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Lu Y, Qiu M, Pan S, Basharat Z, Zippi M, Fiorino S, Hong W. A comparison of interpretable XGBoost and artificial neural network model for the prediction of severe acute pancreatitis. Pol Arch Intern Med 2024:16700. [PMID: 38501720 DOI: 10.20452/pamw.16700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute pancreatitis (AP) that progresses to persistent organ failure is defined as severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) which has a relatively high mortality. Early establishment of a prediction model is crucial for the improvement of disease prognosis. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and artificial neural network model (ANN) for predicting SAP. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 648 patients with AP were enrolled. XGBoost and ANN models were developed and valuated in the training set (519 patients) and test set (129 patients), respectively. The accuracy and results of XGBoost and ANN models were evaluated both by area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) and the area under precision recall curve. RESULTS 15 variables were selected for model construction through univariable analysis. The AUCs of XGBoost model and ANN model in five-fold cross-validation of the training set were 0.92 (95%CI, 0.87-0.97) and 0.86 (95%CI, 0.78-0.92), respectively. AUCs of XGBoost model and ANN model for the test set were 0.93 (95%CI, 0.85-1.00) and 0.87 (95%CI, 0.79-0.96). XGBoost outperformed ANN in terms of both diagnostic accuracy and the area under the precision recall curve. Individualized prediction by XGBoost model was explained by local interpretable model-agnostic explanations (LIME) plot. CONCLUSIONS An interpretable XGBoost model showed higher discriminatory efficiency in predicting SAP compared to ANN.
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Mattioli LB, Frosini M, Corazza I, Fiorino S, Zippi M, Micucci M, Budriesi R. Long COVID-19 gastrointestinal related disorders and traditional Chinese medicine: A network target-based approach. Phytother Res 2024. [PMID: 38421118 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The significant number of individuals impacted by the pandemic makes prolonged symptoms after COVID-19 a matter of considerable concern. These are numerous and affect multiple organ systems. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged gastrointestinal issues are a crucial part of post-COVID-19 syndrome. The resulting disruption of homeostasis underscores the need for a therapeutic approach based on compounds that can simultaneously affect more than one target/node. The present review aimed to check for nutraceuticals possessing multiple molecular mechanisms helpful in relieving Long COVID-19-specific gastrointestinal symptoms. Specific plants used in Keywords Chinese Medicine (TCM) expected to be included in the WHO Global Medical Compendium were selected based on the following criteria: (1) they are widely used in the Western world as natural remedies and complementary medicine adjuvants; (2) their import and trade are regulated by specific laws that ensure quality and safety (3) have the potential to be beneficial in alleviating intestinal issues associated with Long COVID-19. Searches were performed in PubMed, Elsevier, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, and ResearchGate up to 2023. Cinnamomum cassia, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Magnolia officinalis, Poria cocos, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Scutellaria baicalensis, and Zingiber officinalis were identified as the most promising for their potential impact on inflammation and oxidative stress. Based on the molecular mechanisms of the phytocomplexes and isolated compounds of the considered plants, their clinical use may lead to benefits in gastrointestinal diseases associated with Long COVID-19, thanks to a multiorgan and multitarget approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Beatrice Mattioli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Food Chemistry and Nutraceutical Lab, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Frosini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ivan Corazza
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Azienda USL, Budrio Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology & Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Micucci
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Roberta Budriesi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Food Chemistry and Nutraceutical Lab, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Zippi M, Fiorino S, Hong W, de Biase D, Gallo CG, Grottesi A, Centorame A, Crispino P. Post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy: A systematic review. World J Meta-Anal 2023; 11:229-237. [DOI: 10.13105/wjma.v11.i5.229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent and still ongoing pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) entailed various long-term complications, including post-infectious cholangiopathy.
AIM To identify the available studies concerning post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cholangiopathy.
METHODS An extensive bibliographical search was carried out in PubMed and in Cochrane Library to identify the articles (retrospective and prospective studies, cohort studies, case series and case reports) published between January 1, 2020 and August 22, 2022, using both MeSH terms and free-language keywords: cholangiopathy; COVID-19; post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy; SARS-CoV-2.
RESULTS Thirteen studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, which included 64 patients suffering from this condition. The patients were male in 82.8% of cases. Liver transplant was executed in 6 patients and scheduled in 7 patients, while 2 patients refused the surgical approach. Therefore in 23.4% of the cases, performing this procedure appeared to be necessary.
CONCLUSION This review has revealed that generally the involvement of the liver in the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection is mild and transient, inducing cholestasis of cholangiocytes but can also be severe enough to cause organ failure in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | | | - Alfonso Grottesi
- Unit of General Surgery, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Crispino
- Unit of Emergency Medicine, Santa Maria Goretti Hospital, Latina 04100, Italy
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Zippi M, Fiorino S, Hong W, de Biase D, Gallo CG, Grottesi A, Centorame A, Crispino P. Post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy: A systematic review. World J Meta-Anal 2023; 11:29-37. [DOI: 10.13105/wjma.v11.i1.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent and still ongoing pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) entailed various long-term complications, including post-infectious cholangiopathy.
AIM To identify the available studies concerning post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cholangiopathy.
METHODS An extensive bibliographical search was carried out in PubMed and in Cochrane Library to identify the articles (retrospective and prospective studies, cohort studies, case series and case reports) published between January 1, 2020 and August 22, 2022, using both MeSH terms and free-language keywords: cholangiopathy; COVID-19; post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy; SARS-CoV-2.
RESULTS Thirteen studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, which included 64 patients suffering from this condition. The patients were male in 82.8% of cases. Liver transplant was executed in 6 patients and scheduled in 7 patients, while 2 patients refused the surgical approach. Therefore in 23.4% of the cases, performing this procedure appeared to be necessary.
CONCLUSION This review has revealed that generally the involvement of the liver in the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection is mild and transient, inducing cholestasis of cholangiocytes but can also be severe enough to cause organ failure in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40126, Italy
| | | | - Alfonso Grottesi
- Unit of General Surgery, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Crispino
- Unit of Emergency Medicine, Santa Maria Goretti Hospital, Latina 04100, Italy
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Fiorino S, Carusi A, Hong W, Cernuschi P, Gallo CG, Ferrara E, Maloberti T, Visani M, Lari F, de Biase D, Zippi M. SARS-CoV-2 vaccines: What we know, what we can do to improve them and what we could learn from other well-known viruses. AIMS Microbiol 2022; 8:422-453. [PMID: 36694588 PMCID: PMC9834075 DOI: 10.3934/microbiol.2022029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent weeks, the rate of SARS-CoV-2 infections has been progressively increasing all over the globe, even in countries where vaccination programs have been strongly implemented. In these regions in 2021, a reduction in the number of hospitalizations and deaths compared to 2020 was observed. This decrease is certainly associated with the introduction of vaccination measures. The process of the development of effective vaccines represents an important challenge. Overall, the breakthrough infections occurring in vaccinated subjects are in most cases less severe than those observed in unvaccinated individuals. This review examines the factors affecting the immunogenicity of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 and the possible role of nutrients in modulating the response of distinct immune cells to the vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy,* Correspondence:
| | - Andrea Carusi
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang, The People's Republic of China
| | - Paolo Cernuschi
- Internal Medicine Unit, Quisana Private Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | - Thais Maloberti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy,Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Lari
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy,Solid Tumor Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
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6
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Tateo F, Fiorino S, Peruzzo L, Zippi M, De Biase D, Lari F, Melucci D. Effects of environmental parameters and their interactions on the spreading of SARS-CoV-2 in North Italy under different social restrictions. A new approach based on multivariate analysis. Environ Res 2022; 210:112921. [PMID: 35150709 PMCID: PMC8828377 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.112921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In 2020 North Italy suffered the SARS-CoV-2-related pandemic with a high number of deaths and hospitalization. The effect of atmospheric parameters on the amount of hospital admissions (temperature, solar radiation, particulate matter, relative humidity and wind speed) is studied through about 8 months (May-December). Two periods are considered depending on different conditions: a) low incidence of COVID-19 and very few regulations concerning personal mobility and protection ("free/summer period"); b) increasing incidence of disease, social restrictions and use of personal protections ("confined/autumn period"). The "hospitalized people in medical area wards/100000 residents" was used as a reliable measure of COVID-19 spreading and load on the sanitary system. We developed a chemometric approach (multiple linear regression analysis) using the daily incidence of hospitalizations as a function of the single independent variables and of their products (interactions). Eight administrative domains were considered (altogether 26 million inhabitants) to account for relatively homogeneous territorial and social conditions. The obtained models very significantly match the daily variation of hospitalizations, during the two periods. Under the confined/autumn period, the effect of non-pharmacologic measures (social distances, personal protection, etc.) possibly attenuates the virus diffusion despite environmental factors. On the contrary, in the free/summer conditions the effects of atmospheric parameters are very significant through all the areas. Particulate matter matches the growth of hospitalizations in areas with low chronic particulate pollution. Fewer hospitalizations strongly correspond to higher temperature and solar radiation. Relative humidity plays the same role, but with a lesser extent. The interaction between solar radiation and high temperature is also highly significant and represents surprising evidence. The solar radiation alone and combined with high temperature exert an anti-SARS-CoV-2 effect, via both the direct inactivation of virions and the stimulation of vitamin D synthesis, improving immune system function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Tateo
- Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources (IGG), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via G. Gradenigo, 6, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Azienda USL, Via Benni, 44, 40054, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Peruzzo
- Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources (IGG), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via G. Gradenigo, 6, 35131, Padova, Italy.
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Via dei Monti Tiburtini 385, 00157, Rome, Italy
| | - Dario De Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Lari
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Azienda USL, Via Benni, 44, 40054, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dora Melucci
- Department of Chemistry Ciamician, University of Bologna, Via Selmi, 2, 40126, Bologna, Italy
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Malvi D, Vasuri F, Maloberti T, Sanza V, De Leo A, Fornelli A, Masetti M, Benini C, Lombardi R, Offi MF, Di Marco M, Ravaioli M, Fiorino S, Franceschi E, Brandes AA, Jovine E, D’Errico A, Tallini G, de Biase D. Molecular Characterization of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Using a Next-Generation Sequencing Custom-Designed Multigene Panel. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12051058. [PMID: 35626213 PMCID: PMC9139796 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the efforts made in the management of PDAC, the 5-year relative survival rate of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) still remains very low (10%). To date, precision oncology is far from being ready to be applied in cases of PDAC, although studies exploring the molecular and genetic alterations have been conducted, and the genomic landscape of PDAC has been characterized. This study aimed to apply a next-generation sequencing (NGS) laboratory-developed multigene panel to PDAC samples to find molecular alterations that could be associated with histopathological features and clinical outcomes. A total of 68 PDACs were characterized by using a laboratory-developed multigene NGS panel. KRAS and TP53 mutations were the more frequent alterations in 75.0% and 44.6% of cases, respectively. In the majority (58.7%) of specimens, more than one mutation was detected, mainly in KRAS and TP53 genes. KRAS mutation was significantly associated with a shorter time in tumor recurrence compared with KRAS wild-type tumors. Intriguingly, KRAS wild-type cases had a better short-term prognosis despite the lymph node status. In conclusion, our work highlights that the combination of KRAS mutation with the age of the patient and the lymph node status may help in predicting the outcome in PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Malvi
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (D.M.); (F.V.); (A.D.)
| | - Francesco Vasuri
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (D.M.); (F.V.); (A.D.)
| | - Thais Maloberti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (G.T.)
- Division of Molecular Pathology, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Viviana Sanza
- Division of Molecular Pathology, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Antonio De Leo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (G.T.)
- Division of Molecular Pathology, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Azienda USL, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Michele Masetti
- Department of General Surgery, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (C.B.); (R.L.); (M.F.O.); (E.J.)
| | - Claudia Benini
- Department of General Surgery, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (C.B.); (R.L.); (M.F.O.); (E.J.)
| | - Raffaele Lombardi
- Department of General Surgery, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (C.B.); (R.L.); (M.F.O.); (E.J.)
| | - Maria Fortuna Offi
- Department of General Surgery, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (C.B.); (R.L.); (M.F.O.); (E.J.)
| | - Mariacristina Di Marco
- Division of Medical Oncology, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Department of Specialized, Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Ravaioli
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL di Bologna, 40054 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Enrico Franceschi
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCSS Istituto di Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (E.F.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Alba A. Brandes
- Nervous System Medical Oncology Department, IRCSS Istituto di Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, 40139 Bologna, Italy; (E.F.); (A.A.B.)
| | - Elio Jovine
- Department of General Surgery, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Maggiore Hospital, 40133 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (C.B.); (R.L.); (M.F.O.); (E.J.)
| | - Antonietta D’Errico
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (D.M.); (F.V.); (A.D.)
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (T.M.); (A.D.L.); (G.T.)
- Division of Molecular Pathology, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Gallo CG, Fiorino S, Posabella G, Antonacci D, Tropeano A, Pausini E, Pausini C, Guarniero T, Hong W, Giampieri E, Corazza I, Loiacono R, Loggi E, de Biase D, Zippi M, Lari F, Zancanaro M. The function of specialized pro-resolving endogenous lipid mediators, vitamins, and other micronutrients in the control of the inflammatory processes: Possible role in patients with SARS-CoV-2 related infection. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2022; 159:106619. [PMID: 35032665 PMCID: PMC8752446 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2022.106619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is an essential protective response against harmful stimuli, such as invading pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. Physiological inflammation eliminates pathogens and promotes tissue repair and healing. Effective immune response in humans depends on a tightly regulated balance among inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mechanisms involving both innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. Excessive inflammation can become pathological and induce detrimental effects. If this process is not self-limited, an inappropriate remodeling of the tissues and organs can occur and lead to the onset of chronic degenerative diseases. A wide spectrum of infectious and non-infectious agents may activate the inflammation, via the release of mediators and cytokines by distinct subtypes of lymphocytes and macrophages. Several molecular mechanisms regulate the onset, progression, and resolution of inflammation. All these steps, even the termination of this process, are active and not passive events. In particular, a complex interplay exists between mediators (belonging to the group of Eicosanoids), which induce the beginning of inflammation, such as Prostaglandins (PGE2), Leukotrienes (LT), and thromboxane A2 (TXA2), and molecules which display a key role in counteracting this process and in promoting its proper resolution. The latter group of mediators includes: ω-6 arachidonic acid (AA)-derived metabolites, such as Lipoxins (LXs), ω -3 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-derived mediators, such as E-series Resolvins (RvEs), and ω -3 docosahexaenoic (DHA)-derived mediators, such as D-series Resolvins (RvDs), Protectins (PDs) and Maresins (MaRs). Overall, these mediators are defined as specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). Reduced synthesis of these molecules may lead to uncontrolled inflammation with possible harmful effects. ω-3 fatty acids are widely used in clinical practice as rather inexpensive, safe, readily available supplemental therapy. Taking advantage of this evidence, several researchers are suggesting that SPMs may have beneficial effects in the complementary treatment of patients with severe forms of SARS-CoV-2 related infection, to counteract the "cytokine storm" observed in these individuals. Well-designed and sized trials in patients suffering from COVID-19 with different degrees of severity are needed to investigate the real impact in the clinical practice of this promising therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio G Gallo
- Emilian Physiolaser Therapy Center, Castel S. Pietro Terme, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Donato Antonacci
- Medical Science Department, "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" Hospital, San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Enrico Giampieri
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ivan Corazza
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rossella Loiacono
- Internal Medicine Unit, Medical and Surgical Sciences Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Loggi
- Hepatology Unit, Medical and Surgical Sciences Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Lari
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
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Hong W, Zhou X, Jin S, Lu Y, Pan J, Lin Q, Yang S, Xu T, Basharat Z, Zippi M, Fiorino S, Tsukanov V, Stock S, Grottesi A, Chen Q, Pan J. A Comparison of XGBoost, Random Forest, and Nomograph for the Prediction of Disease Severity in Patients With COVID-19 Pneumonia: Implications of Cytokine and Immune Cell Profile. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:819267. [PMID: 35493729 PMCID: PMC9039730 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.819267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The aim of this study was to apply machine learning models and a nomogram to differentiate critically ill from non-critically ill COVID-19 pneumonia patients. METHODS Clinical symptoms and signs, laboratory parameters, cytokine profile, and immune cellular data of 63 COVID-19 pneumonia patients were retrospectively reviewed. Outcomes were followed up until Mar 12, 2020. A logistic regression function (LR model), Random Forest, and XGBoost models were developed. The performance of these models was measured by area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis. RESULTS Univariate analysis revealed that there was a difference between critically and non-critically ill patients with respect to levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-10, T cells, CD4+ T, and CD8+ T cells. Interleukin-10 with an AUC of 0.86 was most useful predictor of critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. Ten variables (respiratory rate, neutrophil counts, aspartate transaminase, albumin, serum procalcitonin, D-dimer and B-type natriuretic peptide, CD4+ T cells, interleukin-6 and interleukin-10) were used as candidate predictors for LR model, Random Forest (RF) and XGBoost model application. The coefficients from LR model were utilized to build a nomogram. RF and XGBoost methods suggested that Interleukin-10 and interleukin-6 were the most important variables for severity of illness prediction. The mean AUC for LR, RF, and XGBoost model were 0.91, 0.89, and 0.93 respectively (in two-fold cross-validation). Individualized prediction by XGBoost model was explained by local interpretable model-agnostic explanations (LIME) plot. CONCLUSIONS XGBoost exhibited the highest discriminatory performance for prediction of critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. It is inferred that the nomogram and visualized interpretation with LIME plot could be useful in the clinical setting. Additionally, interleukin-10 could serve as a useful predictor of critically ill patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wandong Hong, ; Jingye Pan,
| | - Xiaoying Zhou
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shengchun Jin
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yajing Lu
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jingyi Pan
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qingyi Lin
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shaopeng Yang
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Tingting Xu
- School of the First Clinical Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zarrin Basharat
- Jamil-ur-Rahman Center for Genome Research, Dr. Panjwani Centre for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vladislav Tsukanov
- Department of Gastroenterology, Scientific Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
| | - Simon Stock
- Department of Surgery, World Mate Emergency Hospital, Battambang, Cambodia
| | | | - Qin Chen
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jingye Pan
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wandong Hong, ; Jingye Pan,
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10
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S, Manfredi R. Figurative aspects suggestive of infectious diseases in the ceramic pots of the pre-Columbian Moche culture. Analysis of the ceramics collection in the Larco Museum of Lima, Peru. Infez Med 2021; 29:633-642. [PMID: 35146375 PMCID: PMC8805469 DOI: 10.53854/liim-2904-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The historical-medical and anthropological studies, regarding Mesoamerica and South America, have been mainly focused on the great empires (Inca, Atzec, Maya), while other civilizations have been less investigated and only recently are gaining interest. In general, the paleopathological research provides interesting data to know the type of nutrition and the general environmental conditions as well as to point out some ritual mutilation practices, which were relatively frequent in the pre-Columbian cultures. A lot of civilizations flourished in the South America before the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadores in the new world. In the last years it is progressively increasing the interest for the study of the Moche culture as well as for a deeper knowledge of pathocenosis of infectious diseases in the Moche society. Human infectious diseases are known to have a frequent animal origin, in particular from domesticated species, although the species domesticated in the pre-Columbian era were a small number. The purpose of our paper has been to examine the archeological findings suggestive of infectious diseases in artistic ceramic pots, dating back to the Moche period. We examined the iconography of ceramic pots belonging to the collection of the Larco Museum in Lima and reproducing body signs suggestive of infectious diseases. We identified 8 handworks with very interesting features by a medical point of view. In these handworks there are signs and lesions possibly associated with infectious diseases: risus sardonicus, orbital edema, facial nerve palsy, dorsal kyphosis, face and skin lesions. These features are compatible with some infectious diseases, including: syphilis, Bartonella bacilliformis, leishmaniasis, Pott's disease and Chagas disease. A wide discussion about these handworks is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio, Azienda USL di Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Italy
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11
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Gallo CG, Fiorino S, Posabella G, Antonacci D, Tropeano A, Pausini E, Pausini C, Guarniero T, Hong W, Giampieri E, Corazza I, Federico L, de Biase D, Zippi M, Zancanaro M. COVID-19, what could sepsis, severe acute pancreatitis, gender differences, and aging teach us? Cytokine 2021; 148:155628. [PMID: 34411989 PMCID: PMC8343368 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2021.155628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a potentially life-threatening disease, defined as Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19). The most common signs and symptoms of this pathological condition include cough, fever, shortness of breath, and sudden onset of anosmia, ageusia, or dysgeusia. The course of COVID-19 is mild or moderate in more than 80% of cases, but it is severe or critical in about 14% and 5% of infected subjects respectively, with a significant risk of mortality. SARS-CoV-2 related infection is characterized by some pathogenetic events, resembling those detectable in other pathological conditions, such as sepsis and severe acute pancreatitis. All these syndromes are characterized by some similar features, including the coexistence of an exuberant inflammatory- as well as an anti-inflammatory-response with immune depression. Based on current knowledge concerning the onset and the development of acute pancreatitis and sepsis, we have considered these syndromes as a very interesting paradigm for improving our understanding of pathogenetic events detectable in patients with COVID-19. The aim of our review is: 1)to examine the pathogenetic mechanisms acting during the emergence of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory processes in human pathology; 2)to examine inflammatory and anti-inflammatory events in sepsis, acute pancreatitis, and SARS-CoV-2 infection and clinical manifestations detectable in patients suffering from these syndromes also according to the age and gender of these individuals; as well as to analyze the possible common and different features among these pathological conditions; 3)to obtain insights into our knowledge concerning COVID-19 pathogenesis. This approach may improve the management of patients suffering from this disease and it may suggest more effective diagnostic approaches and schedules of therapy, depending on the different phases and/or on the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio G Gallo
- Emilian Physiolaser Therapy Center, Castel S. Pietro Terme, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Donato Antonacci
- Medical Science Department, "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" Hospital, San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang, The People's Republic of China
| | - Enrico Giampieri
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ivan Corazza
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lari Federico
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
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12
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Fiorino S, Tateo F, Biase DD, Gallo CG, Orlandi PE, Corazza I, Budriesi R, Micucci M, Visani M, Loggi E, Hong W, Pica R, Lari F, Zippi M. SARS-CoV-2: lessons from both the history of medicine and from the biological behavior of other well-known viruses. Future Microbiol 2021; 16:1105-1133. [PMID: 34468163 PMCID: PMC8412036 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the etiological agent of the current pandemic worldwide and its associated disease COVID-19. In this review, we have analyzed SARS-CoV-2 characteristics and those ones of other well-known RNA viruses viz. HIV, HCV and Influenza viruses, collecting their historical data, clinical manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms. The aim of the work is obtaining useful insights and lessons for a better understanding of SARS-CoV-2. These pathogens present a distinct mode of transmission, as SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza viruses are airborne, whereas HIV and HCV are bloodborne. However, these viruses exhibit some potential similar clinical manifestations and pathogenetic mechanisms and their understanding may contribute to establishing preventive measures and new therapies against SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL, Bologna, 40054, Italy
- Author for correspondence: Tel.: +39 051 809 259;
| | - Fabio Tateo
- Institute of Geosciences & Earth Resources, CNR, c/o Department of Geosciences, Padova University, 35127, Italy
| | - Dario De Biase
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Claudio G Gallo
- Fisiolaserterapico Emiliano, Castel San Pietro Terme, Bologna, 40024, Italy
| | | | - Ivan Corazza
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic & Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Roberta Budriesi
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Matteo Micucci
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Loggi
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medical & Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, 40126, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang, 325035, PR China
| | - Roberta Pica
- Unit of Gastroenterology & Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, 00157, Italy
| | - Federico Lari
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Budrio (Bologna), Azienda USL, Bologna, 40054, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology & Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, 00157, Italy
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13
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Visani M, Acquaviva G, De Leo A, Sanza V, Merlo L, Maloberti T, Brandes AA, Franceschi E, Di Battista M, Masetti M, Jovine E, Fiorino S, Pession A, Tallini G, de Biase D. Molecular alterations in pancreatic tumors. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:2710-2726. [PMID: 34135550 PMCID: PMC8173386 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i21.2710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic alterations in pancreatic tumors can usually be classified in: (1) Mutational activation of oncogenes; (2) Inactivation of tumor suppressor genes; and (3) Inactivation of genome maintenance genes controlling the repair of DNA damage. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration has improved pre-operative diagnosis, but the management of patients with a pancreatic lesion is still challenging. Molecular testing could help mainly in solving these “inconclusive” specimens. The introduction of multi-gene analysis approaches, such as next-generation sequencing, has provided a lot of useful information on the molecular characterization of pancreatic tumors. Different types of pancreatic tumors (e.g., pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, solid pseudopapillary tumors) are characterized by specific molecular alterations. The aim of this review is to summarize the main molecular alterations found in pancreatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Visani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna–Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna–Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Antonio De Leo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna–Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Division of Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Viviana Sanza
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna–Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Lidia Merlo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna–Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Thais Maloberti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna–Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Alba A Brandes
- Medical Oncology Department, Azienda USL/IRCCS Istituto Delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna 40139, Italy
| | - Enrico Franceschi
- Medical Oncology Department, Azienda USL/IRCCS Istituto Delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna 40139, Italy
| | - Monica Di Battista
- Medical Oncology Department, Azienda USL/IRCCS Istituto Delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna 40139, Italy
| | - Michele Masetti
- Division of Surgery, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Division of Surgery, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pession
- Division of Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna–Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Division of Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Division of Molecular Pathology Laboratory, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
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14
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Zippi M, Fiorino S, Budriesi R, Micucci M, Corazza I, Pica R, de Biase D, Gallo CG, Hong W. Paradoxical relationship between proton pump inhibitors and COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:2763-2777. [PMID: 33969059 PMCID: PMC8058681 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i12.2763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), used to reduce gastric acid secretion, represent one of the most widely used pharmaceutical classes in the world. Their consumption as a risk factor for the evolution of severe forms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has been investigated as well as the mortality of these patients. These risks also appear to be linked to the duration and the dosage. On the other hand, several studies have emerged with regard to the protective or therapeutic effects of these drugs. More and more evidence underlines the immunomodulatory and anti-fibrotic role of PPIs. In addition, their ability to alkalize the contents of endosomes and lysosomes serves as an obstacle to the entry of the virus into the host cells. AIM To identify studies on the relationship between the intake of PPIs and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in patients affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection, with the main objective of evaluating the outcomes related to severity and mortality. METHODS A literature review was performed in November 2020. The MEDLINE/PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases were searched for all relevant articles published in English on this topic. The search terms were identified by means of controlled vocabularies, such as the National Library of Medicine's MESH (Medical Subject Headings) and keywords. The MESH terms and keywords used were as follows: "COVID-19", "proton pump inhibitors", "PPIs", "SARS-CoV-2", "outcomes", "severity" and "mortality". The inclusion criteria regarding the studies considered in our analysis were: meta-analysis, case-control, hospital-based case-control, population-based case-control, retrospective studies, online survey, as well as cohort-studies, while articles not published as full reports, such as conference abstracts, case reports and editorials were excluded. We tried to summarize and pool all the data if available. RESULTS A total of 9 studies were found that described the use of PPIs, of which only 5 clearly reported the severity and mortality data in SARS-CoV-2 patients. Our pooled incidence analysis of severe events did not differ between patients with and without PPIs (odds ratio 1.65, 95% confidence interval: 0.62-4.35) (P = 0.314), or for mortality (odds ratio 1.77, 95% confidence interval: 0.62-5.03) (P = 0.286). CONCLUSION Detailed and larger case studies are needed to accurately understand the role of PPIs in this viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Roberta Budriesi
- Food Chemistry and Nutraceuticals Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Matteo Micucci
- Food Chemistry and Nutraceuticals Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Ivan Corazza
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Speciality Medicine Department, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Roberta Pica
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | | | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
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15
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Zippi M, Fiorino S, Bertoldi I, Hong W, Occhigrossi G. An Unexpected Gastric Subepithelial Mass. Oman Med J 2021; 36:e252. [PMID: 33959382 PMCID: PMC8076767 DOI: 10.5001/omj.2021.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A63-year-old man came to our observation complaining of symptoms referable to gastroesophageal reflux disease. No epigastric pain, postprandial fullness, or vomiting were present during clinical examination. His history did not show noteworthy pathologies. The patient did not follow any pharmacological therapy, and there was no family history for neoplasia of the digestive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
- Corresponding author:
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Giuseppe Occhigrossi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
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16
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S, Manfredi R. The plague which hit the city of Bologna in the year 1630. Infez Med 2021; 29:145-156. [PMID: 33664185] [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: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In the year 1630, similarly to other cities of Northern Italy, Bologna was affected by a plague epidemic. It occurred after the arrival of Lansquenet troops, engaged by the Emperor Frederick II in the siege of Mantua city. The human losses have been calculated by the historian demographer Bellettini in the terms of around 15,000 people, so that the number of inhabitants in Bologna declined from 62,000 to 47,000 units in the time span of 7-8 months. Initially, during the winter and the early spring, although the plague epidemic had been known after that it involved many cities close to Bologna (i.e. Turin, Milan, Venice, Genoa and Verona), the population tried to keep the epidemic hidden, being afraid that commerce exchanges could be affected by this event. Later, starting from the month of May, under the guidance of cardinal Bernardino Spada, cooperating with the numerous religious orders and in particular with the one of the Camillians, the city reacted, launching an organization effort which significantly aided in the containment of the plague epidemic. A number of Lazarettos were organized outside of the city walls and relevant sums supported the clean operation of over 3,000 houses. The city Senate sustained the poor population with a sum of 700,000 lire and grain donations. Even if the loss of human lives was high, it resulted not so dramatic, compared with that paid by other Italian cities. From a cultural point of view, according to the belief of the scientific knowledge of that time, the miasmatic theories were still considered satisfactory, although in the common practice the people who could leave the city escaped from Bologna, in order to avoid the contagion. We can argue that the impact of the epidemic was reduced by means of the organizational approach with strict isolation measures for sick persons, the closing of the city walls in the urban areas more affected by the plague, and finally a sanctionatory and punitive approach for individuals, who disregarded the applied rules.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine, Budrio Hospital, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Infectious Disease Institute, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
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Fiorino S, Zippi M, Gallo C, Sifo D, Sabbatani S, Manfredi R, Rasciti E, Rasciti L, Giampieri E, Corazza I, Leandri P, de Biase D. The rationale for a multi-step therapeutic approach based on antivirals, drugs and nutrients with immunomodulatory activity in patients with coronavirus-SARS2-induced disease of different severities. Br J Nutr 2021; 125:275-293. [PMID: 32703328 PMCID: PMC7431858 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114520002913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In December 2019, a novel human-infecting coronavirus, named Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was recognised to cause a pneumonia epidemic outbreak with different degrees of severity in Wuhan, Hubei Province in China. Since then, this epidemic has spread worldwide; in Europe, Italy has been involved. Effective preventive and therapeutic strategies are absolutely required to block this serious public health concern. Unfortunately, few studies about SARS-CoV-2 concerning its immunopathogenesis and treatment are available. On the basis of the assumption that the SARS-CoV-2 is genetically related to SARS-CoV (about 82 % of genome homology) and that its characteristics, like the modality of transmission or the type of the immune response it may stimulate, are still poorly known, a literature search was performed to identify the reports assessing these elements in patients with SARS-CoV-induced infection. Therefore, we have analysed: (1) the structure of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV; (2) the clinical signs and symptoms and pathogenic mechanisms observed during the development of acute respiratory syndrome and the cytokine release syndrome; (3) the modification of the cell microRNome and of the immune response in patients with SARS infection; and (4) the possible role of some fat-soluble compounds (such as vitamins A, D and E) in modulating directly or indirectly the replication ability of SARS-CoV-2 and host immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit C, Maggiore Hospital Azienda USL, 40100 Bologna, Italy
- Corresponding author: Sirio Fiorino, fax + 39 51809034, email
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Gallo
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
| | - Debora Sifo
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
| | - Sergio Sabbatani
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Infective Disease Unit, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Infective Disease Unit, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Edoardo Rasciti
- Unit of Radiodiagnostics, Ospedale degli Infermi, 48018 Faenza, AUSL Romagna, Italy
| | - Leonardo Rasciti
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy
| | - Enrico Giampieri
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Ivan Corazza
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Leandri
- Medicine Department, Internal Medicine Unit C, Maggiore Hospital Azienda USL, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
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Vassallo GA, Fiorino S, Mori S, Dionisi T, Augello G, Gioia AC. Hypovitaminosis D and COVID-19. Ital J Med 2020. [DOI: 10.4081/itjm.2020.1404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
As the main title ‘COVID-19 revolution: a new challenge for the internist’ states, the global coronavirus infection disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic represented a new challenge for the internists. This paper is part of a series of articles written during the difficult period of the ongoing global pandemic and published all together in this fourth issue of the Italian Journal of Medicine, with the aim of sharing the direct experiences of those who were the first to face this severe emergency, expressing each point of view in the management of COVID-19 in relation to other diseases. Each article is therefore the result of many efforts and a joint collaboration between many colleagues from the Departments of Internal Medicine or Emergency Medicine of several Italian hospitals, engaged in the front line during the pandemic. These preliminary studies therefore cover diagnostic tools available to health care personnel, epidemiological reflections, possible new therapeutic approaches, discharge and reintegration procedures to daily life, the involvement of the disease not only in the lung, aspects related to various comorbidities, such as: coagulopathies, vasculitis, vitamin D deficiency, gender differences, etc.. The goal is to offer a perspective, as broad as possible, of everything that has been done to initially face the pandemic in its first phase and provide the tools for an increasingly better approach, in the hope of not arriving unprepared to a possible second wave. This paper in particular deals with hypovitaminosis D and COVID-19.
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Zippi M, Hong W, Traversa G, Maccioni F, De Biase D, Gallo C, Fiorino S. Involvement of the exocrine pancreas during COVID-19 infection and possible pathogenetic hypothesis: a concise review. Infez Med 2020; 28:507-515. [PMID: 33257624 DOI: pmid/33257624] [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: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal system may be affected by COVID-19 infection with an incidence variable from 3% up to 79%. Several works show that the pancreas, both in its exocrine and endocrine function, can be affected by this viral infection, although this organ has been poorly analyzed in this current epidemic context. This mini-review aims to provide a summary of available studies on exocrine pancreas involvement during COVID-19 infection. A search through MEDLINE/PubMed was conducted on the topic in hand. With regard to exocrine function, some studies highlight the presence of an associated hyperenzymemia (hyperamylasemia, hyperlipasemia), while others describe isolated and rare cases of acute pancreatitis. More attention should be paid to pancreatic impairment in subjects with COVID-19, as this may prove to be one of the elements aggravating its clinical course. Indeed, acute pancreatitis, especially when presenting in severe forms with hyperstimulation of the pro-inflammatory response, may represent a crucial factor in the progression of COVID-19, entailing both an increase in hospitalization days and in mortality rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou City, Zhejiang, The People's Republic of China
| | - Giampiero Traversa
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Maccioni
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology, Sapienza University, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Dario De Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Gallo
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital Azienda USL, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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20
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Fiorino S, Gallo C, Zippi M, Sabbatani S, Manfredi R, Moretti R, Fogacci E, Maggioli C, Travasoni Loffredo F, Giampieri E, Corazza I, Dickmans C, Denitto C, Cammarosano M, Battilana M, Orlandi PE, Del Forno F, Miceli F, Visani M, Acquaviva G, De Leo A, Leandri P, Hong W, Brand T, Tallini G, Jovine E, Jovine R, de Biase D. Cytokine storm in aged people with CoV-2: possible role of vitamins as therapy or preventive strategy. Aging Clin Exp Res 2020; 32:2115-2131. [PMID: 32865757 PMCID: PMC7456763 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-020-01669-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In December 2019, a novel human-infecting coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, had emerged. The WHO has classified the epidemic as a "public health emergency of international concern". A dramatic situation has unfolded with thousands of deaths, occurring mainly in the aged and very ill people. Epidemiological studies suggest that immune system function is impaired in elderly individuals and these subjects often present a deficiency in fat-soluble and hydrosoluble vitamins. METHODS We searched for reviews describing the characteristics of autoimmune diseases and the available therapeutic protocols for their treatment. We set them as a paradigm with the purpose to uncover common pathogenetic mechanisms between these pathological conditions and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Furthermore, we searched for studies describing the possible efficacy of vitamins A, D, E, and C in improving the immune system function. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2 infection induces strong immune system dysfunction characterized by the development of an intense proinflammatory response in the host, and the development of a life-threatening condition defined as cytokine release syndrome (CRS). This leads to acute respiratory syndrome (ARDS), mainly in aged people. High mortality and lethality rates have been observed in elderly subjects with CoV-2-related infection. CONCLUSIONS Vitamins may shift the proinflammatory Th17-mediated immune response arising in autoimmune diseases towards a T-cell regulatory phenotype. This review discusses the possible activity of vitamins A, D, E, and C in restoring normal antiviral immune system function and the potential therapeutic role of these micronutrients as part of a therapeutic strategy against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy.
- Internal Medicine Unit, Maggiore Hospital of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Claudio Gallo
- Physician Specialist in Infectious Diseases, AUSL Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Petrini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Renzo Moretti
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Fogacci
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | - Caterina Maggioli
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Giampieri
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ivan Corazza
- Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine Department, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Christoph Dickmans
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Denitto
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Cammarosano
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Battilana
- UO of Internal Medicine Unit, Hospital of Budrio, Via Benni 44, 40065, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesco Miceli
- UO Farmacia Centralizzata OM, Farmacia Ospedale Di Budrio, Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), Molecular Diagnostic Unit, University of Bologna, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), Molecular Diagnostic Unit, University of Bologna, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio De Leo
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), Molecular Diagnostic Unit, University of Bologna, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Leandri
- Internal Medicine Unit, Maggiore Hospital of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, The People's Republic of China
| | - Thomas Brand
- Regenerative Medicine Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), Molecular Diagnostic Unit, University of Bologna, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Surgery Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Jovine
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FABIT), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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21
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Fiorino S, Visani M, Masetti M, Acquaviva G, Tallini G, De Leo A, Fornelli A, Ragazzi M, Vasuri F, Grifoni D, Argento CM, Maloberti T, Ravaioli M, Fabbri C, Jovine E, Pession A, de Biase D. Periostin, tenascin, osteopontin isoforms in long- and non-long survival patients with pancreatic cancer: a pilot study. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:8235-8241. [PMID: 32886326 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05763-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most frequent histological type of malignancy in the pancreas. Extracellular matrix (ECM), plays a critical role during the process of human carcinogenesis and the possible diversity in matricellular proteins composition of ECM may have a significant impact on the clinical course of PDAC. Aim of this paper was to evaluate the expression of three matricellular proteins, including Periostin (POSTN), Tenascin (TNS) and Osteopontin (OPN), in PDAC from long-survival (LS) and non-long survival (NLS) patients. A total of 30 PDAC were analyzed, 15 from patients that survived more than 60 months after surgery (LS) and 15 that died from the disease within 24 (NLS). RNA was extracted and OPN, TNS and POSTN mRNA levels were evaluated by qRT-PCR. LS and NLS samples showed the same type of POSTN and TN isoforms. On the contrary, OPN seems to be preferentially expressed in NLS PDAC. Moreover, OPNb and OPNc isoforms were expressed exclusively in NLS samples. In conclusion, Our data led to hypothesize a possible relationship between the expression of different isoforms of each of these proteins and the clinical outcome of patients with PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Azienda USL Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio De Leo
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Moira Ragazzi
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Vasuri
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, "F. Addarii" Institute of Oncology and Transplantation Pathology, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Grifoni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Argento
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Thais Maloberti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Ravaioli
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Fabbri
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Forlì-Cesena Hospital, Forlì-Cesena, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pession
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy.
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22
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S, Manfredi R. The plague in Bologna in the year 1527. Infez Med 2020; 28:278-287. [PMID: 32487796] [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: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In the year 1527, following the invasion of Italy by Landsknechts, who were headed by Georg von Frundsberg, the bubonic plague appeared in the country. These soldiers were part of an army that Charles V sent to invade Italy in order to subjugate the Italian states which had adhered to the League of Cognac. In Bologna during the year 1527 believers held a procession from the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Soccorso, through the city, as far as the Church of San Rocco. The reason for this practice was linked with the plague epidemic. After some cases of plague observed in the Borgo di San Pietro district the miracle of the interruption of the epidemics, thanks to the intervention of Our Lady, was narrated by the faithfuls. Later, after several decades, it was reported by several authors from Bologna, who were not witnesses to the facts, that the epidemic had involved 12,000 out of a total population of around 60,000 inhabitants at that time. We re-evaluated this situation starting from the demographic data concerning the citizens in Bologna during the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. Furthermore, we performed a search in the State Archives in the city of Bologna in order to find any public notices from the city authorities in the year 1527 aiming to counteract a plague epidemic. Our investigation found no elements to support the outbreak of this disease. Throughout the 16th century, until 1590, the population grew significantly, and no public notices were issued or specific laws enacted to deal with the plague until the year 1557. However, it remains possible that in the area in question, some episodes of plague occurred, but it was fortunately a micro-epidemic, which involved a very poor area of the city. Then this disease was self-limited. However, in our opinion, this episode proved very important, since in this district of Bologna, and around a wooden image of the Madonna del Soccorso, a confraternity took place, and its activities continued until the year 1798. This group of citizens also played a major role in many charitable activities to aid the inhabitants of Bologna, during a difficult historical period, namely the Protestant Reformation, and contributed to strengthen the faith of Catholic believers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Universitá degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unitá Operativa di Medicina Interna C, Ospedale Maggiore, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Universitá degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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23
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Zippi M, Fiorino S, Occhigrossi G, Hong W. Hypertransaminasemia in the course of infection with SARS-CoV-2: Incidence and pathogenetic hypothesis. World J Clin Cases 2020; 8:1385-1390. [PMID: 32368531 PMCID: PMC7190951 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i8.1385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, the respiratory symptoms, such as fever, cough and dyspnea, are the most frequent clinical manifestations. These patients may also present with less well-defined symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and/or abdominal discomfort both at the time of diagnosis and during the clinical course. In a few cases, these symptoms may also present before the appearance of respiratory symptoms. To penetrate the body, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 uses ACE2 receptors, which are present not only in respiratory epithelium but also in gastrointestinal mucosa and liver cholangiocytes. In several cases, viral RNA is detectable in the stool of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The liver damage seems to show a multifactorial origin. About 2%-11% of patients with COVID-19 have known underlying hepatic pathologies. In 14%-53% of COVID-19 cases, there is an alteration of the indices of liver cytolysis and is more frequently observed in severe forms of COVID-19, especially during hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Zippi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna 40133, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Occhigrossi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome 00157, Italy
| | - Wandong Hong
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang Province, China
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24
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S, Manfredi R. The destiny of Italian prisoners in Austro-Hungarian POW camps during the First World War: remembering the defeat of Caporetto 100 years on. Infez Med 2020; 28:108-124. [PMID: 32172270] [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: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The living conditions of Italian prisoners during the First World War were extremely difficult. At the end of the conflict, the treatment of Italian soldiers in Austro-Hungarian POW camps and in those of the German territories was recognized as particularly harsh in comparison with that of other prisoners. The reasons may be ascribed to three main factors. The Italian prisoners paid the price of being considered traitors, since Italy was allied with the Austro-Hungarian Empire and with Germany until 1914, subsequently switching to the side of France, the United Kingdom and Russia. The Italian government and the Italian High Command considered their soldiers poorly inclined to engage in a war which became over time increasingly costly in terms of human sacrifice. The strategy pursued by the General-in-Chief Luigi Cadorna was very aggressive and showed little care for the life conditions of his troops, who were frequently thrown into the fray and exposed to potential slaughter. Due to this negative judgement on their troops' willingness to fight, the government did not help, and even hindered, the despatch of packages of food and clothes to prisoners in the Austro-Hungarian and German camps via the Red Cross. The idea of a better life in the trenches compared with that expected in the camps as prisoners was widespread. Thirdly, the maritime blockade of the Adriatic Sea over time reduced to starvation the populations of Austria, Hungary and Germany, which obviously had grave repercussions on prisoners. It was estimated that around 100,000 Italians lost their lives in POW camps; after the defeat at Caporetto, when over 250,000 prisoners were captured, the number of deaths rose. The main causes of death were: tuberculosis, pneumonia, malnutrition and typhoid fever. At the end of the war, when coming back to Italy, former POWs were interned for months in camps (located predominantly in the Emilia region) and had to face interrogation and trials to demonstrate they were not deserters and were free to go back home. In the meantime, many lost their lives due to "Spanish" flu, pneumonia and other infectious diseases. Only the mobilization both of families and public opinion forced the Italian government to close the camps at the end of the year 1919.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Universitá degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unitá Operativa di Medicina Interna C, Ospedale Maggiore, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Universitá degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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25
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S, Manfredi R. The health of Italian troops and prisoners during World War I. Infez Med 2019; 27:468-478. [PMID: 31847002] [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: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
During the Great War, which involved Italy from May 1915 until November 1918, the Italian Army paid an extremely high price in terms of suffering; around 600,000 soldiers died. About 100,000 of these deaths were caused by diseases, mainly infectious ones. The casualties accounted for over one million cases. Epidemics of cholera and petechial typhus were recorded as well as an increase in morbidity due to tuberculosis and malaria, which had shown some minor epidemiological reduction in several regions of Italy during the years preceding the Great War. A large number of soldiers acquired respiratory tract and brain infections. Severe limb infections were due to war wounds, but also to a novel disorder called "trench foot", In a context of general hygienic decay, death and stress linked to massive bombing, severe psychiatric disorders were observed. They were called "shell shock" in English (and known in Italy as "the wind of the howitzer"). The patients suffering from the above psychiatric disorders were considered simulators by the great majority of psychiatrists, who largely believed such soldiers wanted to avoid active combat. They were subjected to electric shocks and later sent back to the war front or to a mental hospital in the most severe cases. In some dramatic occurrences, like at the time of the Caporetto defeat, a substantial number of soldiers were dealt rough justice in front of firing squads under the suspicion of desertion. Yet World War I, with its dramatic load of suffering, forced the medical environment to develop extremely innovative techniques and research applied to clinical practice. During the decades to follow, such efforts yielded major results in the field of pharmacology: studies which led to the discovery of the first antibiotics were set in motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna C, Ospedale Maggiore, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S, Manfredi R. Plagues and artistic votive expressions (ex voto) of popular piety. Infez Med 2019; 27:198-211. [PMID: 31205047] [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: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In past centuries, epidemics, the scourge of humankind, caused pain, anger, uncertainty of the future, social as well as economic disorder and a significant impact on their victims, involving also their spiritual sphere. The latter effect led to undoubted effects on participation in the religious and social life of communities. The custom of preparing artistic votive expressions has been lost in the mists of time and evidence of ex voto gifts, offered by believers to pagan gods, has been found in prehistoric archaeological sites. Furthermore, several finds from the Ancient Greek and Roman worlds may be observed in our museums. These remains are generally ceramic and metal artifacts, reproducing limbs and other body parts which had been healed. These elements, according to the belief of those making the offerings, had benefited from the miraculous intervention of a thaumaturgical deity. With the advent of Christianity, some pre-existing religious practices were endorsed by the new religion. Believers continued to demonstrate their gratitude in different ways either to miracle-working saints or to the Virgin Mary, because they thought that, thanks to an act of faith, their own health or that of a family member would benefit from the direct intervention of the divine entities to whom they had prayed. In the Ancient Greek world, it was believed that the god Asclepius could directly influence human events, as testified by the popularity of shrines and temples to the god, especially at Epidaurus. In the Christian world as well, particular places have been detected, often solitary and secluded in the countryside or in the mountains, where, according to tradition, direct contact was established between the faithful and Saints or the Virgin Mary Herself. Manifestations occurred by means of miracles and apparitions, thereby creating a direct link between the supernatural world and believers. Religious communities, in these extraordinary places, responded to the call through the building of shrines and promotion of the cult. Over time, the faithful reached these places of mystery, performing pilgrimages with the aim of strengthening their religious faith, but also with the purpose of seeking intercession and grace. In this case, the request for clemency assumed spiritual characteristics and also became a profession of faith. Accordingly, the shrines in the Christian world are places where supernatural events may occur. In these environments the believer resorted to faith, when medicine showed its limits in a tangible way. For the above reasons, while epidemics were occurring, the requests for clemency were numerous and such petitions were both individual and collective. In particular, by means of votive offerings (ex voto) the believers, both individually and collectively, gave the evidence of the received grace to the thaumaturgical Saint. Through the votive act, a perpetual link between the believer and the Saints or Holy Virgin was forged and a strong request for communion was transmitted. The aim of the present study is to describe the role played by votive tablets (ex voto) in the last 500-600 years, as visible evidence of human suffering. From this perspective, these votive expressions may assume the role of markers because, in accordance with the expressions of popular faith, they allow us to follow the most important outbreaks that have caused distress to Christian communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna C, Ospedale Maggiore, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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27
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Grizzi F, Fiorino S, Qehajaj D, Fornelli A, Russo C, de Biase D, Masetti M, Mastrangelo L, Zanello M, Lombardi R, Domanico A, Accogli E, Tura A, Mirandola L, Chiriva-Internati M, Bresalier RS, Jovine E, Leandri P, Di Tommaso L. Computer-aided assessment of the extra-cellular matrix during pancreatic carcinogenesis: a pilot study. J Transl Med 2019; 17:61. [PMID: 30819202 PMCID: PMC6393991 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-1817-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A hallmark of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the desmoplastic reaction, but its impact on the tumor behavior remains controversial. Our aim was to introduce a computer -aided method to precisely quantify the amount of pancreatic collagenic extra-cellular matrix, its spatial distribution pattern, and the degradation process. METHODS A series of normal, inflammatory and neoplastic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded Sirius red stained sections were automatically digitized and analyzed using a computer-aided method. RESULTS We found a progressive increase of pancreatic collagenic extra-cellular matrix from normal to the inflammatory and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. The two-dimensional fractal dimension showed a significant difference in the collagenic extra-cellular matrix spatial complexity between normal versus inflammatory and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. A significant difference when comparing the number of cycles necessary to degrade the pancreatic collagenic extra-cellular matrix in normal versus inflammatory and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma was also found. The difference between inflammatory and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma was also significant. Furthermore, the mean velocity of collagenic extra-cellular matrix degradation was found to be faster in inflammatory and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma than in normal. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate that inflammatory and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas are characterized by an increased amount of pancreatic collagenic extra-cellular matrix and by changes in their spatial complexity and degradation. Our study defines new features about the pancreatic collagenic extra-cellular matrix, and represents a basis for further investigations into the clinical behavior of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and the development of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Grizzi
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Humanitas University, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Histology Core, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dorina Qehajaj
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Service, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Russo
- “Michele Rodriguez” Foundation-Institute for Quantitative Measures in Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrea Domanico
- Ultrasound Center Internal Medicine A, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Esterita Accogli
- Ultrasound Center Internal Medicine A, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | - Maurizio Chiriva-Internati
- Kiromic Biopharma, Inc., Houston, TX USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX USA
| | - Robert S. Bresalier
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Division of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Houston, TX USA
| | - Elio Jovine
- Surgery Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Leandri
- Internal Medicine Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Di Tommaso
- Humanitas University, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center—IRCCS, Rozzano, Milano, Italy
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28
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Fiorino S, Di Saverio S, Leandri P, Tura A, Birtolo C, Silingardi M, de Biase D, Avisar E. The role of matricellular proteins and tissue stiffness in breast cancer: a systematic review. Future Oncol 2018; 14:1601-1627. [PMID: 29939077 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2017-0510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignancies consist not only of cancerous and nonmalignant cells, but also of additional elements, as extracellular matrix. The aim of this review is to summarize meta-analyses, describing breast tissue stiffness and risk of breast carcinoma (BC) assessing the potential relationship between matricellular proteins (MPs) and survival. A systematic computer-based search of published articles, according to PRISMA statement, was conducted through Ovid interface. Mammographic density and tissue stiffness are associated with the risk of BC development, suggesting that MPs may influence BC prognosis. No definitive conclusions are available and additional researches are required to definitively clarify the role of each MP, mammographic density and stiffness in BC development and the mechanisms involved in the onset of this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine 'C' Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Salomone Di Saverio
- Cambridge Colorectal Unit, Box 201, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Paolo Leandri
- Internal Medicine 'C' Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Tura
- Metabolic Unit, CNR Institute of Neuroscience, Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Birtolo
- Geriatric Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mauro Silingardi
- Internal Medicine 'A' Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Local Health Unit of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy & Biotechnology, Molecular Pathology Unit, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Eli Avisar
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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29
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Masetti M, Acquaviva G, Visani M, Tallini G, Fornelli A, Ragazzi M, Vasuri F, Grifoni D, Di Giacomo S, Fiorino S, Lombardi R, Tuminati D, Ravaioli M, Fabbri C, Bacchi-Reggiani ML, Pession A, Jovine E, de Biase D. Long-term survivors of pancreatic adenocarcinoma show low rates of genetic alterations in KRAS, TP53 and SMAD4. Cancer Biomark 2018; 21:323-334. [PMID: 29103024 DOI: 10.3233/cbm-170464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest human malignancies. Although surgery is currently the only effective treatment for PDAC, most patients survive less than 20 months after tumor resection. OBJECTIVE The primary goal was to investigate alterations in KRAS, TP53, SMAD4 and CDKN2A/p16 in tumors from patients with exceptionally long survival after surgery. METHODS Tumors from 15 patients with PDAC that survived more than 55 months after surgery ("LS") were analyzed for KRAS, TP53, IDH1, NRAS and BRAF using next-generation sequencing. SMAD4 and CDKN2A/p16 was tested using immunohistochemistry. MGMT promoter methylation was investigated. RESULTS Tumors from "LS" have a lower prevalence of KRAS and TP53 mutations and had more frequently SMAD4 retained expression, if compared with that of patients died within 24 months from surgery. The survival of patients with wild-type KRAS and TP53 tumors was more than twice longer than that of patients bearing KRAS and TP53 mutations (90.2 vs. 41.1 months). Patients with KRAS wild-type tumors and that retained SMAD4 expression had a survival twice longer than cases with alterations in both genes (83.8 vs. 36.7 months). Eleven tumors (39.3%) showed MGMT methylation. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that absence of KRAS, TP53 and SMAD4 genetic alterations may identify a subset of pancreatic carcinomas with better outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Masetti
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Moira Ragazzi
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Vasuri
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, "F. Addarii" Institute of Oncology and Transplantation Pathology, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Grifoni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simone Di Giacomo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - David Tuminati
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Ravaioli
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Fabbri
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, AUSL Bologna Bellaria-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Bacchi-Reggiani
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), Cardiology Unit, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pession
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale) - Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
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30
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani ML, Birtolo C, Acquaviva G, Visani M, Fornelli A, Masetti M, Tura A, Sbrignadello S, Grizzi F, Patrinicola F, Zanello M, Mastrangelo L, Lombardi R, Benini C, Di Tommaso L, Bondi A, Monetti F, Siopis E, Orlandi PE, Imbriani M, Fabbri C, Giovanelli S, Domanico A, Accogli E, Di Saverio S, Grifoni D, Cennamo V, Leandri P, Jovine E, de Biase D. Matricellular proteins and survival in patients with pancreatic cancer: A systematic review. Pancreatology 2018; 18:122-132. [PMID: 29137857 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Revised: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a fundamental role in tissue architecture and homeostasis and modulates cell functions through a complex interaction between cell surface receptors, hormones, several bioeffector molecules, and structural proteins like collagen. These components are secreted into ECM and all together contribute to regulate several cellular activities including differentiation, apoptosis, proliferation, and migration. The so-called "matricellular" proteins (MPs) have recently emerged as important regulators of ECM functions. The aim of our review is to consider all different types of MPs family assessing the potential relationship between MPs and survival in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). A systematic computer-based search of published articles, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Statement issued in 2009 was conducted through Ovid interface, and literature review was performed in May 2017. The search text words were identified by means of controlled vocabulary, such as the National Library of Medicine's MESH (Medical Subject Headings) and Keywords. Collected data showed an important role of MPs in carcinogenesis and in PDAC prognosis even though the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown and data are not univocal. Therefore, a better understanding of MPs role in regulation of ECM homeostasis and remodeling of specific organ niches may suggest potential novel extracellular targets for the development of efficacious therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit C, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Maria Letizia Bacchi-Reggiani
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), Cardiology Unit, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, University of Bologna, via Massarenti 9, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Birtolo
- Internal Medicine Unit A, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), University of Bologna, Azienda USL di Bologna, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Medicine (Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale), University of Bologna, Azienda USL di Bologna, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Masetti
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Tura
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Fabio Grizzi
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, Milano, Italy
| | - Federica Patrinicola
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, Milano, Italy
| | - Matteo Zanello
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Mastrangelo
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Raffaele Lombardi
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Benini
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Di Tommaso
- Department of Pathology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, Milano, Italy
| | - Arrigo Bondi
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Monetti
- Radiology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Siopis
- Radiology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Emilio Orlandi
- Radiology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Imbriani
- Radiology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Fabbri
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Giovanelli
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Domanico
- Internal Medicine Unit A, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Esterita Accogli
- Internal Medicine Unit A, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Salomone Di Saverio
- Surgical Emergency Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Grifoni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, via San Donato 15, Bologna, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cennamo
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Leandri
- Surgical Emergency Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 3, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, via San Donato 15, Bologna, Italy.
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S, Manfredi R. Italian prisoners with tuberculosis in the early nineteenth century: the experience in the Pianosa prison hospital. Infez Med 2017; 25:381-394. [PMID: 29286022] [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: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In the late nineteenth century, with industrial growth and the resulting mass urbanisation, tuberculosis represented a plague mainly among the poor social classes. The outdated and crowded Italian prisons (formerly old monasteries) during the early 1900s were insufficient to "host" the multitude of inmates condemned or waiting for judgment. Italian prisoners were beset by hunger and poor hygiene facilities. Clothes did not differ between winter and summer. The Criminal Sanatorium of Pianosa was officially inaugurated in 1907, but from the 1860s it had been set up to host an agricultural penal colony. Here we report the excellent results obtained between 1907 and 1909 in the management of tuberculosis among prisoners in Pianosa, where surgery was also available. In those times, climate therapy with an enriched and varied nutrition was the only effective treatment for tuberculosis. Overall, of the 913 prisoners housed in Pianosa in that period and according to the acknowledged scientific criteria, the following results were achieved: complete cure in 182, improvement in 416, mild amelioration in 94, worsening in 80, no change in 20. The number of prisoners who died or were transferred to another prison is unknown. The case series of the prison hospital in Pianosa may be reconstructed thanks to data published by the Director Roberto Passini. The better outcome of the prisoners in Pianosa, in comparison with inmates of other Italian institutions, was due both to treatment standards (climate, nutritional, hygienic, and surgical) and to the proportionally longer period of stay in Pianosa for prisoners with already confirmed detention periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna C, Ospedale Maggiore, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Manfredi
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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32
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Fabbri C, Gibiino G, Fornelli A, Cennamo V, Grifoni D, Visani M, Acquaviva G, Fassan M, Fiorino S, Giovanelli S, Bassi M, Ghersi S, Tallini G, Jovine E, Gasbarrini A, de Biase D. Team work and cytopathology molecular diagnosis of solid pancreatic lesions. Dig Endosc 2017; 29:657-666. [PMID: 28190274 DOI: 10.1111/den.12845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is expected to become the second leading cause of cancer-associated death in the next decade or so. It is widely accepted that tumorigenesis is linked to specific alterations in key genes and pancreatic neoplasms are some of the best characterized at the genomic level. Recent whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing analyses confirmed that PDAC is frequently characterized by mutations in a set of four genes among others: KRAS, TP53, CDKN2A/p16, and SMAD4. Sequencing, for example, is the preferable technique available for detecting KRAS mutations, whereas in situ immunochemistry is the main approach for detecting TP53 gene alteration. Nevertheless, the diagnosis of PDAC is still a clinical challenge, involving adequate acquisition of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and specific pathological assessment from tissue architecture to specific biomolecular tests. The aim of the present review is to provide a complete overview of the current knowledge of the biology of pancreatic cancer as detected by the latest biomolecular techniques and, moreover, to propose a paradigm for strict teamwork collaboration in order to improve the correct use of diagnostic sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Fabbri
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, AUSL Bologna Bellaria-Maggiore Hospital, Italy
| | - Giulia Gibiino
- Medical Pathology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Division, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, AUSL of Bologna, Maggiore Hospital, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cennamo
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, AUSL Bologna Bellaria-Maggiore Hospital, Italy
| | - Daniela Grifoni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Medicine (DIMES), Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL of Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Italy
| | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Medicine (DIMES), Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL of Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Italy
| | - Matteo Fassan
- Department of Medicine, Anatomic Pathology, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Giovanelli
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, AUSL Bologna Bellaria-Maggiore Hospital, Italy
| | - Marco Bassi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, AUSL Bologna Bellaria-Maggiore Hospital, Italy
| | - Stefania Ghersi
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, AUSL Bologna Bellaria-Maggiore Hospital, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Medicine (DIMES), Molecular Diagnostic Unit AUSL of Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, AUSL Bologna Bellaria-Maggiore Hospital, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Medical Pathology, Department of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology Division, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Italy
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S. The treatment of wounds during World War I. Infez Med 2017; 25:184-192. [PMID: 28603241] [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: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The First World War was a huge tragedy for mankind, but, paradoxically, it represented a source of significant progress in a broad series of human activities, including medicine, since it forced physicians to improve their knowledge in the treatment of a large number of wounded soldiers. The use of heavy artillery and machine guns, as well as chemical warfare, caused very serious and life-threatening lesions and wounds. The most frequent causes of death were not mainly related to gunshot wounds, but rather to fractures, tetanus and septic complications of infectious diseases. In the first part of this article, we describe the surgical procedures and medical therapies carried out by Italian physicians during the First World War, with the aim of treating wounded soldiers in this pre-antibiotic era. Antibacterial solutions, such as those of Dakin-Carrel and sodium hypochlorite and boric acid, the tincture of iodine as well as the surgical and dressing approaches and techniques used to remove pus from wounds, such as ignipuncture and thermocautery or lamellar drainage are reported in detail. In the second part of the paper, the organization of the Italian military hospitals network, the systems and tools useful to transport wounded soldiers both in the front lines and in the rear is amply discussed. In addition, the number of soldiers enrolling, and those dying, wounded or missing during the Great War on the Italian front is estimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa Semplice Dipartimentale, Medicina Interna C, Ospedale Maggiore, Bologna, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Italy
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani ML, Leandri P, Loggi E, Andreone P. Vitamin E for the treatment of children with hepatitis B e antigen-positive chronic hepatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. World J Hepatol 2017; 9:333-342. [PMID: 28293383 PMCID: PMC5332423 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v9.i6.333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess vitamin E efficacy, defined as its ability to induce hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) seroconversion, in children with HBeAg-positive persistent hepatitis.
METHODS In July 2016, we extracted articles published in MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library using the following search terms: “chronic hepatitis B”, “children”, “childhood”, “therapy”, “treatment”, “vitamin E”, “tocopherols”, “tocotrienols”. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English language were collected.
RESULTS Three RCTs met inclusion criteria and were considered in the present meta-analysis. Overall, 23/122 children in the treatment group underwent HBeAg seroconversion vs 3/74 in the control group (OR = 3.96, 95%CI: 1.18-13.25, P = 0.025).
CONCLUSION Although our meta-analysis has several limits, including the very small number of available studies and enrolled children with HBeAg positivity-related hepatitis, it suggests that vitamin E use may enhance the probability to induce HBeAg seroconversion in these patients. Further well designed and adequately sized trials are required to confirm or deny these very preliminary results.
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Zanelli M, Ragazzi M, Fiorino S, Foroni M, Cecinato P, Del Mar Jordana Sanchez M, Ascani S, De Marco L. An Italian case of intestinal anisakiasis with a presurgical diagnosis: Could this parasite represent an emerging disease? Pathol Res Pract 2017; 213:558-564. [PMID: 28325642 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2017.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Anisakiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the consumption of raw fish containing larvae of the Anisakis species. Since the first description in 1960 of a patient suffering from this pathogen, in the Netherlands, most of the cases have been reported in Japan, where consumption of raw fish is common, but the number of cases is increasing worldwide. The first case identified in Italy dates back to 1996 and a few cases have been reported since then. In Italy the intestinal form occurs almost as frequently as the gastric form, which is far more frequent in Japan. Intestinal Anisakiasis represents a diagnostic challenge as it is clinically misdiagnosed and most of the patients require surgery due to the occurrence of complications such as bowel occlusion or perforation. Practically no cases of the intestinal form are diagnosed preoperatively. We report the first case, to our knowledge, of intestinal Anisakiasis in which surgery was avoided, due to a prompt diagnosis suspected on intestinal biopsies. A literature review of Anisakiasis cases reported in Italy is also carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magda Zanelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Moira Ragazzi
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa Semplice Dipartimentale di Medicina Interna C, Ospedale Maggiore, Bologna, Italy
| | - Moira Foroni
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Paolo Cecinato
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Ascani
- Institute of Pathology, Ospedale di Terni, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Loredana De Marco
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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Fiorino S, Loggi E, Verucchi G, Comparcola D, Vukotic R, Pavoni M, Grandini E, Cursaro C, Maselli S, Bacchi Reggiani ML, Puggioli C, Badia L, Galli S, Viale P, Bernardi M, Andreone P. Vitamin E for the treatment of E-antigen-positive chronic hepatitis B in paediatric patients: results of a randomized phase 2 controlled study. Liver Int 2017; 37:54-61. [PMID: 27333382 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) in children is still an area of great uncertainty. Vitamin E is an immunostimulating/antioxidant compound proven to be safe and effective for the treatment of adult CHB. The aim of this phase 2 controlled study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of vitamin E for the treatment of paediatric HBeAg-positive CHB. METHODS Forty-six children were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive vitamin E at a dose of 15 mg/kg/day (in galenic preparation) or no treatment for 12 months and were monitored for the subsequent 12 months. Clinical, biochemical, haematological and serovirological evaluations were carried out every 3 months. RESULTS No significant side effects were associated with the vitamin E treatment. At the end of the study, anti-HBe seroconversion was obtained in 7 of 23 (30.4%) of vitamin E-treated versus 1 of 23 (4.3%) of the control patients (P = 0.05), while a virological response (≥2 log decrease in HBV-DNA from baseline) was observed in 9 of 23 (39.1%) vs. 2 of 23 (8.7%) respectively (P = 0.035). CONCLUSIONS Vitamin E administration for the treatment of paediatric CHB at the tested dosage has no significant side effects and may induce anti-HBe seroconversion. Vitamin E could represent a tool for the treatment of paediatric CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale Maggiore, AUSL Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Loggi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gabriella Verucchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Donatella Comparcola
- Unità Operativa Malattie Epatometaboliche, Ospedale Pediatrico del Bambin Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | - Ranka Vukotic
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Pavoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Grandini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carmela Cursaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Maselli
- Unità Operativa di Farmacia Clinica, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Puggioli
- Unità Operativa di Farmacia Clinica, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Badia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Galli
- Unità Operativa di Microbiologia e Virologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Viale
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mauro Bernardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Pietro Andreone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S. Dental worm disease. Infez Med 2016; 24:349-358. [PMID: 28011975] [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: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
During human evolution, the period in which groups of humans stopped harvesting fruits and seeds growing wild and introduced the cultivation of cereals as well as the domestication of animals represents a very important event. This circumstance had a considerable impact on human pathocenosis, increasing the risk of infectious diseases of animal origin. The aim of this review was to summarise the archaeological and palaeo-pathological evidence in the literature concerning this topic. Starting from early prehistory (about 1.5 million years ago) up to the historical period, several authors have described the changes in human habits and the consequent changes in food supply, leading to the transition from a protein- to a carbohydrate-rich diet across a broad interval of time. This led to additional problems for human health. The increased accumulation of carbohydrate debris in the odonto-stomatological apparatus, without the appropriate use of hygiene in the oral cavity, increased the risk of infectious disease involving the mouth. Therefore, since the Neolithic period there has been a higher risk of tooth caries, abscesses, deep infection of the teeth roots, reaching also the mandibular and maxillary bone. Several hypotheses have been proposed by the distinct civilizations, which have alternated in the different ages, to explain the cause of these human health problems, including the idea that a "dental worm" could be involved in this process, such as in the Sumerian period. We describe and discuss further modifications of this theory, developed in Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, China, Greece, in Etruscan cities and in Rome in ancient times as well as in the Middle Ages, and the evolution of scientific thought on this topic in the past 300 years. In addition, the results of some palaeo-pathological studies, which were performed on human remains, such as the maxillary bone and teeth, mainly in different geographical areas in Italy, are examined and reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Universitá degli Studi di Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unitá Operativa Semplice Dipartimentale, Medicina Interna, Ospedale Maggiore, Bologna, Azienda Unitá Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Italy
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Sabbatani S, Fiorino S. Pestilence, riots, lynchings and desecration of corpses. The sleep of reason produces monsters. Infez Med 2016; 24:163-171. [PMID: 27367330] [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: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Vampirism has been a component of Central European and Balkan folklore since the Middle Ages and was often believed to be responsible for the transmission of serious infectious diseases such as plague and tuberculosis/consumption. Vampirism was believed to be spread within the same family or village and if the rite of the so-called second burial after death was not performed. The practice of "second burial" entailed exhumation of the body and the removal of the shroud from the mouth of the corpse, and a search for evidence if the corpse had chewed the cloth. If the shroud was chewed, a handful of earth or a brick was put into the body's mouth so that the vampire could no longer harm others. In some cases, the corpse was decapitated and an awl, made of ash, was thrust into its chest. Furthermore, the limbs were nailed down to prevent its movements. Remarkably, these beliefs were not restricted to the popular classes, but were also debated by theologians, political scientists at the height of the eighteenth century (Enlightenment). In the Habsburg Empire, this question attained such important political, social as well as health connotations as to force the Empress Maria Theresa to entrust an ad hoc study to her personal physician Gerard van Swieten with a view to determining what was true about the apparitions of vampires that occurred throughout central Europe and in the Balkans. The result of this investigation led to a ban on the "second burial" rites. Despite this prohibition, the practice of necrophilia on the bodies of suspected people continued, and both a cultured and popular literature on vampirism continued to flourish well into the nineteenth century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sabbatani
- Unità Operativa di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università di Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Italy
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani ML, Visani M, Acquaviva G, Fornelli A, Masetti M, Tura A, Grizzi F, Zanello M, Mastrangelo L, Lombardi R, Di Tommaso L, Bondi A, Sabbatani S, Domanico A, Fabbri C, Leandri P, Pession A, Jovine E, de Biase D. MicroRNAs as possible biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of hepatitis B- and C-related-hepatocellular-carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:3907-3936. [PMID: 27099435 PMCID: PMC4823242 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i15.3907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 03/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim of the present review is to summarize the current knowledge about the potential relationship between miRNAs and hepatitis B virus (HBV)-hepatitis C virus (HCV) related liver diseases. A systematic computer-based search of published articles, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis Statement, was performed to identify relevant studies on usefulness of serum/plasma/urine miRNAs, as noninvasive biomarkers for early detection of HBV and HCV-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, as well as for its prognostic evaluation. The used Medical Subject Headings terms and keywords were: “HBV”, “HCV”, “hepatocellular carcinoma”, “microRNAs”, “miRNAs”, “diagnosis”, “prognosis”, “therapy”, “treatment”. Some serum/plasma miRNAs, including miR-21, miR-122, mi-125a/b, miR-199a/b, miR-221, miR-222, miR-223, miR-224 might serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis/prognosis of HCC, but, to date, not definitive results or well-defined panels of miRNAs have been obtained. More well-designed studies, focusing on populations of different geographical areas and involving larger series of patients, should be carried out to improve our knowledge on the potential role of miRNAs for HCC early detection and prognosis.
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani L, Detotto E, Battilana M, Borghi E, Denitto C, Dickmans C, Facchini B, Moretti R, Parini S, Testi M, Zamboni A, Cuppini A, Pisani L, Nava S. Efficacy of non-invasive mechanical ventilation in the general ward in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease admitted for hypercapnic acute respiratory failure and pH < 7.35: a feasibility pilot study. Intern Med J 2016; 45:527-37. [PMID: 25684643 DOI: 10.1111/imj.12726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM To date non-invasive (NIV) mechanical ventilation use is not recommended in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) and pH < 7.30 outside a 'protected environment'. We assessed NIV efficacy and feasibility in improving arterial blood gases (ABG) and in-hospital outcome in patients with ARF and severe respiratory acidosis (RA) admitted to an experienced rural medical ward. METHODS This paper is a prospective pilot cohort study conducted in the General Medicine Ward of Budrio's District Hospital. Two hundred and seventy-two patients with ARF were admitted to our Department, 112, meeting predefined inclusion criteria (pH < 7.35, PaCO2 > 45 mmHg). Patients were divided according to the severity of acidosis into: group A (pH < 7.26), group B (7.26 ≤ pH < 7.30) and group C (7.30 ≤ pH < 7.35). ABG were assessed at admission, at 2-6 h, 24 h, 48 h and at discharge. RESULTS Group A included 55 patients (24 men, mean age: 80.8 ± 8.3 years), group B 31 (12 men, mean age: 80.3 ± 9.4 years) and group C 26 (15 men, mean age: 78.6 ± 9.9 years). ABG improved within the first hours in 92/112 (82%) patients, who were all successfully discharged. Eighteen percent (20/112) of the patients died during the hospital stay, no significant difference emerged in mortality rate (MR) within the groups (23%, 16% and 8%, for groups A, B and C, respectively) and between patients with or without pneumonia: 8/29 (27%) versus 12/83 (14%). On multivariable analysis, only age and Glasgow Coma Scale had an impact on the clinical outcome. CONCLUSION In a non-'highly protected' environment such as an experienced medical ward of a rural hospital, NIV is effective not only in patients with mild, but also with severe forms of RA. MR did not vary according to the level of initial pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Bacchi-Reggiani
- Istituto di Cardiologia, Azienda Ospedaliera Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Department of Specialist, Diagnostic, and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Detotto
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Battilana
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Borghi
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Denitto
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Dickmans
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - B Facchini
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Moretti
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - S Parini
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Testi
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Zamboni
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - A Cuppini
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna), Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Pisani
- Terapia Intensiva Pneumologia S. Orsola, Azienda Ospedaliera Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Department of Specialist, Diagnostic, and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - S Nava
- Terapia Intensiva Pneumologia S. Orsola, Azienda Ospedaliera Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Department of Specialist, Diagnostic, and Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani L, de Biase D, Fornelli A, Masetti M, Tura A, Grizzi F, Zanello M, Mastrangelo L, Lombardi R, Acquaviva G, di Tommaso L, Bondi A, Visani M, Sabbatani S, Pontoriero L, Fabbri C, Cuppini A, Pession A, Jovine E. Possible association between hepatitis C virus and malignancies different from hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:12896-12953. [PMID: 26668515 PMCID: PMC4671046 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i45.12896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To summarize the current knowledge about the potential relationship between hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and the risk of several extra-liver cancers.
METHODS: We performed a systematic review of the literature, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Statement. We extracted the pertinent articles, published in MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library, using the following search terms: neoplasm/cancer/malignancy/tumor/carcinoma/adeno-carcinoma and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, kidney/renal-, cholangio-, pancreatic-, thyroid-, breast-,oral-, skin-, prostate-, lung-, colon-, stomach-, haematologic. Case series, case-series with control-group, case-control, cohort-studies as well as meta-analyses, written in English were collected. Some of the main characteristics of retrieved trials, which were designed to investigate the prevalence of HCV infection in each type of the above-mentioned human malignancies were summarised. A main table was defined and included a short description in the text for each of these tumours, whether at least five studies about a specific neoplasm, meeting inclusion criteria, were available in literature. According to these criteria, we created the following sections and the corresponding tables and we indicated the number of included or excluded articles, as well as of meta-analyses and reviews: (1) HCV and haematopoietic malignancies; (2) HCV and cholangiocarcinoma; (3) HCV and pancreatic cancer; (4) HCV and breast cancer; (5) HCV and kidney cancer; (6) HCV and skin or oral cancer; and (7) HCV and thyroid cancer.
RESULTS: According to available data, a clear correlation between regions of HCV prevalence and risk of extra-liver cancers has emerged only for a very small group of types and histological subtypes of malignancies. In particular, HCV infection has been associated with: (1) a higher incidence of some B-cell Non-Hodgkin-Lymphoma types, in countries, where an elevated prevalence of this pathogen is detectable, accounting to a percentage of about 10%; (2) an increased risk of intra-hepatic cholangiocarcinoma; and (3) a correlation between HCV prevalence and pancreatic cancer (PAC) incidence.
CONCLUSION: To date no definitive conclusions may be obtained from the analysis of relationship between HCV and extra-hepatic cancers. Further studies, recruiting an adequate number of patients are required to confirm or deny this association.
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Visani M, Acquaviva G, Fiorino S, Bacchi Reggiani ML, Masetti M, Franceschi E, Fornelli A, Jovine E, Fabbri C, Brandes AA, Tallini G, Pession A, de Biase D. Contribution of microRNA analysis to characterisation of pancreatic lesions: a review. J Clin Pathol 2015; 68:859-69. [PMID: 26314585 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2015-203246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/05/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic tumours are usually very aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis. A limitation of pancreatic imaging techniques is that lesions are often of ambiguous relevance. The inability to achieve a definitive diagnosis based on cytological evaluation of specimens, due to sampling error, paucicellular samples or coexisting inflammation, might lead to delay in clinical management. Given the morbidity associated with pancreatectomy, a proper selection of patients for surgery is fundamental. Many studies have been conducted in order to identify specific markers that could support the early diagnosis of pancreatic lesions, but, to date, none of them allow to diagnose pancreatic cancer with high sensitivity and specificity. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small non-coding RNAs (19-25 nucleotides) that regulate gene expression interacting with mRNA targets. It is now established that each tissue shows a characteristic miRNA expression pattern that could be modified in association with a number of different diseases including neoplasia. Due to their key role in the regulation of gene expression, in the last years several studies have investigated miRNA tissue-specific expression, quantification and functional analysis to understand their peculiar involvement in cellular processes. The aim of this review is to focus on miRNA expression in pancreatic cancer and their putative role in early characterisation of pancreatic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Visani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sirio Fiorino
- Operative Unit of Medicine, Budrio Hospital, Budrio, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Bacchi Reggiani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Cardiology Unit, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Franceschi
- Medical Oncology Department, Bellaria Hospital, Azienda USL/ IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences, Bologna, Italy
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Surgery Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Fabbri
- Endoscopy Unit, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alba A Brandes
- Medical Oncology Department, Bellaria Hospital, Azienda USL/ IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pession
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Fiorino S, Detotto E, Nava S. Author reply. Intern Med J 2015; 45:1202-3. [DOI: 10.1111/imj.12885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna; Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna); Department of Internal Medicine; Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna; Bologna Italy
| | - E. Detotto
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna; Ospedale di Budrio (Bologna); Department of Internal Medicine; Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale di Bologna; Bologna Italy
| | - S. Nava
- Terapia Intensiva Pneumologia S. Orsola; Azienda Ospedaliera Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi; Department of Specialist, Diagnostic, and Experimental Medicine; School of Medicine; University of Bologna; Bologna Italy
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Fiorino S, de Biase D, Fornelli A, Masetti M, Cuppini A, Bondi A, Tallini G, Jovine E, Pession A. Hepatitis B virus infection and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor: a case report. Pancreas 2015; 44:341-2. [PMID: 25675420 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000000268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
MESH Headings
- Aged
- Biopsy
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/surgery
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/virology
- DNA, Viral/genetics
- Fatal Outcome
- Hepatectomy
- Hepatitis B virus/genetics
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/complications
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/diagnosis
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Liver Neoplasms/surgery
- Liver Neoplasms/virology
- Male
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/pathology
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/surgery
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/virology
- Neuroendocrine Tumors/pathology
- Neuroendocrine Tumors/surgery
- Neuroendocrine Tumors/virology
- Pancreatectomy
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/surgery
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/virology
- Risk Factors
- Time Factors
- Treatment Outcome
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna Ospedale di Budrio, Budrio Bologna, Italy Dipartimento di Medicina Diagnostica e Sperimentale Ospedale Bellaria Università di Bologna Bologna, Italy Unità Operativa di Anatomia Patologica Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Bologna Maggiore Hospital Bologna, Italy Unità Operativa di Chirurgia A Ospedale Maggiore Bologna, Italy Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna Ospedale di Budrio, Budrio Bologna, Italy Unità Operativa di Anatomia Patologica Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Bologna Maggiore Hospital Bologna, Italy Dipartimento di Medicina Diagnostica e Sperimentale Ospedale Bellaria Università di Bologna Bologna, Italy Unità Operativa di Chirurgia A Ospedale Maggiore Bologna, Italy Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie Università di Bologna Bologna, Italy
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45
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani L, Sabbatani S, Grizzi F, di Tommaso L, Masetti M, Fornelli A, Bondi A, de Biase D, Visani M, Cuppini A, Jovine E, Pession A. Possible role of tocopherols in the modulation of host microRNA with potential antiviral activity in patients with hepatitis B virus-related persistent infection: a systematic review. Br J Nutr 2014; 112:1751-68. [PMID: 25325563 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114514002839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection represents a serious global health problem and persistent HBV infection is associated with an increased risk of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and liver failure. Recently, the study of the role of microRNA (miRNA) in the pathogenesis of HBV has gained considerable interest as well as new treatments against this pathogen have been approved. A few studies have investigated the antiviral activity of vitamin E (VE) in chronic HBV carriers. Herein, we review the possible role of tocopherols in the modulation of host miRNA with potential anti-HBV activity. A systematic research of the scientific literature was performed by searching the MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and EMBASE databases. The keywords used were 'HBV therapy', 'HBV treatment', 'VE antiviral effects', 'tocopherol antiviral activity', 'miRNA antiviral activity' and 'VE microRNA'. Reports describing the role of miRNA in the regulation of HBV life cycle, in vitro and in vivo available studies reporting the effects of VE on miRNA expression profiles and epigenetic networks, and clinical trials reporting the use of VE in patients with HBV-related chronic hepatitis were identified and examined. Based on the clinical results obtained in VE-treated chronic HBV carriers, we provide a reliable hypothesis for the possible role of this vitamin in the modulation of host miRNA profiles perturbed by this viral pathogen and in the regulation of some cellular miRNA with a suggested potential anti-HBV activity. This approach may contribute to the improvement of our understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms involved in HBV infection and increase the possibility of its management and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fiorino
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio,Via Benni 44,40065Budrio, Bologna,Italy
| | - L Bacchi-Reggiani
- Istituto di Cardiologia, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna,Bologna,Italy
| | - S Sabbatani
- Istituto di Malattie Infettive, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università degli Studi di Bologna,Bologna,Italy
| | - F Grizzi
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center,Rozzano, Milano,Italy
| | - L di Tommaso
- Humanitas Clinical and Research Center,Rozzano, Milano,Italy
| | - M Masetti
- Unità Operativa di Chirurgia A, Ospedale Maggiore Bologna,Bologna,Italy
| | - A Fornelli
- Servizio di Anatomia Patologica, Ospedale Maggiore,Bologna,Italy
| | - A Bondi
- Servizio di Anatomia Patologica, Ospedale Maggiore,Bologna,Italy
| | - D de Biase
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale,Università di Bologna, Ospedale Bellaria,Bologna,Italy
| | - M Visani
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie,Università di Bologna,Bologna,Italy
| | - A Cuppini
- Unità Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio,Via Benni 44,40065Budrio, Bologna,Italy
| | - E Jovine
- Unità Operativa di Chirurgia A, Ospedale Maggiore Bologna,Bologna,Italy
| | - A Pession
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie,Università di Bologna,Bologna,Italy
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Gnerre P, La Regina M, Ballardini G, Chesi G, Granata P, Scanelli G, Fiorino S, Dentali F, Nardi R. How to write a case report? Guidelines for Internists. Ital J Med 2014. [DOI: 10.4081/itjm.2014.535] [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: 11/23/2022] Open
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47
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani L, Pontoriero L, Gallo C, Chili E, Masetti M, Zanini N, Grondona A, Silvestri T, Deleonardi G, Fornelli A, Bondi A, de Biase D, Baccarini P, Tallini G, Tropeano A, Quartuccio V, Cuppini A, Castellani G, Jovine E. Tensegrity model hypothesis: may this paradigm be useful to explain hepatic and pancreatic carcinogenesis in patients with persistent hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus infection? JOP 2014; 15:151-64. [PMID: 24618442 DOI: 10.6092/1590-8577/2099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2013] [Revised: 12/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) possess well-known oncogenic properties and may promote carcinogenesis in liver. However antigens and replicative sequences of HBV/HCV have been also detected in different extra-hepatic tissues, including the pancreas. Although epidemiological studies and meta-analyses have recently suggested that HBV/HCV may be also risk factors for pancreatic cancer and several researches have investigated the possible mechanisms and intra-/extra-cellular paths involved in pancreatic and hepatic carcinogenesis, to date, these complex processes remain largely unexplained. OBJECTIVES In our paper, we aimed to propose a comprehensive and qualitative hypothetical model, describing how HBV/HCV may exert their oncogenic role. METHODS We performed a systematic research of scientific literature, by searching MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library and EMBASE databases. The used keywords were: "chronic HBV/HCV", "pancreatic cancer", "liver carcinoma", "carcinogenesis mechanisms", "tensional integrity", "cytoskeleton", and "extracellular matrix". RESULTS Taking advantage from available studies, we suggest an unifying hypothesis based on results and data, obtained from different areas of research. In particular we considered the well-defined model of tensional integrity and correlated it to changes induced by HBV/HCV in viscoelastic properties/stiffness of cellular/extracellular microenvironments. These events perturb the tightly-regulated feedback loop, which usually couples the intracellular-generated forces to substrate rigidity of extracellular compartments. Therefore, such a change strongly affects intracellular functions and cellular fate, by promoting a substantial deregulation of critical intracellular biochemical activities and genome expression. CONCLUSIONS Our hypothesis might provide for the first time a reliable system, which correlates tensional integrity model with intra-/extra-cellular modifications, occurring in liver and pancreas during HBV/HCV-induced carcinogenesis. This approach might improve our understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the development of pancreatic and hepatic carcinogenesis , enhancing the possibility of their treatment. Furthermore, should the usefulness of this model be definitively confirmed, it might be also helpful to extend its field of application to other viruses-related cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Budrio. Budrio, BO, Italy.
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48
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani L, Pontoriero L, Gallo C, Chili E, Masetti M, Zanini N, Grondona A, Silvestri T, Deleonardi G, Fornelli A, Bondi A, de Biase D, Baccarini P, Tallini G, Tropeano A, Quartuccio V, Cuppini A, Castellani G, Jovine E. Tensegrity model hypothesis: may this paradigm be useful to explain hepatic and pancreatic carcinogenesis in patients with persistent hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus infection? JOP 2014. [PMID: 24618442 DOI: 10.6092/1590-8577%2f2099] [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: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) possess well-known oncogenic properties and may promote carcinogenesis in liver. However antigens and replicative sequences of HBV/HCV have been also detected in different extra-hepatic tissues, including the pancreas. Although epidemiological studies and meta-analyses have recently suggested that HBV/HCV may be also risk factors for pancreatic cancer and several researches have investigated the possible mechanisms and intra-/extra-cellular paths involved in pancreatic and hepatic carcinogenesis, to date, these complex processes remain largely unexplained. OBJECTIVES In our paper, we aimed to propose a comprehensive and qualitative hypothetical model, describing how HBV/HCV may exert their oncogenic role. METHODS We performed a systematic research of scientific literature, by searching MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library and EMBASE databases. The used keywords were: "chronic HBV/HCV", "pancreatic cancer", "liver carcinoma", "carcinogenesis mechanisms", "tensional integrity", "cytoskeleton", and "extracellular matrix". RESULTS Taking advantage from available studies, we suggest an unifying hypothesis based on results and data, obtained from different areas of research. In particular we considered the well-defined model of tensional integrity and correlated it to changes induced by HBV/HCV in viscoelastic properties/stiffness of cellular/extracellular microenvironments. These events perturb the tightly-regulated feedback loop, which usually couples the intracellular-generated forces to substrate rigidity of extracellular compartments. Therefore, such a change strongly affects intracellular functions and cellular fate, by promoting a substantial deregulation of critical intracellular biochemical activities and genome expression. CONCLUSIONS Our hypothesis might provide for the first time a reliable system, which correlates tensional integrity model with intra-/extra-cellular modifications, occurring in liver and pancreas during HBV/HCV-induced carcinogenesis. This approach might improve our understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the development of pancreatic and hepatic carcinogenesis , enhancing the possibility of their treatment. Furthermore, should the usefulness of this model be definitively confirmed, it might be also helpful to extend its field of application to other viruses-related cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Budrio. Budrio, BO, Italy.
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Fiorino S, Bacchi-Reggiani L, Pontoriero L, Gallo C, Chili E, Masetti M, Zanini N, Grondona A, Silvestri T, Deleonardi G, Magrini E, Motta R, Fornelli A, Bondi A, De Biase D, Baccarini P, Tallini G, Tropeano A, Cuppini A, Castellani G, Jovine E. Pancreatic carcinoma development: new etiological and pathogenetic evidence. Ital J Med 2013. [DOI: 10.4081/itjm.2013.242] [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: 02/08/2023] Open
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50
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Unita Operativa di Medicina Interna, Ospedale di Budrio, Budrio (Bologna), Italy.
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