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Effective TRIAC treatment of a THRβ-mutated patient with thyroid hormone resistance. Endocrine 2024:10.1007/s12020-024-03795-3. [PMID: 38558372 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-024-03795-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Resistance to thyroid hormone (RTH) is a rare autosomal dominant disease characterized by an alteration of thyroid hormone negative feedback, usually as a consequence of a mutation in the thyroid hormone receptor-b gene (THRβ). It is characterized by high variability of clinical manifestations, ranging from isolated abnormal thyroid function tests without symptoms to severe and impaired clinical conditions. Here we report the case of a woman who was diagnosed with RTHβ when she was 35 years old and was treated with 3,5,3-triiodiothyroacetic acid (TRIAC) because of the onset of clinical symptoms of hyperthyroidism. This therapy has been effective in controlling thyrotoxicosis for 5 years. After this time the patient developed an autoimmune hyperthyroidism, with TSH receptor autoantibodies appearance, which caused a loss of efficacy of the drug in controlling the disease. The development of different pathophysiological mechanisms of thyrotoxicosis, as in this case, could be the reason for both variability of disease manifestations and of loss of response to drug therapy.
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Entropic Bounds on the Average Length of Codes with a Space. ENTROPY (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 26:283. [PMID: 38667837 PMCID: PMC11049551 DOI: 10.3390/e26040283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
We consider the problem of constructing prefix-free codes in which a designated symbol, a space, can only appear at the end of codewords. We provide a linear-time algorithm to construct almost-optimal codes with this property, meaning that their average length differs from the minimum possible by at most one. We obtain our results by uncovering a relation between our class of codes and the class of one-to-one codes. Additionally, we derive upper and lower bounds to the average length of optimal prefix-free codes with a space in terms of the source entropy.
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Delayed onset Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis overlapping Miller-Fisher Syndrome during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Neurol Sci 2023; 44:4179-4182. [PMID: 37889381 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07142-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis (BBE) is a neuroimmunologic disease characterized by the acute onset of external ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and consciousness disturbance, mostly subsequent to an infection. BBE is considered to be a variant of Miller-Fisher syndrome (MFS), which also exhibits external ophthalmoplegia and ataxia but not presenting consciousness alterations. Therefore, these two medical conditions are included in the clinical spectrum of the "Fisher-Bickerstaff syndrome" ( Shahrizaila and Yuki in J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 84(5):576-583) [1]. With regard to the etiopathogenesis, increasing evidence worldwide suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection-enhanced immune response is involved in a wide range of neurological complications such as Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), MFS, acute necrotizing encephalitis (ANE), myelitis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), and, although very rarely, BBE either (Hosseini et al. in Rev Neurosci 32:671-691) [2]. We report a case of a patient affected by delayed onset BBE overlapping MFS during a mild SARS-CoV-2 infection. To the best of our knowledge, similar cases have never been reported.
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Vaccination for seasonal flu, pneumococcal infection, and SARS-CoV-2 in patients with solid tumors: recommendations of the Associazione Italiana di Oncologia Medica (AIOM). ESMO Open 2023; 8:101215. [PMID: 37104930 PMCID: PMC10067463 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2023.101215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with cancer have a well-known and higher risk of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). VPDs may cause severe complications in this setting due to the immune system impairment, malnutrition and oncological treatments. Despite this evidence, vaccination rates are inadequate. The Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) has been involved in vaccination awareness since 2014. Based on a careful review of the available data about the immunogenicity, effectiveness and safety of flu, pneumococcal and anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, we report the recommendations of the Associazione Italiana di Oncologia Medica about these vaccinations in adult patients with solid tumors. AIOM recommends comprehensive education on the issue of VPDs. We believe that a multidisciplinary care model may improve the vaccination coverage in immunocompromised patients. Continued surveillance, implementation of preventive practices and future well-designed immunological prospective studies are essential for a better management of our patients with cancer.
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Treatment and Outcome of COVID-19 after Heart Transplantation: Update from a German Transplant Center. Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2023. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1761750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
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Donor hypernatremia is associated with increased mortality after heart transplantation. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.2161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Donor hypernatremia has been associated with primary graft dysfunction in heart transplantation and is known to be associated with impaired outcome following liver and renal transplantation. However, controversial data exist regarding the impact of sodium deregulation in patient survival after heart transplantation (HTx). This study aims to investigate the impact of donor sodium levels on early morbidity and short- and midterm survival following HTx.
Methods
Between September 2010 and June 2021, a total of n=218 patients underwent HTx in our centre. From those, 214 could be included retrospectively in our study. For each donor, sodium levels were collected and different cut-off levels from 145 to 159 mmol/l were investigated by Kaplan-Meier-analysis. Then, recipients were divided in three groups regarding donor sodium: Normonatremia (133–145 mmol/l, n=73), mild hypernatremia (146–156 mmol/l, n=105) and severe hypernatremia (>156 mmol/l, n=35). Recipient and donor variables were reviewed and compared, including peri- and postoperative characteristics and recipient survival after up to 5 years after transplantation.
Results
All patients were comparable regarding baseline characteristics and perioperative parameters. Regarding early mortality, 90-day survival was significantly reduced only in patients with severe donor hypernatremia in comparison to normonatremia (see table 1 and fifgure 1, 90% vs. 71%, p=0.02), but not in mild normonatremia (89%, p=0.89). 1-year survival was comparable in all groups (p>0.28).
Conclusion
Donor hypernatremia was associated with reduced short-term survival, while correlation weakens >1 year after HTx. Future prospective studies are needed to confirm the possible cut-off value of 156 mmol/l for donor-acceptancy.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Papillary thyroid carcinoma as first and isolated neoplastic disease in a Lynch syndrome family member with a germline MLH1 mutation. Endocrine 2022; 77:199-202. [PMID: 35415788 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03048-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Clinical characteristics and predictors of death among hospitalized patients infected with SARS‑CoV‑2 in Sicily, Italy: A retrospective observational study. Biomed Rep 2022; 16:34. [PMID: 35386106 PMCID: PMC8972844 DOI: 10.3892/br.2022.1517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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Does the Duration of Donor-Stay on ICU Impact the Outcome after Heart Transplantation? Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1742815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Intracerebral Bleeding in Donors Is Associated with Worsened Outcome and Reduced Short- to Midterm Survival of Heart Transplant Recipients. Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1742859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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11
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Post-infectious ST elevation myocardial infarction following a COVID-19 infection: A case report. Biomed Rep 2022; 16:10. [PMID: 34987794 DOI: 10.3892/br.2021.1493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been shown to increase the risk of thrombotic events due to a hypercoagulable state caused by several factors. The case of a 59-year-old woman affected by hypertension and metabolic disorders, treated for a COVID-19 infection who developed cardiac symptoms during the first days of hospitalization is reported. Electrocardiogram analysis and cardiac-ultrasound confirmed ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) diagnosis, thus the patient underwent percutaneous coronary intervention, which was successful. This case highlights a possible association between respiratory infection, particularly SARS-CoV-2 infection, and cardiovascular events, in particular Acute Coronary Syndrome. The association between these phenomena seems related to a range of factors, including a proinflammatory state and the hypoxemia. Moreover, the association amongst SARS-CoV-2 and cardiovascular diseases may be also linked to long-term sequelae. Thus, further studies are required to better understand the multifaceted and severe complications of this disease.
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Assessing the impact of organ-specific lesion dynamics on survival in patients with recurrent urothelial carcinoma treated with atezolizumab or chemotherapy. ESMO Open 2021; 7:100346. [PMID: 34954496 PMCID: PMC8718952 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2021.100346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tumor dynamics typically rely on the sum of the longest diameters (SLD) of target lesions, and ignore heterogeneity in individual lesion dynamics located in different organs. Patients and methods Here we evaluated the benefit of analyzing lesion dynamics in different organs to predict survival in 900 patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma treated with atezolizumab or chemotherapy (IMvigor211 trial). Results Lesion dynamics varied largely across organs, with lymph nodes and lung lesions showing on average a better response to both treatments than those located in the liver and locoregionally. A benefit of atezolizumab was observed on lung and liver lesion dynamics that was attributed to a longer duration of treatment effect as compared to chemotherapy (P value = 0.043 and 0.001, respectively). The impact of lesion dynamics on survival, assessed by a joint model, varied greatly across organs, irrespective of treatment. Liver and locoregional lesion dynamics had a large impact on survival, with an increase of 10 mm of the lesion size increasing the instantaneous risk of death by 12% and 10%, respectively. In comparison, lymph nodes and lung lesions had a lower impact, with a 10-mm increase in the lesion size increasing the instantaneous risk of death by 7% and 5%, respectively. Using our model, we could anticipate the benefit of atezolizumab over chemotherapy as early as 6 months before the end of the study, which is 3 months earlier than a similar model only relying on SLD. Conclusion We showed the interest of organ-level tumor follow-up to better understand and anticipate the treatment effect on survival. Nine hundred metastatic urothelial carcinoma patients from the IMvigor211 phase III trial were treated with atezolizumab versus chemotherapy. A total of 4489 organ-specific measurements were made: 1544 measurements in the lymph, 999 in the lung, 691 in the liver, and 559 locoregionally. Longer treatment effect was observed in the lung (P value = 0.043) and liver (P = 0.001) lesions under atezolizumab compared to chemotherapy. Those with a 10-mm growth of liver lesion had their instantaneous risk of death increased by 12%, compared to 5% in the lung. Treatment effect on overall survival could be predicted based on early organ-specific tumor data 6 months after last patient inclusion.
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Immunological and Clinical Impact of DAA-Mediated HCV Eradication in a Cohort of HIV/HCV Coinfected Patients: Monocentric Italian Experience. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:2336. [PMID: 34943573 PMCID: PMC8700507 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11122336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
HCV treatment became available for all infected patients regardless of their comorbidities, especially for HIV coinfected subjects, leading to an improvement in both clinical and immunological conditions. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of HIV/HCV coinfected patients treated with DAA therapies; data regarding epidemiological, viral-immunological, and hepatic parameters before and after DAA administration have been collected. Drug-drug interactions between DAA and both antiretroviral therapy and non-ART-drugs were also evaluated; the study showed the efficacy of DAA schedules in HCV eradication also for HIV/HCV patients with multiple comorbidities and assuming many different drugs. Principal issues are still represented by drug interactions, pill burden, and patients' compliance. These concerns have to be taken into account, especially in HIV patients for whom the immunological state and ART interactions should always be considered.
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DIRECT‐ACTING ANTIVIRALS AS PRIMARY TREATMENT FOR HCV‐ASSOCIATED INDOLENT NON‐HODGKIN LYMPHOMAS: THE PROSPECTIVE BART STUDY OF THE
FONDAZIONE ITALIANA LINFOMI. Hematol Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/hon.77_2879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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A Case for Electron-Astrophysics. EXPERIMENTAL ASTRONOMY 2021; 54:473-519. [PMID: 36915623 PMCID: PMC9998602 DOI: 10.1007/s10686-021-09761-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The smallest characteristic scales, at which electron dynamics determines the plasma behaviour, are the next frontier in space and astrophysical plasma research. The analysis of astrophysical processes at these scales lies at the heart of the research theme of electron-astrophysics. Electron scales are the ultimate bottleneck for dissipation of plasma turbulence, which is a fundamental process not understood in the electron-kinetic regime. In addition, plasma electrons often play an important role for the spatial transfer of thermal energy due to the high heat flux associated with their velocity distribution. The regulation of this electron heat flux is likewise not understood. By focussing on these and other fundamental electron processes, the research theme of electron-astrophysics links outstanding science questions of great importance to the fields of space physics, astrophysics, and laboratory plasma physics. In this White Paper, submitted to ESA in response to the Voyage 2050 call, we review a selection of these outstanding questions, discuss their importance, and present a roadmap for answering them through novel space-mission concepts.
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POS1105 EFFECTS OF CHOLECALCIFEROL AND CALCIFEDIOL IN OSTEOPOROTIC WOMEN WITH SECONDARY HYPERPARATHYROIDISM DUE TO SEVERE VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY UNDERGOING ZOLEDRONIC ACID TREATMENT: A RANDOMIZED-CONTROLLED TRIAL. Ann Rheum Dis 2021. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-eular.809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background:Secondary hyperparathyroidism (sHPTH) due to vitamin D deficiency impairs the bone mineral density (BMD) response to alendronate,1-2 but the optimal strategy for its correction in postmenopausal osteoporotic women (PMO) about to start zoledronic acid (ZOL) therapy is still unknown.Objectives:To evaluate the effects of cholecalciferol (D3) and calcifediol (25OHD) on serum 25-OH-vitamin D (s25OHD), parathyroid hormone (PTH) and BMD in PMO presenting with sHPTH due to vitamin D deficiency.Methods:PMO with s25OHD <20 ng/ml, sHPTH (PTH >65 pg/ml) and BMD T-score at the lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN) or total hip (TH) < -2.5, or between -1 and -2.5 plus one vertebral/femoral fracture, were randomly assigned to receive a therapeutic dose of D3 (300.000 IU bolus) followed by 175 mcg/weekly of D3, or 175 mcg/weekly of 25OHD alone, 2 months before receiving a single intravenous infusion of ZOL (5 mg). BMD at the LS, FN and TH was assessed at baseline and after one year from ZOL. Serum calcium, PTH and s25OHD were measured at baseline, and 6- and 12-month after ZOL. Adverse and clinical events were ascertained by 3-and 9-month telephone interviews, and by 6- and 12-month clinical evaluation.Results:45 PMO (25OHD N=23, D3 N=22) were enrolled over one year and 32 subjects (mean age ±SD 75±10 years, range 51-91) completed the 1-year of treatment/follow-up (25OHD N=17, D3 N=15). Most PMO discontinued for protocol violation, while three deceased before study ending (25OHD N=1, D3 N=2) for reasons not related to the agents investigated. The baseline characteristics were comparable in both groups. At baseline mean s25OHD (±SE) was 8±1 ng/ml in the 25OHD group and 8±1 ng/ml in the D3 group. The corresponding figures for PTH were 111±6 pg/ml (25OHD) and 117±5 pg/ml (D3). Mean s25OHD (±SE) increased in both groups at 6- and 12-month, being significantly greater in the 25OHD group (12-month, 56±2 ng/ml) compared to the D3 group (12-month, 34±2 ng/ml, P<.001) at both time points (Figure 1). PTH (mean ±SE) decreased in both groups, being significantly lower in the 25OHD group at 12-month (25OHD 46±6 pg/ml versus D3 70±6 pg/ml, P=.007), as shown in Figure 1. BMD at the LS, FN and TH increased in both groups (with significant increases versus baseline only at the FN) without significant differences between s25OHD and D3. In PMO receiving D3 serum calcium remained stable over time, while those receiving s25OHD demonstrated a significant increase of serum calcium, with 2 PMO presenting a value close to the upper limit of the reference range at 12-month. No patient reported incident fractures or adverse events.Conclusion:Calcifediol 175 mcg weekly appears more potent in improving s25OHD and decreasing PTH concentrations compared to cholecalciferol therapeutic dose (300’000 IU) plus 175 mcg weekly in PMO presenting with sHPTH due to severe vitamin D deficiency about to start ZOL therapy. Further studies are warranted to clarify implications on BMD improvements on the long-term of similar 25OHD and D3 regimens.References:[1]Barone A et al., J Am Geriatr Soc 2007.[2]Kincse G et al., BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2012.Disclosure of Interests:Giulia Botticella: None declared, Monica Pizzonia: None declared, Barbara Cossu: None declared, Roberta Bruno: None declared, Dario Camellino Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Celgene, Janssen-Cilag, Eli Lilly, Medac, Mylan, Novartis, and Sanofi, outside the submitted work, Giuseppe Girasole Speakers bureau: Abiogen Pharma and Novartis, outside the submitted work, Andrea Giusti Speakers bureau: UCB, Amgen, Kyowa Kirin, Abiogen Pharma, and Eli Lilly, outside the submitted work, Consultant of: EffRx and Abiogen Pharma, outside the submitted work, Mario Pedrazzoni: None declared, Simona Alexovits: None declared, Franco Pleitavino: None declared, Federico Santolini: None declared, Alessio Nencioni: None declared, Gerolamo Bianchi Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Abiogen Pharma, Amgen, BMS, Celgene, Eli Lilly, GSK, Janssen-Cilag, Medac, MSD, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Sanofi, Genzyme, and Servier, outside the submitted work.
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Treatment of Donor-Specific Antibody Mediated Rejection after Heart Transplantation by IGM-Enriched Human Intravenous Immunoglobulin. J Heart Lung Transplant 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2021.01.837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Use of intralesional cidofovir in the recurrent respiratory papillomatosis: a review of the literature. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:956-962. [PMID: 32017003 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202001_20081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is characterized by exophytic, benign, and papillary lesions infected by the virus in the epithelium of the upper aerodigestive tract. RRP is caused by persistent infection of the respiratory epithelium by human papillomavirus (HPV) HPV6 and-11. The clinical course of RRP is unpredictable, frequently relapsing, and may be lifelong. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the use of intralesional Cidofovir in the treatment of RRP. PATIENTS AND METHODS We have selected articles on the use of cidofovir as adjuvant therapy in laryngeal papillomatosis. We reviewed 20 reports that enrolled 185 patients with "adult onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis" (AORRP) and 85 patients with "juvenile onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis" (JORRP). We evaluated concentration of cidofovir, number of injections, injection interval, therapeutic response, side effects, and progression to dysplasia. RESULTS The mean concentration of cidofovir was 7.5 mg/ml at injection. The mean number of injections per patient is 6 with 26 days between injections. The percentage of patients with dysplasia after use of cidofovir is 1.48%. The AORRP response to cidofovir is better with a 74% complete response rate, compared to 56.5% of the JORRP. CONCLUSIONS Intralesion use of cidofovir has a good adjuvant action in RRP increasing the complete remission of the disease. The treatment does not increase the risk of laryngeal dysplasia.
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SARS-CoV-2 viability on different surfaces after gaseous ozone treatment: a preliminary evaluation. J Hosp Infect 2021; 110:33-36. [PMID: 33516798 PMCID: PMC7842195 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2021.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a global health threat with a huge number of confirmed cases and deaths all over the world. Human-to-human transmission via respiratory droplets and contact with aerosol-infected surfaces are the major routes of virus spread. Because SARS-CoV-2 can remain in the air and on surfaces from several hours to several days, disinfection of frequently touched surfaces and critical rooms, in addition to observing individual hygiene tips, is required to reduce the virus spreading. Here we report on an investigation into the use of gaseous ozone as a potentially effective sanitizing method against the new coronavirus.
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Heart Transplantation in an Aging Society: Impact of Recipient Age on Postoperative Outcome. Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1725802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Treatment of Donor-Specific Antibody-Mediated Rejection After Heart Transplantation by IGM-Enriched Human Intravenous Immunoglobulin. Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1725614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Low risk for SARS-CoV2 symptomatic infection and early complications in paediatric patients during the ongoing CoVID19 epidemics in Lombardy. Clin Microbiol Infect 2020; 26:1569-1571. [PMID: 32535148 PMCID: PMC7289743 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2020.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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COVID-19: what if the brain had a role in causing the deaths? Eur J Neurol 2020; 27:e41-e42. [PMID: 32333819 PMCID: PMC7267268 DOI: 10.1111/ene.14275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Rapid response to COVID-19 outbreak in Northern Italy: how to convert a classic infectious disease ward into a COVID-19 response centre. J Hosp Infect 2020; 105:S0195-6701(20)30119-5. [PMID: 32205162 PMCID: PMC7118420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2020.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Circulating angiopoietin-like protein 2 levels are associated with decreased renal function in HIV + subjects on cART: A potential marker of kidney disease. Biomed Rep 2019; 10:140-144. [PMID: 30675354 DOI: 10.3892/br.2019.1183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected individuals, even in the antiretroviral therapy (ART) era. Inflammatory cytokines and adipokines have been suggested to play a role in the development of CKD. The aim of the present study was to examine the circulating levels of a novel proinflammatory cytokine, angiopoietin-like protein 2 (ANGPTL2), in a cohort of 72 HIV-positive subjects on ART. HIV-positive patients were on cART for at least one year. Urine and blood samples were collected. Various factors were analyzed including body mass index (BMI), smoking, and presence/treatment for comorbidities such as diabetes. The estimated glomerular filtration rate was calculated by using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation. Plasma samples obtained were stored and used to measure sCD14 and ANGPTL2 levels. Data were presented as mean (± standard deviation) or median (interquartile range) for continuous variables. Categorical variables were expressed as number (%). Variables were compared using Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney test, or χ2 test. The results showed an independent negative association between plasma ANGPTL2 and CKD-EPI values. Further prospective studies on larger cohorts are needed to evaluate the pathogenetic role of ANGPTL2 as well as its use as a diagnostic marker of renal dysfunction.
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Rapid emergence of cryptococcal fungemia, Mycobacterium chelonae vertebral osteomyelitis and gastro intestinal stromal tumor in a young HIV late presenter: a case report. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:693. [PMID: 30587143 PMCID: PMC6307234 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3573-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Highly active antiretroviral therapy has significantly changed the natural history of HIV infection, leading to a dramatic reduction of HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Late Presenters, Very Late Presenters and AIDS presenters still represent, also in Europe, including Italy, a huge challenge in terms of diagnostic and therapeutic management. Case presentation A 35-year-old male with a history of fever and back pain. HIV test resulted positive with a high HIV Viral Load and a very low T-CD4 number of cells (5 cells/mm3). Imaging investigations revealed multiple vertebral and pulmonary lesions together with abdominal and thoracic lymphadenopathy. Blood cultures were positive for Cryptococcus neoformans and for Staphylococcus haemolyticus. Lymphnode biopsy resulted positive in PCR for Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacteria (Mycobacterium chelonae). A gastric biopsy also revealed a GIST. The patient also had CMV DNA positive. Although we performed antiretroviral therapy and specific-therapies for each disease, he was transferred to intensive care unit where he died due to an Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Conclusion The reported case is unusual due to the relevant number of opportunistic diseases (both infectious and tumoral) emerging not long after the HIV infection had been diagnosed. Late presenters HIV patients and AIDS presenters still represent a challenge, which is often too complex for clinicians to deal with. In spite of proper management, the risk of suboptimal results cannot be excluded. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-018-3573-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Pre-treatment EGFR-T790M subclones in lung adenocarcinoma harboring activating mutation of EGFR: A positive prognostic factor for survival? Ann Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdy292.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Cognitive, physical, and mental health outcomes between long-term cannabis and tobacco users. Addict Behav 2018; 79:178-188. [PMID: 29291509 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis intoxication adversely affects health, yet persistent effects following short-term abstinence in long-term cannabis users are unclear. This matched-subjects, cross-sectional study compared health outcomes of long-term cannabis and long-term tobacco-only users, relative to population norms. METHODS Nineteen long-term (mean 32.3years of use, mean age 55.7years), abstinent (mean 15h) cannabis users and 16 long-term tobacco users (mean 37.1years of use, mean age 52.9years), matched for age, educational attainment, and lifetime tobacco consumption, were compared on measures of learning and memory, response inhibition, information-processing, sustained attention, executive control, and mental and physical health. RESULTS Cannabis users exhibited poorer overall learning and delayed recall and greater interference and forgetting than tobacco users, and exhibited poorer recall than norms. Inhibition and executive control were similar between groups, but cannabis users had slower reaction times during information processing and sustained attention tasks. Cannabis users had superior health satisfaction and psychological, somatic, and general health than tobacco users and had similar mental and physical health to norms whilst tobacco users had greater stress, role limitations from emotional problems, and poorer health satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Long-term cannabis users may exhibit deficits in some cognitive domains despite short-term abstinence and may therefore benefit from interventions to improve cognitive performance. Tobacco alone may contribute to adverse mental and physical health outcomes, which requires appropriate control in future studies.
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Population ecology of Jujubinus striatus and Jujubinus exasperatus (Gastropoda: Trochidae) in a Posidonia oceanica seagrass bed. THE EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2017.1420828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Abstract
Risky paternal alcohol use is associated with maternal alcohol use during pregnancy, poor fetal and infant outcomes, domestic violence and depression. This study developed 30 SMS text messages about alcohol for fathers who drink at risky levels. The text messages were developed using two motivational styles: messages presented in a second person voice and the same messages presented in a child's voice. Fifty-one fathers were recruited through social media to complete an online survey rating the SMS text messages for message importance and likelihood of seeking further information and measuring risky alcohol use and psychosocial distress. Seventeen participants then participated in a semi-structured qualitative interview. Fathers rated the text messages presented in the child's voice as more important than messages presented in the second person. Qualitative data supported survey results that motivational SMS text messages could provide an acceptable way to raise awareness of risky alcohol consumption for future fathers.
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P1.01-015 Crizotinib in ROS1 Rearranged or MET Deregulated Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Final Results of the METROS Trial. J Thorac Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2017.09.669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Crizotinib in ROS1 rearranged or MET deregulated non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC): final results of the METROS trial. Ann Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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[PP.19.24] DETERMINANTS OF INAPPROPRIATELY HIGH PULSE WAVE VELOCITY IN HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS. J Hypertens 2017. [DOI: 10.1097/01.hjh.0000523714.41136.ad] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Recommendations for screening, monitoring, prevention, prophylaxis and therapy of hepatitis B virus reactivation in patients with haematologic malignancies and patients who underwent haematologic stem cell transplantation-a position paper. Clin Microbiol Infect 2017; 23:935-940. [PMID: 28668466 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2017.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
SCOPE Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection reactivation is associated with high morbidity and mortality in patients with haematologic malignancy and/or haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, information on this issue is limited. The scope of this position paper is to provide recommendations on HBV screening, monitoring, prophylaxis, treatment and vaccination in the patients described above. METHODS These recommendations were developed from one meeting of experts attended by different Italian scientific societies as well as from a systematic literature review (of articles published through December 31, 2016) on HBV infection in haematologic patients and in patients who underwent haematopoietic stem cell transplantation published in the same issue of the journal. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology was used to assess each recommendation's quality. QUESTIONS ADDRESSED These recommendations provide the answers to the following questions: (a) HBV screening and monitoring: Who should be screened before chemotherapy? Which screening tests should be used? Should HBV-DNA detection be used to monitor HBV reactivation before starting antivirals? What is the best timeline to monitor HBV reactivation? (b) Prophylaxis in HBsAg-positive patients: Which antiviral drugs should be used to treat HBsAg-positive patients? How long should antiviral prophylaxis be provided to HBsAg-positive patients? (c) Prophylaxis in patients with resolved HBV infection: Which patients with resolved HBV infection should receive antiviral prophylaxis? Which antiviral drug should be used? How long should antiviral prophylaxis be provided? (d) HBV infection management strategy in autologous (auto-HSCT) and allogeneic HSCT (allo-HSCT): Which HSCT recipients should receive antiviral prophylaxis? Which antiviral drug should be used? How long should antiviral prophylaxis be provided? (e) Choice of antiviral drugs in the treatment of HBV reactivation: Should third-generation anti-HBV drugs be preferred to first- or second-generation antiviral drugs in the treatment of HBV reactivation with or without hepatitis flare in haematologic patients? (f) Immunization against HBV in patients with haematologic malignancies and/or patients who underwent HSCT: Should these patients be vaccinated? Which HBV vaccination schedule should be adopted? RECOMMENDATIONS Haematologic patients should be screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) plus anti-hepatitis B core protein (HBc), and HBV DNA before chemotherapy. HBV DNA levels should be monitored monthly in all HBV-positive patients who do not receive prophylaxis. HBsAg-positive haematologic patients and those undergoing HSCT should receive third-generation antiviral therapy as prophylaxis. Anti-HBc-positive lymphoma patients and those receiving HSCT should receive antiviral prophylaxis. All HBV-negative haematologic patients should be vaccinated for HBV. The acquisition of data from well-designed studies is desirable in the near future.
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Trends in PIEDs use among male clients of needle-syringe programs in Queensland, Australia; 2007-2015. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017. [PMID: 28651113 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Atezolizumab in Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2017; 102:305-312. [PMID: 27981577 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Atezolizumab, a humanized immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) monoclonal antibody targeting human programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), is US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved in metastatic urothelial carcinoma (MUC) and is being investigated in various malignancies. This analysis based upon 906 patients from two phase I and one phase II MUC studies, is the first report of the clinical pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of atezolizumab. Atezolizumab exhibited linear PK over a dose range of 1-20 mg/kg, including the labeled 1,200 mg dose. The clearance, volume of distribution, and terminal half-life estimates from population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) analysis of 0.200 L/day, 6.91 L, and 27 days, respectively, were as expected for an IgG1. Exposure-response analyses did not identify statistically significant relationships with either objective response rate or adverse events of grades 3-5 or of special interest. None of the statistically significant covariates from PopPK (body weight, gender, antitherapeutic antibody, albumin, and tumor burden) would require dose adjustment.
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INTERFERON-FREE ANTIVIRAL TREATMENT IN B-CELL LYMPHOPROLIFERATIVE DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH CHRONIC HEPATITIS-C VIRUS INFECTION. Hematol Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/hon.2437_135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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DIRECT-ACTING ANTIVIRALS DURING OR AFTER IMMUNO-CHEMOTHERAPY IN HEPATITIS C VIRUS-ASSOCIATED DIFFUSE LARGE B-CELL LYMPHOMAS. Hematol Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/hon.2438_57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Model-Based Estimates of Tumor Growth Inhibition Metrics Are Time-Independent: A Reply to Mistry. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2017; 6:225. [PMID: 27997740 PMCID: PMC5397555 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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The impact of rifaximin in the prevention of bacterial infections in cirrhosis. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2017; 21:1151-1158. [PMID: 28338174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bacterial infections are a leading factor in the progression from compensated to decompensated cirrhosis, with consequent worsening of the prognosis, and concerted efforts have been made to reduce infections and improve the survival rate of these patients. We retrospectively investigated the rate of infections in hospitalized cirrhotic patients under treatment with rifaximin. PATIENTS AND METHODS We enrolled 649 patients whose clinical and personal data, prescribed therapy, microbiological findings and laboratory tests were collected from previous discharge letters and our institution database. The efficacy of rifaximin in preventing several types infection was evaluated by comparing outcomes for rifaximin-treated patients vs patients receiving no antibiotic treatment. RESULTS The risk of developing selected bacterial infections was significantly lower in patients treated with rifaximin (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.20-0.40, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Continuous treatment with rifaximin may prevent bacterial infections in cirrhotic patients.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents are a major supplier of alcohol to adolescents, yet there is limited research examining the impact of this on adolescent alcohol use. This study investigates associations between parental supply of alcohol, supply from other sources, and adolescent drinking, adjusting for child, parent, family and peer variables. METHOD A cohort of 1927 adolescents was surveyed annually from 2010 to 2014. Measures include: consumption of whole drinks; binge drinking (>4 standard drinks on any occasion); parental supply of alcohol; supply from other sources; child, parent, family and peer covariates. RESULTS After adjustment, adolescents supplied alcohol by parents had higher odds of drinking whole beverages [odds ratio (OR) 1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.33-2.45] than those not supplied by parents. However, parental supply was not associated with bingeing, and those supplied alcohol by parents typically consumed fewer drinks per occasion (incidence rate ratio 0.86, 95% CI 0.77-0.96) than adolescents supplied only from other sources. Adolescents obtaining alcohol from non-parental sources had increased odds of drinking whole beverages (OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.86-3.45) and bingeing (OR 3.51, 95% CI 2.53-4.87). CONCLUSIONS Parental supply of alcohol to adolescents was associated with increased risk of drinking, but not bingeing. These parentally-supplied children also consumed fewer drinks on a typical drinking occasion. Adolescents supplied alcohol from non-parental sources had greater odds of drinking and bingeing. Further follow-up is necessary to determine whether these patterns continue, and to examine alcohol-related harm trajectories. Parents should be advised that supply of alcohol may increase children's drinking.
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Treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C infection in Lombardia: a report by the Lombardia Hepatitis Network. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2016; 20:17-19. [PMID: 28083863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The arrival of potent directly acting antivirals (DAAs) for the treatment of chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection was a challenge for the regional health system of the Lombardia Region. Lombardia represents roughly 8% of the Italian territory but includes nearly 16% of the Italian population. In 2014, nearly 37,600 HCV patients were routinely followed-up in liver centers across the region; nearly 16,000 were classified as having advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis (Metavir F3-F4). The creation of a regional network was necessary to ensure uniformity in treatment access and treatment management. The first database analysis of the Lombardia Hepatitis Network was conducted in January 2016, and included data on 2432 patients who had received treatment from December 2014 to December 2015. The most prevalent HCV genotypes were HCV-1 found in 63% and HCV-3 found in 17%. Overall 90.4% patients achieved an SVR, SVR rates were 92.9% in HCV-1, 89.3% in HCV-2, 81.1% in HCV-3 and 88.9% in HCV-4.
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Hashimoto's encephalopathy (HE): an under diagnosed autoimmune-mediated encephalopathy. Endocrine 2016; 54:572-573. [PMID: 26649860 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-015-0806-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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The Prediction of Thermal Loads in Building by Means of the EN ISO 13790 Dynamic Model: A Comparison with TRNSYS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.egypro.2016.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Management of hepatitis C positive patients undergoing active treatment for malignancies: a position paper from the Associazione Italiana di Oncologia Medica (AIOM) and the Società Italiana di Malattie Infettive e Tropicali (SIMIT). Ann Oncol 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdw345.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Simulations to Predict Clinical Trial Outcome of Bevacizumab Plus Chemotherapy vs. Chemotherapy Alone in Patients With First-Line Gastric Cancer and Elevated Plasma VEGF-A. CPT-PHARMACOMETRICS & SYSTEMS PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 5:352-8. [PMID: 27404946 PMCID: PMC4961078 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
To simulate clinical trials to assess overall survival (OS) benefit of bevacizumab in combination with chemotherapy in selected patients with gastric cancer (GC), a modeling framework linking OS with tumor growth inhibition (TGI) metrics and baseline patient characteristics was developed. Various TGI metrics were estimated using TGI models and data from two phase III studies comparing bevacizumab plus chemotherapy vs. chemotherapy as first‐line therapy in 976 GC patients. Time‐to‐tumor‐growth (TTG) was the best TGI metric to predict OS. TTG, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, albumin level, and Asian ethnicity were significant covariates in the final OS model. The model correctly predicted a decreased hazard ratio favorable to bevacizumab in patients with high baseline plasma VEGF‐A above the median of 113.4 ng/L. Based on trial simulations, in trials enrolling patients with elevated baseline plasma VEGF‐A (500 patients per arm), the expected hazard ratio was 0.82 (95% prediction interval: 0.70–0.95), independent of ethnicity.
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210P: Digital gene expression profiling to separate malignant pleural mesothelioma from benign reactive mesothelial hyperplasia. J Thorac Oncol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s1556-0864(16)30317-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Prioritization of high-cost new drugs for HCV: making sustainability ethical. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2016; 20:1044-1051. [PMID: 27049255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major health problem worldwide. Chronic HCV infection may in the long run cause cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma, with an ultimate disease burden of at least 350,000 deaths per year worldwide. The new generation of highly effective direct acting antivirals (DAA) to treat HCV infection brings major promises to infected patients in terms of exceedingly high rates of sustained virological response (SVR) but also of tolerability, allowing even the sickest patients to be treated. Even in the face of the excellent safety and efficacy and wide theoretical applicability of these regimens, their introduction is currently facing cost and access issues denying their use to many patients in need. Health systems in all countries are facing a huge problem of distributive justice, since while they should guarantee individual rights, among which the right to health in its broader sense, therefore not limited to healing, but extended to quality of life, they must also grant equal access to the healthcare resources and keep the distribution system sustainable. In the face of a disease with a relatively unpredictable course, where many but not of all chronically infected will eventually die of liver disease, selective allocation of this costly resource is debatable. In most countries the favorite solution has been a stratification of patients for prioritization of treatment, which means allowing Interferon-free DAA treatment only in patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, while keeping on hold persons with lesser stages of liver disease. In this report, we will perform an ethical assessment addressing the issues linked to access to new therapies, prioritization and eligibility criteria, analyzing the meaning of the term "distributive justice" and the different approaches that can guide us (individualistic libertarianism, social utilitarianism and egalitarianism) on this specific matter. Even if over time the price of new DAA will be reduced through competition and eventual patent expiration, the phenomenon of high drug costs will go on in the next decades and we need adequate tools to face the problems of distributive justice that come with it.
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Small Size Single-axis PV Trackers: Control Strategies and System Layout for Energy Optimization. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.egypro.2015.11.802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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