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Castellazzi M, Candeloro R, Trevisan C, Permunian S, Buscemi G, Ghisellini S, Negri G, Gilli G, Ferri C, Bellini T, Pizzicotti S, Pugliatti M. Sex Differences in Albumin Quotient and Cerebrospinal Fluid Total Protein Content Do Not Depend on Anthropometric Factors. J Pers Med 2024; 14:362. [PMID: 38672989 PMCID: PMC11051272 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040362] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/serum albumin quotient (QAlb) and CSF total protein (TP) are more elevated in males than females, and this has been hypothesised to be due to anthropometric differences between the sexes. This study aimed to investigate QAlb and CSF TP as a function of body height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). (2) Methods: A total of 207 patients were included in the study and analysed blinded to clinical diagnosis. (3) Results: Multivariable linear regressions were run to predict log-transformed Qalb and log-transformed CSF TP value from age, sex, weight, and height (first model) or from age, sex, and BMI (second model). In both models, age (β = 0.004, 95% CI = 0.002 to 0.006) and sex (β = -0.095, 95% CI = -0.169 to -0.021, and β = -0.135, 95% CI = -0.191 to -0.079) were significant predictors for QAlb, but weight, height, and BMI were not. Similarly, age (β = 0.004, 95% CI = 0.003 to 0.006) and sex (β = -0.077, 95% CI = -0.142 to -0.013, and β = -0.109, 95% CI = -0.157 to -0.060) were significant predictors for CSF TP, while anthropometric characteristics were not. No differences in QAlb and CSF TP were found when grouping males and females by BMI status. (4) Conclusions: Our data suggest that anthropometric characteristics could not explain the sex-related differences in QAlb and CSF TP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (R.C.); (S.P.); (G.B.); (G.G.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
- University Strategic Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Raffaella Candeloro
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (R.C.); (S.P.); (G.B.); (G.G.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Caterina Trevisan
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Samantha Permunian
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (R.C.); (S.P.); (G.B.); (G.G.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Gaia Buscemi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (R.C.); (S.P.); (G.B.); (G.G.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Sara Ghisellini
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, “S. Anna” University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (S.G.); (G.N.); (S.P.)
| | - Giovanna Negri
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, “S. Anna” University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (S.G.); (G.N.); (S.P.)
| | - Giada Gilli
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (R.C.); (S.P.); (G.B.); (G.G.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Caterina Ferri
- Department of Neuroscience, “S. Anna” University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (R.C.); (S.P.); (G.B.); (G.G.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
- University Strategic Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Pizzicotti
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, “S. Anna” University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (S.G.); (G.N.); (S.P.)
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (R.C.); (S.P.); (G.B.); (G.G.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
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2
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Candore G, Accardi G, Aiello A, Baggio G, Bellini T, Calabrese V, Carreca AP, Carreca I, Masucci A, Cattaneo M, Dato S, Bona DD, Fabris L, Gambino C, Lorenzo GD, Francescschi C, Ligotti ME, Manfrinato MC, Puca AA, Tamburello M, Vassallo R, Caruso C. Sex and Gender in Ageing and Longevity: Highlights From an International Course. Transl Med UniSa 2024; 26:15-29. [PMID: 38560614 PMCID: PMC10980291 DOI: 10.37825/2239-9747.1049] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Gender medicine is a multidisciplinary science and represents an important perspective for pathophysiological and clinical studies in the third millennium. Here, it is provided an overview of the topics discussed in a recent course on the Role of Sex and Gender in Ageing and Longevity. The paper highlights three themes discussed in the course, i.e., the interaction of gender/sex with, i) the pathophysiology of age-related diseases; ii), the role of genetics and epigenetics in ageing and longevity and, iii) the immune responses of older people to pathogens, vaccines, autoantigens, and allergens. Although largely unexplored, it is clear that sex and gender are modulators of disease biology and treatment outcomes. It is becoming evident that men and women should no longer be considered as subgroups, but as biologically distinct groups of patients deserving consideration for specific therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Candore
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Giulia Accardi
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Anna Aiello
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Giovannella Baggio
- Italian Center for Studies on Gender Health and Medicine, Padua University-Hospital, Padua,
Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara,
Italy
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara,
Italy
| | - Vittorio Calabrese
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania,
Italy
| | | | - Ignazio Carreca
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Surgical, Oncological and Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Anna Masucci
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, Palermo,
Italy
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | | | - Serena Dato
- Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende,
Italy
| | - Danilo D. Bona
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia,
Italy
| | - Luca Fabris
- Italian Center for Studies on Gender Health and Medicine, Padua University-Hospital, Padua,
Italy
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua,
Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Digestive Disease Section, Yale University, New Haven, CT,
USA
| | - Caterina Gambino
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, Palermo,
Italy
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Gabriele D. Lorenzo
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Claudio Francescschi
- Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics, Lobachevsky State University, Nizhny Novgorod,
Russia
- Institute of Biogerontology, Lobachevsky State University, Nizhny Novgorod,
Russia
| | - Mattia E. Ligotti
- Department of Research, ISMETT-IRCCS Mediterranean Institute for Transplants and Highly Specialized Therapies, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Maria C. Manfrinato
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara,
Italy
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara,
Italy
| | - Annibale A. Puca
- Cardiovascular Department, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan,
Italy
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno,
Italy
| | - Martina Tamburello
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, Palermo,
Italy
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Roberta Vassallo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital “P.Giaccone”, Palermo,
Italy
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
| | - Calogero Caruso
- Laboratory of Immunopathology and Immunosenescence, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo,
Italy
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Musumano LB, Hatzopoulos S, Fancello V, Bianchini C, Bellini T, Pelucchi S, Skarżyński PH, Skarżyńska MB, Ciorba A. Hyperacusis: Focus on Gender Differences: A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2092. [PMID: 37895473 PMCID: PMC10608418 DOI: 10.3390/life13102092] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While gender differences of several diseases have been already described in the literature, studies in the area of hyperacusis are still scant. Despite the fact that hyperacusis is a condition that severely affects the patient's quality of life, it is not well investigated; a comprehensive understanding of its features, eventually including gender differences, could be a valuable asset in developing clinical intervention strategies. AIM To evaluate gender differences among subjects affected by hyperacusis. METHODS A literature search was conducted focused on adult patients presenting hyperacusis, using the MedLine bibliographic database. Relevant peer-reviewed studies, published in the last 20 years, were sought. A total of 259 papers have been identified, but only 4 met the inclusion criteria. The review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS The four selected papers included data from 604 patients; of these, 282 subjects resulted as affected by hyperacusis (125 females and 157 males). Questionnaires for analyzing factors affecting the attentional, social and emotional variance of hyperacusis (such as VAS, THI, TSCH, MASH) were administered to all included subjects. The data suggest that there are no hyperacusis gender-specific differences in the assessed population samples. CONCLUSIONS The literature data suggest that males and females exhibit a similar level of hyperacusis. However, in light of the subjective nature of this condition, the eventual set up of further tests to assess hyperacusis features could be very helpful in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Belen Musumano
- ENT and Audiology Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.B.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.); (S.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Stavros Hatzopoulos
- ENT and Audiology Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.B.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.); (S.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Virginia Fancello
- ENT and Audiology Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.B.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.); (S.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Chiara Bianchini
- ENT and Audiology Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.B.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.); (S.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Stefano Pelucchi
- ENT and Audiology Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.B.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.); (S.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Piotr Henryk Skarżyński
- Institute of Sensory Organs, 1 Mokra Street, 05-830 Kajetany, Poland; (P.H.S.); (M.B.S.)
- Department of Teleaudiology and Screening, World Hearing Center, Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing, 10 Mochnackiego Street, 02-042 Warsaw, Poland
- Heart Failure and Cardiac Rehabilitation Department, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 8 Kondratowicza Street, 03-242 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena B. Skarżyńska
- Institute of Sensory Organs, 1 Mokra Street, 05-830 Kajetany, Poland; (P.H.S.); (M.B.S.)
- Center of Hearing and Speech Medincus, 05-830 Warsaw, Poland
- Pharmacy Department, Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutical Care, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-042 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrea Ciorba
- ENT and Audiology Unit, Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (L.B.M.); (S.H.); (C.B.); (S.P.); (A.C.)
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4
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Almugadam SH, Trentini A, Maritati M, Contini C, Manfrinato MC, Cervellati C, Bellini T, Hanau S. A Calcium- and GTP-Dependent Transglutaminase in Leishmania infantum. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10030234. [PMID: 36977273 PMCID: PMC10053793 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10030234] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
While human and animal leishmaniasis affect several millions of people worldwide, L. infantum is the species responsible for visceral leishmaniasis in Europe, Middle East, and America. Antileishmanial drugs present issues associated with drug toxicity and increasing parasite resistance. Therefore, the study of this parasite with a focus on new potential drug targets is extremely useful. Accordingly, we purified and characterized a transglutaminase (TGase) from L. infantum promastigotes. While Tgases are known to be involved in cell death and autophagy, it appears that these functions are very important for parasites' virulence. For the first time, we showed a Ca2+- and GTP-dependent TGase in Leishmania corresponding to a 54 kDa protein, which was purified by two chromatographic steps: DEAE-Sepharose and Heparin-Sepharose. Using polyclonal antibodies against a 50-amino-acid conserved region of the catalytic core of human TGase 2, we revealed two other bands of 66 and 75 kDa. The 54 kDa band appears to be different from the previously reported TGase, which was shown to be Ca2+- independent. Future research should address the identification of the purified enzyme sequence and, subsequently, its cloning to more comprehensively investigate its pathophysiological function and possible differences from mammal enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawgi Hago Almugadam
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Nile Avenue, P.O. Box 321, Khartoum 51111, Sudan
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Contini
- Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Manfrinato
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Hanau
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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5
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Trentini A, Manfrinato MC, Castellazzi M, Bellini T. Sex-Related Differences of Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs): New Perspectives for These Biomarkers in Cardiovascular and Neurological Diseases. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12081196. [PMID: 35893290 PMCID: PMC9331234 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now established that sex differences occur in clinical manifestation, disease progression, and prognosis for both cardiovascular (CVDs) and central nervous system (CNS) disorders. As such, a great deal of effort is now being put into understanding these differences and turning them into “advantages”: (a) for the discovery of new sex-specific biomarkers and (b) through a review of old biomarkers from the perspective of the “newly” discovered sex/gender medicine. This is also true for matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes involved in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling, which play a role in both CVDs and CNS disorders. However, most of the studies conducted up to now relegated sex to a mere confounding variable used for statistical model correction rather than a determining factor that can influence MMP levels and, in turn, disease prognosis. Consistently, this approach causes a loss of information that might help clinicians in identifying novel patterns and improve the applicability of MMPs in clinical practice by providing sex-specific threshold values. In this scenario, the current review aims to gather the available knowledge on sex-related differences in MMPs levels in CVDs and CNS conditions, hoping to shed light on their use as sex-specific biomarkers of disease prognosis or progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Manfrinato
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.C.M.); (T.B.)
| | - Massimiliano Castellazzi
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.C.M.); (T.B.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (M.C.M.); (T.B.)
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Bellini T, Bustaffa M, Caorsi R, Tibaldi J, Gattorno M, Piccotti E. The Incidence of Multisystem Inflammatory syndrome in a Pediatric Emergency Department. Acta Paediatr 2022; 111:1819-1820. [PMID: 35778905 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T Bellini
- Paediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine, Gaslini Children Hospital, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Bustaffa
- Paediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine, Gaslini Children Hospital, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy.,Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Riabilitazione, Oftalmologia, Genetica e Scienze Materno-Infantile (DINOGMI), University of genoa, Genoa
| | - R Caorsi
- Centro Malattie Autoinfiammatorie e Immunodeficienze, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - J Tibaldi
- Paediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine, Gaslini Children Hospital, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Gattorno
- Centro Malattie Autoinfiammatorie e Immunodeficienze, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - E Piccotti
- Paediatric Emergency Room and Emergency Medicine, Gaslini Children Hospital, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
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7
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Spadaro S, Dalla Corte F, Scaramuzzo G, Grasso S, Cinnella G, Rosta V, Chiavieri V, Alvisi V, Di Mussi R, Volta CA, Bellini T, Trentini A. Circulating Skeletal Troponin During Weaning From Mechanical Ventilation and Their Association to Diaphragmatic Function: A Pilot Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:770408. [PMID: 35004739 PMCID: PMC8727747 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.770408] [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: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) may need mechanical ventilation (MV), which can lead to diaphragmatic dysfunction and muscle wasting, thus making difficult the weaning from the ventilator. Currently, there are no biomarkers specific for respiratory muscle and their function can only be assessed trough ultrasound or other invasive methods. Previously, the fast and slow isoform of the skeletal troponin I (fsTnI and ssTnI, respectively) have shown to be specific markers of muscle damage in healthy volunteers. We aimed therefore at describing the trend of skeletal troponin in mixed population of ICU patients undergoing weaning from mechanical ventilation and compared the value of fsTnI and ssTnI with diaphragmatic ultrasound derived parameters. Methods: In this prospective observational study we enrolled consecutive patients recovering from acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) within 24 h from the start of weaning. Every day an arterial blood sample was collected to measure fsTnI, ssTnI, and global markers of muscle damage, such as ALT, AST, and CPK. Moreover, thickening fraction (TF) and diaphragmatic displacement (DE) were assessed by diaphragmatic ultrasound. The trend of fsTnI and ssTnI was evaluated during the first 3 days of weaning. Results: We enrolled 62 consecutive patients in the study, with a mean age of 67 ± 13 years and 43 of them (69%) were male. We did not find significant variations in the ssTnI trend (p = 0.623), but fsTnI significantly decreased over time by 30% from Day 1 to Day 2 and by 20% from Day 2 to Day 3 (p < 0.05). There was a significant interaction effect between baseline ssTnI and DE [F(2) = 4.396, p = 0.015], with high basal levels of ssTnI being associated to a higher decrease in DE. On the contrary, the high basal levels of fsTnI at day 1 were characterized by significant higher DE at each time point. Conclusions: Skeletal muscle proteins have a distinctive pattern of variation during weaning from mechanical ventilation. At day 1, a high basal value of ssTnI were associated to a higher decrease over time of diaphragmatic function while high values of fsTnI were associated to a higher displacement at each time point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savino Spadaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- *Correspondence: Savino Spadaro
| | - Francesca Dalla Corte
- Department of Translational Medicine, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center-Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Gaetano Scaramuzzo
- Department of Translational Medicine, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Salvatore Grasso
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Gilda Cinnella
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Valentina Rosta
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Chiavieri
- Department of Translational Medicine, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Alvisi
- Department of Translational Medicine, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rosa Di Mussi
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Carlo Alberto Volta
- Department of Translational Medicine, Anesthesia and Intensive Care, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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8
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Castellazzi M, Pizzicotti S, Lombardo I, Alfiero S, Morotti A, Pellegatti P, Negri G, Natali L, Ferri C, Fainardi E, Bellini T, Pugliatti M. Sexual dimorphism in the cerebrospinal fluid total protein content. Clin Chem Lab Med 2021; 58:1885-1890. [PMID: 32598300 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2020-0419] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless body fluid filling the central nervous system. The determination of the CSF total protein (TP) content represents an important screening test of various pathologies. We aimed to address the effect of sex and age on CSF-TP content and the use of the current upper reference limits (URLs). Methods CSF-TP content was analysed in a selected population of 1,252 patients (648 women and 604 men; age 18-89 years) who underwent lumbar puncture as a part of the diagnostic work-up. Samples presenting (i) more than 5 white blood cells (WBC)/µL, (ii) discolorations and (iii) reduced glucose were not included. Results The CSF-TP content median values were significantly higher in men than in women (46 vs. 37 mg/dL) even after adjusting for age and different hospital inpatients. CSF-TP content positively correlated with age both in men and in women with a constant difference between sexes of 8.5 mg/dL. Applying the most used URLs (mainly 45 and 50 mg/dL, but also 60 mg/dL), men received a laboratory report suggestive of altered CSF-TP content more frequently than women. The use of age- and sex-calibrated CSF-TP URLs reduced, but not eliminated, this sex-gap. Conclusions Using the current URLs, a condition of "elevated CSF-TP content" may be overestimated in men or, conversely, underestimated in women, regardless of the age and of the diagnosis. These results highlighted the need to apply CSF-TP URLs values normalized for both sex and age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Pizzicotti
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, "S. Anna" University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilenia Lombardo
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sarah Alfiero
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Pellegatti
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, "S. Anna" University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanna Negri
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, "S. Anna" University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lara Natali
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, "S. Anna" University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Caterina Ferri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Fainardi
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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9
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Trentini A, Rosta V, Spadaro S, Bellini T, Rizzo P, Vieceli Dalla Sega F, Passaro A, Zuliani G, Gentili V, Campo G, Cervellati C. Development, optimization and validation of an absolute specific assay for active myeloperoxidase (MPO) and its application in a clinical context: role of MPO specific activity in coronary artery disease. Clin Chem Lab Med 2021; 58:1749-1758. [PMID: 32031967 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2019-0817] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an enzyme with a recognized prognostic role in coronary artery disease (CAD), which is also emerging as a promising biomarker for cardiac risk stratification. However, the lack of a consensus method for its quantification has hindered its implementation in clinical practice. The aim of our work was to optimize an absolute sensitive assay for active MPO without external standards, to validate the method in the clinical context of CAD patients, and to estimate the enzyme specific activity. Methods In order to determine the MPO concentration using fluorescence readings, this ELISA assay exploits the activity of the enzyme recognized by specific antibodies. The assay was validated in a small cohort of patients that included: healthy subjects (n=60); patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI, n=25); patients with stable CAD (SCAD, n=25) and a concomitant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Then, total MPO concentration and specific activity (activity/total MPO) were determined. Results The assay showed an intra- and inter-assay coefficient of variation of 5.8% and 10.4%, respectively, with a limit of detection (LoD) of 0.074 μU. Both AMI and SCAD patients had higher active and total MPO than controls (p<0.0001 and p<0.01, respectively). The specific activity of MPO was higher in SCAD patients compared to both controls and AMI (p<0.0001). Conclusions The study presents a robust and sensitive method for assaying MPO activity in biological fluids with low variability. Moreover, the determination of the specific activity could provide novel insight into the role of MPO in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Rosta
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Savino Spadaro
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paola Rizzo
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care and Research, Cotignola, Italy
| | | | - Angelina Passaro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Internal and Cardio Respiratory Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zuliani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gianluca Campo
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care and Research, Cotignola, Italy.,Cardiovascular Institute, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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10
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Castellazzi M, Ferri C, Alfiero S, Lombardo I, Laudisi M, Tecilla G, Boni M, Pizzicotti S, Fainardi E, Bellini T, Pugliatti M. Sex-Related Differences in Cerebrospinal Fluid Plasma-Derived Proteins of Neurological Patients. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11050884. [PMID: 34065720 PMCID: PMC8156001 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11050884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein content presents a sexual dimorphism in humans. We investigated sex-related differences in CSF IgG levels and in the quantification of intrathecal IgG synthesis (IIS). Methods: CSF, serum albumin and IgG were measured in 1519 neurological patients and both linear and hyperbolic formulas were used for the quantification of IIS. CSF-restricted oligoclonal IgG bands (OCBs) were used as “gold standard”. Results: The linear IgG Index showed a weak agreement with OCBs in males and females (k = 0.559, k = 0.587, respectively), while the hyperbolic Reiber’s formulas had a moderate agreement with OCBs in females (k = 0.635) and a weak agreement in males (k = 0.565). Higher CSF albumin and IgG levels were found in men than in women in the whole population and in subjects without IIS after adjusting for age and for serum concentrations of albumin and IgG, respectively (Quade statistics, p < 0.000001). CSF and serum albumin and IgG levels positively correlated to age in both sexes. CSF total protein content did not correlate with CSF leukocyte numbers but was higher in patients with marked pleocytosis. Conclusions: In neurological patients, men have higher levels of CSF serum-derived proteins, such as albumin and IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0532-236388
| | - Caterina Ferri
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Sarah Alfiero
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Ilenia Lombardo
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Michele Laudisi
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Ginevra Tecilla
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
| | - Michela Boni
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, “S. Anna” University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (M.B.); (S.P.)
| | - Stefano Pizzicotti
- Chemical-Clinical Analysis Laboratory, “S. Anna” University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy; (M.B.); (S.P.)
| | - Enrico Fainardi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (C.F.); (S.A.); (I.L.); (M.L.); (G.T.); (T.B.); (M.P.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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11
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Corazzi V, Ciorba A, Skarżyński PH, Skarżyńska MB, Bianchini C, Stomeo F, Bellini T, Pelucchi S, Hatzopoulos S. Gender differences in audio-vestibular disorders. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2021; 34:2058738420929174. [PMID: 32525749 PMCID: PMC7290256 DOI: 10.1177/2058738420929174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last years, the attention to the role of gender in physiopathology and pharmacology of diseases in several medical disciplines is rising; however, the data on the relationship between gender and audio-vestibular disorders are still inconclusive and sometimes confusing. With this letter to the editor, we would like to review the role of gender in audio-vestibular disorders. Literature data show that anatomic variances of the inner ear do exist in men and women and that the different physiology and/or hormonal influence between genders could produce different clinical outcome of routine audiological and vestibular tests. Beyond the epidemiological gender-related differences, the clinical data suggest that the gender has a potential role as an etiopathogenetic factor in audio-vestibular disorders and it is probably responsible for the different clinical features observed between male and female subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Corazzi
- ENT & Audiology Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciorba
- ENT & Audiology Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Piotr Henryk Skarżyński
- Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Heart Failure and Cardiac Rehabilitation, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Institute of Sensory Organs, Kajetany, Poland
| | - Magdalena B Skarżyńska
- Institute of Physiology and Pathology of Hearing, Warsaw, Poland.,Institute of Sensory Organs, Kajetany, Poland
| | - Chiara Bianchini
- ENT & Audiology Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesco Stomeo
- ENT & Audiology Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- University Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefano Pelucchi
- ENT & Audiology Department, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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12
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Maritati M, Alessandro T, Zanotta N, Comar M, Bellini T, Sighinolfi L, Contini C. A comparison between different anti-retroviral therapy regimes on soluble inflammation markers: a pilot study. AIDS Res Ther 2020; 17:61. [PMID: 33054784 PMCID: PMC7558668 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-020-00316-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although HIV-related deaths have decreased dramatically following the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV infection itself causes increased morbidity and mortality for both non-AIDS-related events or chronic inflammation and immune activation. The use of certain antiretroviral drugs can contribute to this process. METHODS We investigated 26 potential biomarkers in serum samples from HIV-1 infected patients virologically suppressed under ART. The main objective of our study was to evaluate if virological suppression achieved with a triple drug regimen containing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate co-formulated with emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) as backbone, could correlate with a better immunological and inflammatory profile in relation to the third class of antiretroviral drug administered. The eligible patients were then divided into 3 groups in relation to the third drug associated with TDF/FTC: nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) (Group 1, n = 16), protease inhibitors (PI) (Group 2, n = 17) and integrase inhibitors (INI) (Group 3, n = 16). RESULTS Inflammatory cytokines and chemokines were more represented in Group 2 than in Group 3 (IL-1Ra, p = 0.013; IL-12p70 p = 0.039; TNF-α p = 0.041; IL-8, p = 0.027; MIP1 β, p = 0.033). Eotaxin showed lower levels in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (p = 0.010), while IP-10 was significantly lower in Group 1 compared to both Group 2 and Group 3 (p = 0.003 and p = 0.007, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our results seem to discourage the administration of PI as a third drug in a virologically effective antiretroviral regimen, as its use is linked to the detection of higher levels of pro-inflammatory mediators in comparison with INI and NNRTI.
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13
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Trentini A, Maritati M, Rosta V, Cervellati C, Manfrinato MC, Hanau S, Greco P, Bonaccorsi G, Bellini T, Contini C. Vaginal Lactoferrin Administration Decreases Oxidative Stress in the Amniotic Fluid of Pregnant Women: An Open-Label Randomized Pilot Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:555. [PMID: 33015104 PMCID: PMC7505926 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Oxidative stress (OxS) has been linked to several pregnancy-related complications. Previous studies demonstrated that lactoferrin (LF) has the ability to modulate inflammation, OxS and the immune function. Therefore, we aimed to observe whether vaginal LF administration was able to decrease OxS in the amniotic fluid (AF) of pregnant women undergoing mid-trimester genetic amniocentesis. Methods: In this open-label clinical study, 60 pregnant women were divided into three groups: CONTROLS (n = 20), not treated with LF; LACTO 4HRS (n = 20), treated with LF 4 h prior to amniocentesis; LACTO 12HRS (n = 20), treated with LF 12 h prior to amniocentesis. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total antioxidant status (TAS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) were measured in AF samples. In addition, the in vitro antioxidant activity of LF on a cell line was tested. Results: LF decreased the concentration of TBARS in the AF, with LACTO 4HRS demonstrating the lowest value compared with CONTROLS (P < 0.0001). LACTO 4HRS had higher TAS and lower OSI than CONTROLS (P < 0.0001 for both). In vitro, LF was effective against the oxidative challenge regardless of the time of pretreatment. Conclusion: In conclusion, LF decreased both in vivo and in vitro OxS. LF administration may represent an intriguing clinical solution as an adjuvant to treat complications of pregnancy related to inflammation and OxS. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02695563. Registered 01 March 2016-Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT02695563.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Rosta
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Manfrinato
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Hanau
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pantaleo Greco
- Section of Orthopedics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Anesthesia and Resuscitation, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Bonaccorsi
- Section of Orthopedics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Anesthesia and Resuscitation, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Contini
- Section of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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14
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Rosta V, Trentini A, Passaro A, Zuliani G, Sanz JM, Bosi C, Bonaccorsi G, Bellini T, Cervellati C. Sex Difference Impacts on the Relationship between Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) and Type 2 Diabetes. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9080683. [PMID: 32751395 PMCID: PMC7463677 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Type-2 diabetes (T2D) and its cardiovascular complications are related to sex. Increasing evidence suggests that paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity, an antioxidant enzyme bound to high-density lipoproteins (HDL), is implicated in the onset and clinical progression of T2D. Since we previously showed that PON1 is a sexual dimorphic protein, we now investigated whether sex might impact the relationship between PON1 and this chronic disease. To address this aim, we assessed PON1 activity in the sera of 778 patients, including controls (women, n = 383; men, n = 198) and diabetics (women, n = 79; men = 118). PON1 activity decreased in both women and men with T2D compared with controls (p < 0.05 and p > 0.001, respectively), but the change was 50% larger in the female cohort. In line with this result, the enzyme activity was associated with serum glucose level only in women (r = -0.160, p = 0.002). Notably, only within this gender category, lower PON1 activity was independently associated with increased odds of being diabetic (odds ratio (95% Confidence interval: 2.162 (1.075-5.678)). In conclusion, our study suggests that PON1-deficiency in T2D is a gender-specific phenomenon, with women being more affected than men. This could contribute to the partial loss of female cardiovascular advantage associated with T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Rosta
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (V.R.); (T.B.)
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (V.R.); (T.B.)
- Correspondence: (A.T.); (A.P.); Tel.: +39-532-455322 (A.T.); +39-532-237017 (A.P.)
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.Z.); (J.M.S.); (C.B.); (G.B.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence: (A.T.); (A.P.); Tel.: +39-532-455322 (A.T.); +39-532-237017 (A.P.)
| | - Giovanni Zuliani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.Z.); (J.M.S.); (C.B.); (G.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Juana Maria Sanz
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.Z.); (J.M.S.); (C.B.); (G.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Cristina Bosi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.Z.); (J.M.S.); (C.B.); (G.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Gloria Bonaccorsi
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.Z.); (J.M.S.); (C.B.); (G.B.); (C.C.)
- Menopause and Osteoporosis Centre, University of Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
- Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (V.R.); (T.B.)
- Center of Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (G.Z.); (J.M.S.); (C.B.); (G.B.); (C.C.)
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15
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Romani A, Trentini A, van der Flier WM, Bellini T, Zuliani G, Cervellati C, Teunissen CE. Arylesterase Activity of Paraoxonase-1 in Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Alzheimer's Disease and Vascular Dementia. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9050456. [PMID: 32466344 PMCID: PMC7278748 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9050456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [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: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been suggested that circulating Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) and apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1), which closely interacts with the antioxidant enzyme, could be implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) development. This study aimed to evaluate PON1 changes in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as evidence for its association with AD or VaD. METHODS Serum PON-arylesterase activity was measured in patients with AD, VaD, and CONTROLS distributed in two cohorts: Ferrara cohort (FC: n = 503, age = 74 years) and Amsterdam Dementia cohort (ADC: n = 71, age = 65 years). In the last cohort, CSF PON-arylesterase, CSF β-amyloid1-42, p-tau and t-tau, and imaging biomarkers were also measured. RESULTS AD and VaD patients of FC showed significantly lower levels of serum PON-arylesterase compared to CONTROLS, but this outcome was driven by older subjects (>71 years, p < 0.0001). In the younger ADC, a similar decreasing (but not significant) trend was observed in serum and CSF. Intriguingly, PON-arylesterase per APOA1 correlated with t-tau in AD group (r = -0.485, p = 0.002). CONCLUSION These results suggest that decreased peripheral PON-arylesterase might be a specific feature of older AD/VaD patients. Moreover, we showed that PON-arylesterase/APOA1 is inversely related to neurodegeneration in AD patients, suggesting a prognostic usefulness of this composite parameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Romani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.R.); (G.Z.); (C.C.)
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-053-2455-322
| | - Wiesje M. van der Flier
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Neurochemistry Lab and Biobank, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (W.M.v.d.F.); (C.E.T.)
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Zuliani
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.R.); (G.Z.); (C.C.)
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (A.R.); (G.Z.); (C.C.)
| | - Charlotte E. Teunissen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Neurochemistry Lab and Biobank, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (W.M.v.d.F.); (C.E.T.)
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Castellazzi M, Morotti A, Tamborino C, Alessi F, Pilotto S, Baldi E, Caniatti LM, Trentini A, Casetta I, Granieri E, Pugliatti M, Fainardi E, Bellini T. Increased age and male sex are independently associated with higher frequency of blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier dysfunction using the albumin quotient. Fluids Barriers CNS 2020; 17:14. [PMID: 32024544 PMCID: PMC7003357 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-020-0173-2] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/serum quotient of albumin (QAlb) is the most used biomarker for the evaluation of blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (B-CSF-B) permeability. For years QAlb was considered only as an age-related parameter but recently it has also been associated to sex. The aim of the present study was to explore the impact of sex in the determination of B-CSF-B dysfunction. Methods The analysis was retrospectively conducted on subjects consecutively admitted to the neurological ward. CSF and serum albumin levels were measured by immunonephelometry and pathological QAlb thresholds were considered: 6.5 under 40 years, 8.0 in the age 40–60 and 9.0 over 60 years. Results 1209 subjects were included in the study. 718 females and 491 males (age: 15–88 years): 24.6% of patients had a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, 23.2% suffered from other inflammatory neurological diseases, 24.6% were affected by non-inflammatory neurological diseases, and for 27.6% of patients the final neurological diagnosis could not be traced. Dysfunctional B-CSF-B was detected more frequently (44 vs. 20.1%, p < 0.0001) and median QAlb value were higher (7.18 vs. 4.87, p < 0.0001) in males than in females in the overall study population and in all disease subgroups. QAlb and age were positively correlated both in female (p < 0.0001) and male (p < 0.0001) patients, however the slopes of the two regression lines were not significantly different (p = 0.7149), while the difference between the elevations was extremely significant (p < 0.0001) with a gap of 2.2 units between the two sexes. Finally, in a multivariable linear regression analysis increased age and male sex were independently associated with higher QAlb in the overall study population (both p < 0.001) and after stratification by age and disease group. Conclusions Accordingly, identification and validation of sex-targeted QAlb thresholds should be considered as a novel tool in an effort to achieve more precision in the medical approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, Settore 1C3, 44124, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Silvy Pilotto
- School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Baldi
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luisa M Caniatti
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, Settore 1C3, 44124, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Casetta
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, Settore 1C3, 44124, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, Settore 1C3, 44124, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, Settore 1C3, 44124, Ferrara, Italy. .,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Enrico Fainardi
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, Settore 1C3, 44124, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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17
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De Angelis LC, Bellini T, Witte MH, Kylat RI, Bernas M, Boccardo F, Paladini D, Magnano GM, Ramenghi LA, Bellini C. CONGENITAL CHYLOTHORAX: CURRENT EVIDENCE-BASED PRENATAL AND POST-NATAL DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT. Lymphology 2020. [DOI: 10.2458/lymph.4632] [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: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Congenital chylothorax is an uncommon condition but represents the main cause of congenital pleural effusion during the neonatal period. It usually appears before birth, both as an isolated disorder or in association with hydrops fetalis, negatively affecting the subsequent neonatal outcome. Prenatal treatment is usually considered to ensure a satisfactory lung development in case of moderate to severe pleural effusion or in the presence of hydrops, although consensus on treatment timing and modalities has not been reached to date. Both medical and surgical therapeutic strategies are available to treat this condition and novel treatment options have been recently attempted with acceptable results in both prenatal and post-natal setting. The heterogeneous clinical presentation of congenital chylothorax together with its rarity, its numerous etiologies and the absence of a highly effective treatment renders the diagnostic and therapeutic approach difficult to standardize. In addition, adequate visualization of the lymphatic system is complex, especially in small neonates, although new promising techniques have been developed lately and may contribute to improved management of this serious but infrequent condition. This review focuses on the current evidence base for the diagnosis and treatment options for congenital chylothorax, suggesting a rational diagnostic and therapeutic approach both in the prenatal and in the neonatal period.
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18
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Bianchini C, Corazzi V, Malagò M, Bellini T, Stomeo F, Ciorba A, Pelucchi S. Pain in head and neck cancer patients: the role of gender. J BUON 2019; 24:2220-2226. [PMID: 31983086] [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
PURPOSE To assess the quality of life (QoL) following palliative radiotherapy (RT) in patients with painful bone metastases. METHODS A literature search limited to English-written publications was carried out, through the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (November 2018), OvidSP and PubMedCentral (1940-November 2018) databases. Subject headings and keywords included "quality of life"(QoL), "bone metastases", "palliative therapy", "pain" and "radiotherapy". Original articles, literature reviews, trials and meta-analyses revealing alterations in QoL post-RT using ratified measuring tools were examined. Studies referring to other types of metastases (e.g. brain metastases), or to other types of palliative therapy (e.g. the use of bisphosphonates alone), or focusing only on pain, or even reporting QoL only before or only after the use of RT were excluded. RESULTS Twenty four articles were selected from a total of 1360 articles. Seven trials proceeded to patients' randomization. The most commonly used tool to evaluate QoL was EORTC, followed by Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) questionnaires. All studies showed improvement in symptoms and functional interference scores after RT. The QoL between responders (Rs) and non-responders (NRs) has been juxtaposed in 10 studies. Rs had a significant benefit in QoL in comparison with the NRs. DISCUSSION Palliative radiotherapy in painful bone metastases improves Rs' QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Bianchini
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, Biopolis, Larisa, Greece
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Trentini A, Bellini T, Bonaccorsi G, Cavicchio C, Hanau S, Passaro A, Cervellati C. Sex difference: an important issue to consider in epidemiological and clinical studies dealing with serum paraoxonase-1. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2019. [PMID: 31138960 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.18.73] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of sex on serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activities and on its relationship with cardiovascular disease risk factors such as overall and central obesity. Arylesterase and lactonase activities of PON1 were assessed in 374 women and 92 men. Both arylesterase and lactonase activities were significantly higher in women compared to men (p<0.001), irrespectively of confounders such as high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, age, smoking and body mass index or waist circumference. Sex also strongly influenced the interplay between PON1 and both fat measures, with only the arylesterase showing a significant and independent inverse correlation with the former parameter (r = -0.248, p<0.001) and the risk of overall obesity (odds ratio: 0.559, 95% confidence interval: 0.340-0.919) in women, but not in men; conversely, neither of the two activities remained associated with waist circumference in men or women after full adjustment. Noteworthy, the association between arylesterase and BMI in the female subsample was significant among women younger than forty-five years (r = -0.453, p<0.001, R 2 = 0.207). In conclusion, our study suggests that sex might chiefly influence PON1 activity and its contribution to cardiovascular disease risk. Further studies are needed to confirm and clarify our preliminary findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.,University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Bonaccorsi
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Menopause and Osteoporosis Centre, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlotta Cavicchio
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Hanau
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and CardioRespiratory Section, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
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Paladini D, Donarini G, Conti A, Costanza De Angelis L, Witte MH, Genesio R, Bernas M, Bellini T, Boccardo F, Ramenghi LA, Bellini C. EARLY FETAL HYDROPIC CHANGES ARE ASSOCIATED WITH MODERATE DILATATION OF THE BRAIN VENTRICULAR SYSTEM: A CLUE TO A POSSIBLE LINK BETWEEN CERVICAL LYMPHATIC ENGORGEMENT AND VENTRICULAR DILATATION? Lymphology 2019. [DOI: 10.2458/lymph.4620] [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: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess whether early cervical lymphatic obstruction is associated with a sonographically detectable dilatation of the ventricular system in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. In particular, the objective is to assess whether fetuses with non-immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF), cystic hygroma, or enlarged nuchal translucency (NT) have a greater atrial width/biparietal diameter (AW/BPD) ratio than normal at time of the combined first trimester screening scan. This retrospective study included 96 first trimester fetuses (33 normal and 63 with various degree of cervical lymphatic engorgement). Inclusion criteria were CRL in the 45-84 mm range and availability of one or more three-dimensional volume datasets of the fetal head, acquired from the BPD plane. Each three-dimensional volume dataset was opened and multiplanar correlation employed to align the three orthogonal planes. The ratio between the atrial width and the BPD (AW/BPD ratio) was used to evaluate the possible presence of increased amount of cerebrospinal fluid. Abnormal cases were placed into 4 categories: 1)enlarged non-septated NT 2.5-3.9 mm, no hydrops; 2) grossly enlarged non-septated NT/ edema >3.9 mm; 3) cystic hygroma and/or NIHF; 4) major anomalies with NT <2.5 mm. Presence of dilatation of the latero-cervical jugular lymphatic sacs, karyotype and presence of congenital anomalies were also recorded. The One-way ANOVA test was used to compare means. Intra- and inter-observer variability were also assessed. The AW/BPD ratio was found to be significantly higher in fetuses with grossly enlarged NT/nuchal edema and NIHF/septated cystic hygroma than in normal (p <0.05 and p <0.01, respectively). Also, the AW/BPD ratio was significantly higher in NIHF/septated cystic hygroma than in enlarged NT 2.5-3.9 mm (p <0.05). In case of enlarged NT (2.5-3.9 mm), the AW/BPD ratio is significantly higher in presence of JLS (p <0.01). At the end of the first trimester, presence of cervical lymphatic engorgement, in terms of grossly enlarged NT, nuchaledema, septated cystic hygroma, and NIHF, is statistically associated with a moderate dilatation of the ventricular system. Of note, among fetuses with moderately enlarged NT, those with evidence of dilatation of the JLS show a statistically significant increase in the AW/BPD ratio.
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Leurs CE, Twaalfhoven H, Lissenberg-Witte BI, van Pesch V, Dujmovic I, Drulovic J, Castellazzi M, Bellini T, Pugliatti M, Kuhle J, Villar LM, Alvarez-Cermeño JC, Alvarez-Lafuente R, Hegen H, Deisenhammer F, Walchhofer LM, Thouvenot E, Comabella M, Montalban X, Vécsei L, Rajda C, Galimberti D, Scarpini E, Altintas A, Rejdak K, Frederiksen JL, Pihl-Jensen G, Jensen P, Khalil M, Voortman MM, Fazekas F, Saiz A, La Puma D, Vercammen M, Vanopdenbosch L, Uitdehaag B, Killestein J, Bridel C, Teunissen C. Kappa free light chains is a valid tool in the diagnostics of MS: A large multicenter study. Mult Scler 2019; 26:912-923. [PMID: 31066634 PMCID: PMC7350201 DOI: 10.1177/1352458519845844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To validate kappa free light chain (KFLC) and lambda free light chain (LFLC) indices as a diagnostic biomarker in multiple sclerosis (MS). METHODS We performed a multicenter study including 745 patients from 18 centers (219 controls and 526 clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)/MS patients) with a known oligoclonal IgG band (OCB) status. KFLC and LFLC were measured in paired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples. Gaussian mixture modeling was used to define a cut-off for KFLC and LFLC indexes. RESULTS The cut-off for the KFLC index was 6.6 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.2-138.1). The cut-off for the LFLC index was 6.9 (95% CI = 4.5-22.2). For CIS/MS patients, sensitivity of the KFLC index (0.88; 95% CI = 0.85-0.90) was higher than OCB (0.82; 95%CI = 0.79-0.85; p < 0.001), but specificity (0.83; 95% CI = 0.78-0.88) was lower (OCB = 0.92; 95% CI = 0.89-0.96; p < 0.001). Both sensitivity and specificity for the LFLC index were lower than OCB. CONCLUSION Compared with OCB, the KFLC index is more sensitive but less specific for diagnosing CIS/MS. Lacking an elevated KFLC index is more powerful for excluding MS compared with OCB but the latter is more important for ruling in a diagnosis of CIS/MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Leurs
- Department of Neurology, MS Center Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1118, Amsterdam 1081 HZ, The Netherlands
| | - Ham Twaalfhoven
- Neurochemistry Laboratory and Biobank, Department of Clinical Chemistry, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B I Lissenberg-Witte
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - V van Pesch
- Department of Neurology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Sint-Lambrechts-Woluwe, Belgium
| | - I Dujmovic
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Centre of Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - J Drulovic
- Clinic of Neurology, Clinical Centre of Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - T Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - M Pugliatti
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - J Kuhle
- Neurologic Clinic and Policlinic, Departments of Medicine, Clinical Research and Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - L M Villar
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain/ Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - J C Alvarez-Cermeño
- Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain/Department of Neurology, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, IRYICIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - R Alvarez-Lafuente
- Red Española de Esclerosis Múltiple (REEM), Madrid, Spain/Grupo de Investigación de Esclerosis Múltiple, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - H Hegen
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - F Deisenhammer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - L M Walchhofer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - E Thouvenot
- Department of Neurology, CHU Nîmes, Hôpital Caremeau, Nîmes, France/Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, UMR5203, Université Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - M Comabella
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - X Montalban
- Servei de Neurologia-Neuroimmunologia, Centre d'Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat), Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Vécsei
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary/MTA-SZTE Neuroscience Research Group, Szeged, Hungary
| | - C Rajda
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - D Galimberti
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre, University of Milan, Dino Ferrari Centre, Fondazione Ca' Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - E Scarpini
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre, University of Milan, Dino Ferrari Centre, Fondazione Ca' Granda, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - A Altintas
- Koc University, School of Medicine, Neurology Department, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - K Rejdak
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - J L Frederiksen
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup and University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - G Pihl-Jensen
- Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup and University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peh Jensen
- Danish Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M Khalil
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - M M Voortman
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - F Fazekas
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - A Saiz
- Center of Neuroimmunology, Service of Neurology, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) and Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - D La Puma
- Center of Neuroimmunology, Service of Neurology, Hospital Clinic, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) and Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Vercammen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende, Brugge, Belgium
| | - L Vanopdenbosch
- Department of Neurology, AZ Sint-Jan Brugge-Oostende, Brugge, Belgium
| | - Bmj Uitdehaag
- Department of Neurology, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Killestein
- Department of Neurology, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Bridel
- Neurochemistry Laboratory and Biobank, Department of Clinical Chemistry, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Teunissen
- Neurochemistry Laboratory and Biobank, Department of Clinical Chemistry, MS Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Trentini A, Spadaro S, Rosta V, Manfrinato MC, Cervellati C, Dalla Corte F, Hanau S, Volta CA, Bellini T. Fast skeletal troponin I, but not the slow isoform, is increased in patients under statin therapy: a pilot study. Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2019; 29:010703. [PMID: 30591813 PMCID: PMC6294157 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2019.010703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Statin therapy is often associated with muscle complaints and increased serum creatine kinase (CK). However, although essential in determining muscle damage, this marker is not specific for skeletal muscle. Recent studies on animal models have shown that slow and fast isoforms of skeletal troponin I (ssTnI and fsTnI, respectively) can be useful markers of skeletal muscle injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of ssTnI and fsTnI as markers to monitor the statin-induced skeletal muscle damage. Materials and methods A total of 51 patients (14 using and 37 not using statins) admitted to the intensive care unit of the University of Ferrara Academic Hospital were included in this observational study. Serum activities of CK, aldolase, alanine aminotransferase and myoglobin were determined by spectrophotometric assays or routine laboratory analysis. Isoforms ssTnI and fsTnI were determined by commercially available ELISAs. The creatine kinase MB isoform (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) were evaluated as biomarkers of cardiac muscle damage by automatic analysers. Results Among the non-specific markers, only CK was significantly higher in statin users (P = 0.027). Isoform fsTnI, but not ssTnI, was specifically increased in those patients using statins (P = 0.009) evidencing the major susceptibility of fast-twitch fibres towards statins. Sub-clinical increase in fsTnI, but not CK, was more frequent in statin users (P = 0.007). Cardiac markers were not significantly altered by statins confirming the selectivity of the effect on skeletal muscle. Conclusions Serum fsTnI could be a good marker for monitoring statin-associated muscular damage outperforming traditional markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Savino Spadaro
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Rosta
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria C Manfrinato
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Francesca Dalla Corte
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Hanau
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo A Volta
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Trentini A, Murganti F, Rosta V, Cervellati C, Manfrinato MC, Spadaro S, Dallocchio F, Volta CA, Bellini T. Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 Binds to Neutrophils Impairing Their Chemotaxis through a Mac-1 Dependent Interaction. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20040817. [PMID: 30769810 PMCID: PMC6413098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20040817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies showed that hydroxyethyl starch (HES), a synthetic colloid used in volume replacement therapies, interferes with leukocyte-endothelium interactions. Although still unclear, the mechanism seems to involve the inhibition of neutrophils' integrin. With the aim to provide direct evidence of the binding of HES to neutrophils and to investigate the influence of HES on neutrophil chemotaxis, we isolated and treated the cells with different concentrations of fluorescein-conjugated HES (HES-FITC), with or without different stimuli (N-Formylmethionine-leucyl-phenylalanine, fMLP, or IL-8). HES internalization was evaluated by trypan blue quenching and ammonium chloride treatment. Chemotaxis was evaluated by under-agarose assay after pretreatment of the cells with HES or a balanced saline solution. The integrin interacting with HES was identified by using specific blocking antibodies. Our results showed that HES-FITC binds to the plasma membrane of neutrophils without being internalized. Additionally, the cell-associated fluorescence increased after stimulation of neutrophils with fMLP (p < 0.01) but not IL-8. HES treatment impaired the chemotaxis only towards fMLP, event mainly ascribed to the inhibition of CD-11b (Mac-1 integrin) activity. Therefore, the observed effect mediated by HES should be taken into account during volume replacement therapies. Thus, HES treatment could be advantageous in clinical conditions where a low activation/recruitment of neutrophils may be beneficial, but may be harmful when unimpaired immune functions are mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Francesca Murganti
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
- Technische Universität Dresden, Research Center for Regenerative Therapies, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Valentina Rosta
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Manfrinato
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Savino Spadaro
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Franco Dallocchio
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Carlo Alberto Volta
- Section of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
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Trentini A, Bellini T, Bonaccorsi G, Cavicchio C, Hanau S, Passaro A, Cervellati C. Sex difference: an important issue to consider in epidemiological and clinical studies dealing with serum paraoxonase-1. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2019; 64:250-256. [PMID: 31138960 PMCID: PMC6529704 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.18-73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of sex on serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activities and on its relationship with cardiovascular disease risk factors such as overall and central obesity. Arylesterase and lactonase activities of PON1 were assessed in 374 women and 92 men. Both arylesterase and lactonase activities were significantly higher in women compared to men (p<0.001), irrespectively of confounders such as high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, age, smoking and body mass index or waist circumference. Sex also strongly influenced the interplay between PON1 and both fat measures, with only the arylesterase showing a significant and independent inverse correlation with the former parameter (r = −0.248, p<0.001) and the risk of overall obesity (odds ratio: 0.559, 95% confidence interval: 0.340–0.919) in women, but not in men; conversely, neither of the two activities remained associated with waist circumference in men or women after full adjustment. Noteworthy, the association between arylesterase and BMI in the female subsample was significant among women younger than forty-five years (r = −0.453, p<0.001, R2 = 0.207). In conclusion, our study suggests that sex might chiefly influence PON1 activity and its contribution to cardiovascular disease risk. Further studies are needed to confirm and clarify our preliminary findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.,University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Bonaccorsi
- University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Menopause and Osteoporosis Centre, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlotta Cavicchio
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Hanau
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and CardioRespiratory Section, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
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Paladini D, Donarini G, Conti A, Constanza De Angelis L, Witte MH, Genesio R, Bernas M, Bellini T, Boccardo F, Ramenghi LA, Bellini C. Early fetal hydropic changes are associated with moderate dilatation of the brain ventricular system: A clue to a possible link between cervical lymphatic engorgement and ventricular dilatation? Lymphology 2019; 52:11-17. [PMID: 31119910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess whether early cervical lymphatic obstruction is associated with a sonographically detectable dilatation of the ventricular system in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. In particular, the objective is to assess whether fetuses with non-immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF), cystic hygroma, or enlarged nuchal translucency (NT) have a greater atrial width/biparietal diameter (AW/BPD) ratio than normal at time of the combined first trimester screening scan. This retrospective study included 96 first trimester fetuses (33 normal and 63 with various degree of cervical lymphatic engorgement). Inclusion criteria were CRL in the 45-84 mm range and availability of one or more three-dimensional volume datasets of the fetal head, acquired from the BPD plane. Each three-dimensional volume dataset was opened and multiplanar correlation employed to align the three orthogonal planes. The ratio between the atrial width and the BPD (AW/BPD ratio) was used to evaluate the possible presence of increased amount of cerebrospinal fluid. Abnormal cases were placed into 4 categories: 1) enlarged non-septated NT 2.5-3.9 mm, no hydrops; 2) grossly enlarged non-septated NT / edema >3.9 mm; 3) cystic hygroma and/ or NIHF; 4) major anomalies with NT <2.5 mm. Presence of dilatation of the laterocervical jugular lymphatic sacs, karyotype and presence of congenital anomalies were also recorded. The One-way ANOVA test was used to compare means. Intra- and inter-observer variability were also assessed. The AW/BPD ratio was found to be significantly higher in fetuses with grossly enlarged NT/nuchal edema and NIHF/septated cystic hygroma than in normal (p <0.05 and p <0.01, respectively). Also, the AW/BPD ratio was significantly higher in NIHF/septated cystic hygroma than in enlarged NT 2.5-3.9 mm (p <0.05). In case of enlarged NT (2.5-3.9 mm), the AW/BPD ratio is significantly higher in presence of JLS (p <0.01). At the end of the first trimester, presence of cervical lymphatic engorgement, in terms of grossly enlarged NT, nuchal edema, septated cystic hygroma, and NIHF, is statistically associated with a moderate dilatation of the ventricular system. Of note, among fetuses with moderately enlarged NT, those with evidence of dilatation of the JLS show a statistically significant increase in the AW/BPD ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Paladini
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - G Donarini
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - A Conti
- Cytogenetics, University Federico II of Naples, Italy
| | - L Constanza De Angelis
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - M H Witte
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ
| | - R Genesio
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - M Bernas
- Department of Medical Education, TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - T Bellini
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - F Boccardo
- Dept. of Surgery, University of Genova, Italy
| | - L A Ramenghi
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - C Bellini
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
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De Angelis LC, Bellini T, Witte MH, Kylat RI, Bernas M, Boccardo F, Paladini D, Magnano GM, Ramenghi LA, Bellini C. Congenital chylothorax: Current evidence-based prenatal and post-natal diagnosis and management. Lymphology 2019; 52:108-125. [PMID: 31874123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Congenital chylothorax is an uncommon condition but represents the main cause of congenital pleural effusion during the neonatal period. It usually appears before birth, both as an isolated disorder or in association with hydrops fetalis, negatively affecting the subsequent neonatal outcome. Prenatal treatment is usually considered to ensure a satisfactory lung development in case of moderate to severe pleural effusion or in the presence of hydrops, although consensus on treatment timing and modalities has not been reached to date. Both medical and surgical therapeutic strategies are available to treat this condition and novel treatment options have been recently attempted with acceptable results in both prenatal and post-natal setting. The heterogeneous clinical presentation of congenital chylothorax together with its rarity, its numerous etiologies and the absence of a highly effective treatment renders the diagnostic and therapeutic approach difficult to standardize. In addition, adequate visualization of the lymphatic system is complex, especially in small neonates, although new promising techniques have been developed lately and may contribute to improved management of this serious but infrequent condition. This review focuses on the current evidence base for the diagnosis and treatment options for congenital chylothorax, suggesting a rational diagnostic and therapeutic approach both in the prenatal and in the neonatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C De Angelis
- Department Mother & Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Istituto Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - T Bellini
- Department Mother & Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Istituto Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - M H Witte
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - R I Kylat
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - M Bernas
- Department of Medical Education, TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - F Boccardo
- Department of Surgery, University of Genova, Italy
| | - D Paladini
- Radiology Department, IRCCS, Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - G M Magnano
- Department of Fetal Medicine & Surgery Unit, IRCCS Istituto Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - L A Ramenghi
- Department Mother & Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Istituto Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - C Bellini
- Department Mother & Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Istituto Gaslini, Genova, Italy
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Castellazzi M, Ligi D, Contaldi E, Quartana D, Fonderico M, Borgatti L, Bellini T, Trentini A, Granieri E, Fainardi E, Mannello F, Pugliatti M. Multiplex Matrix Metalloproteinases Analysis in the Cerebrospinal Fluid Reveals Potential Specific Patterns in Multiple Sclerosis Patients. Front Neurol 2018; 9:1080. [PMID: 30619040 PMCID: PMC6305439 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.01080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are pleiotropic enzymes involved in extracellular protein degradation and turnover. MMPs are implicated in the pathogenesis of many neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Objective: To search the level of MMPs in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of MS patients and detect possible disease-specific patterns. Methods: CSF samples from 32 MS patients and, from 15 control subjects with other inflammatory neurological diseases (OIND) were analyzed. The Bio-Plex Pro Human MMP 9-Plex Panel (Bio-Rad) was used for the quantification of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-10, MMP-12, and MMP-13. Results: CSF MMP-1 and MMP-12 levels were significantly reduced in MS as compared with OIND. In MS patients' CSF: (i) MMP-1 levels were significantly higher in women vs. men; (ii) MMP-10 concentrations were higher in patients with CSF-restricted IgG oligoclonal bands, and (iii) MMP-7 levels were increased in patients with longer disease duration. In the OIND group MMP-7 and MMP-12 levels significantly and directly correlated with age. Conclusions: Our study contributes to investigating the role of MMPs in MS, with regard to CSF immunological features and disease duration. Sex-specific differences were also detected in MMPs CSF levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daniela Ligi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University "Carlo Bo" of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Elena Contaldi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Quartana
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Luca Borgatti
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,University Center for Studies on Gender Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Fainardi
- Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Mannello
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University "Carlo Bo" of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Maura Pugliatti
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Interdepartmental Research Center for the Study of Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory and Degenerative Diseases of the Nervous System, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Maritati M, Trentini A, Michel G, Bellini T, Almugadam S, Hanau S, Govoni M, Marty P, Contini C. Subclinical Leishmania infection in patients with rheumatic diseases under biological drugs. Infection 2018; 46:801-809. [PMID: 30097989 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-018-1189-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Climate changes and immunosuppression are influencing the spread of leishmaniasis and re-emergence in Northern Italy, respectively. We evaluated the prevalence of subclinical leishmaniasis in patients from a Northern Italian region with chronic inflammatory rheumatism (CIRD) receiving biological drugs (BD) and correlated it to the area of residence. METHODS DNA from PBMC of patients affected by CIRD treated with either BD for at least 5 years (Group A) or other immunosuppressive drugs (Group B) was investigated by a qPCR for Leishmania infantum kDNA and compared to healthy subjects (Group C). Variables such as sex and age, rural areas, dog ownership, type of BD administered and association between BD and steroids, were evaluated by statistical analysis. RESULTS A higher proportion of L. infantum DNA positivity was found in Group A than in Group C (p < 0.05), while no parasite DNA was detected in Group B. In Group A, 18/50 patients (36%) had higher rates of parasite DNA (from 1 to 136 to 1.000.000 copies/ml) than Group C (from 1 to 10 copies/ml). 14/18 (77.7%) of positive patients from Group A lived in rural areas, but no statistical differences occurred in relation to dog ownership or BD type (p < 0.0003). CONCLUSIONS We can speculate that exposure to rural areas appears to be a factor closely linked with the risk of developing Leishmania subclinical infection. A screening with molecular methods in patients with CIRD treated with BD living in these areas and monitoring Leishmania DNA during such therapies, would be mandatory to prevent delay in diagnosis should VL symptoms appear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Maritati
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44124, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gregory Michel
- INSERM, U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, C3M, Toxines Microbiennes dans la Relation Hôte-Pathogènes, 06204, Nice, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Shawgi Almugadam
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Hanau
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marcello Govoni
- Section of Hematology and Rheumatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pierre Marty
- INSERM, U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, C3M, Toxines Microbiennes dans la Relation Hôte-Pathogènes, 06204, Nice, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France.,Parasitologie-Mycologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire l'Archet, Université Côte d'Azur, CS 23079, 06202, Nice, France
| | - Carlo Contini
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44124, Ferrara, Italy.
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De Angelis LC, Witte MH, Bellini T, Bernas M, Boccardo F, Ramenghi LA, Bellini C. Brain lymphatic drainage system in fetus and newborn: Birth of a new era of exploration. Lymphology 2018; 51:140-147. [PMID: 31119904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A peculiar brain lymphatic drainage system has been recently fully recognized in animals and humans. It comprises different draining pathways, including the lymphatic system, the perivascular drainage pathway, and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage routes. Although scant data are available about its function during the neonatal period, it may play a role in neonatal brain diseases. In this review, we focus on the actual knowledge of brain lymphatic drainage system, and we hypothesize potential implications of its impairment and dysfunction in major neonatal neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C De Angelis
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - M H Witte
- Department of Surgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - T Bellini
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - M Bernas
- Department of Medical Education, TCU and UNTHSC School of Medicine, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
| | - F Boccardo
- Department of Surgery, University of Genova, Italy
| | - L A Ramenghi
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
| | - C Bellini
- Department of Mother and Child, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Gaslini Institute, Genova, Italy
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Spadaro S, Kozhevnikova I, Casolari P, Ruggeri P, Bellini T, Ragazzi R, Barbieri F, Marangoni E, Caramori G, Volta CA. Lower airways inflammation in patients with ARDS measured using endotracheal aspirates: a pilot study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2017; 4:e000222. [PMID: 29071081 PMCID: PMC5647481 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2017-000222] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Our knowledge of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) pathogenesis is incomplete. The goal of this pilot study is to investigate the feasibility of measuring lower airways inflammation in patients with ARDS using repeated endotracheal aspirates (ETAs). Methods ETAs were obtained within 24 hours by intensive care unit admission from 25 mechanically ventilated patients with ARDS and 10 of them underwent a second ETA within 96 hours after the first sampling. In each sample, cell viability was assessed using trypan blue exclusion method and the total and differential cell counts were measured using Neubauer-improved cell counting chamber and cytospins stained with Diff-Quik. Results The median cell viability was 89 (IQR 80–93)%, with a median total cell count of 305 (IQR 130–1270)×103/mL and a median macrophage, neutrophil, lymphocyte and eosinophil count, respectively, of 19.8 (IQR 5.4–71.6)×103/mL; 279 (IQR 109–1213)×103/mL; 0 (IQR 0–0.188)×103/mL; 0 (IQR 0–1.050)×103/mL. Eosinophil count in the ETA correlated with the number of blood eosinophils (r=0.4840, p=0.0142). Cell viability and total and differential cell counts were neither significantly different in the second ETA compared with the first ETA nor were unaffected by the presence or absence of bacteria in the blood and/or ETA, or by the ARDS aetiology, apart from the macrophage count which was significantly increased in patients with ARDS associated with acute pancreatitis compared with those associated with pneumonia (p=0.0143). Conclusions ETA can be used to investigate the cellularity of the lower airways in patients with ARDS and it is an easy-to-perform and non-invasive procedure. Eosinophil counts in ETA and blood are significantly correlated. The number of macrophages in ETA may be affected by the aetiology of the ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savino Spadaro
- Unità Operativa di Anestesia e Rianimazione Universitaria dell'Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Iryna Kozhevnikova
- Unità Operativa di Anestesia e Rianimazione Universitaria dell'Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Casolari
- Centro Interdipartimentale per lo Studio delle Malattie Infiammatorie delle Vie Aeree e Patologie Fumo-Correlate (CEMICEF), Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, Sezione di Medicina Interna e Cardiorespiratoria, Università di Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Ruggeri
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Pneumologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Odontoiatriche e delle Immagini Morfologiche e Funzionali (BIOMORF), Messina, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgical Sciences, Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics Section, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Riccardo Ragazzi
- Unità Operativa di Anestesia e Rianimazione Universitaria dell'Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Barbieri
- Unità Operativa di Anestesia e Rianimazione Universitaria dell'Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Marangoni
- Unità Operativa di Anestesia e Rianimazione Universitaria dell'Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gaetano Caramori
- Unità Operativa Complessa di Pneumologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Odontoiatriche e delle Immagini Morfologiche e Funzionali (BIOMORF), Messina, Italy
| | - Carlo Alberto Volta
- Unità Operativa di Anestesia e Rianimazione Universitaria dell'Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Sant'Anna di Ferrara, Dipartimento di Morfologia, Chirurgia e Medicina Sperimentale, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Trentini A, Castellazzi M, Romani A, Squerzanti M, Baldi E, Caniatti ML, Pugliatti M, Granieri E, Fainardi E, Bellini T, Cervellati C. Evaluation of total, ceruloplasmin-associated and type II ferroxidase activities in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of multiple sclerosis patients. J Neurol Sci 2017; 377:133-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Fernandez-Castanon J, Bomboi F, Rovigatti L, Zanatta M, Paciaroni A, Comez L, Porcar L, Jafta CJ, Fadda GC, Bellini T, Sciortino F. Small-angle neutron scattering and molecular dynamics structural study of gelling DNA nanostars. J Chem Phys 2017; 145:084910. [PMID: 27586949 DOI: 10.1063/1.4961398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA oligomers with properly designed sequences self-assemble into well defined constructs. Here, we exploit this methodology to produce bulk quantities of tetravalent DNA nanostars (each one composed of 196 nucleotides) and to explore the structural signatures of their aggregation process. We report small-angle neutron scattering experiments focused on the evaluation of both the form factor and the temperature evolution of the scattered intensity at a nanostar concentration where the system forms a tetravalent equilibrium gel. We also perform molecular dynamics simulations of one isolated tetramer to evaluate the form factor numerically, without resorting to any approximate shape. The numerical form factor is found to be in very good agreement with the experimental one. Simulations predict an essentially temperature-independent form factor, offering the possibility to extract the effective structure factor and its evolution during the equilibrium gelation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - F Bomboi
- Sapienza-Università di Roma, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - L Rovigatti
- Rudolf Peierls C.T.P., University of Oxford, 1 Keble Road, Oxford OX1 3NP, United Kingdom
| | - M Zanatta
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Perugia, Via Pascoli, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - A Paciaroni
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Perugia, Via Pascoli, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - L Comez
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università di Perugia, Via Pascoli, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - L Porcar
- Institut Laue-Langevin, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, CS 20156, 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - C J Jafta
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Hahn-Meitner-Platz 1, 14109 Berlin, Germany
| | - G C Fadda
- Laboratoire Léon Brillouin, LLB, CEA Saclay, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex, France
| | - T Bellini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, Università di Milano, I-20133 Milano, Italy
| | - F Sciortino
- Sapienza-Università di Roma, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
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Bellini C, Cabano R, Bellini T, Boccardo F, Morcaldi G, Ramenghi LA. Congenital Chylothorax of the Newborn: Diagnosis and Treatment in Three Pictures. Lymphology 2016; 49:150-156. [PMID: 29906078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There is general agreement regarding the evident need for an international, multicenter trial including long-term follow-up to establish the correct criteria for diagnosing and managing congenital chylothorax. In an attempt to identify these criteria, which could then be used to draft a prospective multicenter trial, we propose three flow-charts showing three algorithms that could be used to: 1) obtain a definitive diagnosis of pleural chylous effusion; 2) specifically focus on chyle leakage evolution and etiology of chylothorax; and 3) focus on the management of congenital chylothorax. The aim of the algorithms we propose is to build the basis on which a strongly needed multicenter trial might be structured.
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Romani A, Trentini A, Passaro A, Bosi C, Bellini T, Ferrari C, Cervellati C, Zuliani G. Mutual relationship between serum ferroxidase activity and hemoglobin levels in elderly individuals. Ann Hematol 2016; 95:1333-9. [PMID: 27235174 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-016-2709-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The identification of hemoglobin (Hb) biological determinants is of primary clinical interest, in particular in the elderly because of the well-documented relationship between anemia and cognitive and functional decline. Ceruloplasmin (Cp) and non-Cp ferroxidase activity might influence Hb production because of its role in modulating iron mobilization. This potential connection has never been explored so far. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the possible association between serum ferroxidase activity (sFeOx) and Hb in a sample of 136 apparently healthy older individuals. The results revealed that nonlinear (quadratic) regression explained the relationship between the two variables of interest better than did the linear one (R (2) = 0.09 vs. R (2) = 0.03). The same analysis highlighted a linear behavior for the relationship between Hb and sFeOx, for two separate subsamples stratified on the basis of the Hb value (141 g/L) corresponding to the parabola vertex. In the subset with higher Hb (high Hb), sFeOx was positively associated (r = 0.44, p = 0.003) while in the low Hb subset, the association was negative (r = -0.26, p = 0.01). Notably, we found that the concentration of Cp was significantly higher in Low Hb compared to High Hb subsample (p < 0.05), with this multicopper oxidase selectively contributing to sFeOx in the former group (r = 0.348, p = 0.001). Collectively, this exploratory study suggests that ferroxidases might play a role in dispatching the body's iron toward erythropoietic tissues, with Cp contribution that might become more important in stress-like conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Romani
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Internal and Cardiopulmonary Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Savonarola 9, 44100, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristina Bosi
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Internal and Cardiopulmonary Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Savonarola 9, 44100, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Ferrari
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Le Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, IT-60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Zuliani
- Department of Medical Science, Section of Internal and Cardiopulmonary Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Savonarola 9, 44100, Ferrara, Italy
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Nava G, Ceccarello E, Giavazzi F, Salina M, Damin F, Chiari M, Buscaglia M, Bellini T, Zanchetta G. Label-free detection of DNA single-base mismatches using a simple reflectance-based optical technique. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2016; 18:13395-402. [PMID: 27122358 DOI: 10.1039/c5cp08017g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Rapid and quantitative detection of the binding of nucleic acids to surface-immobilized probes remains a challenge in many biomedical applications. We investigated the hybridization of a set of fully complementary and defected 12-base long DNA oligomers by using the Reflective Phantom Interface (RPI), a recently developed multiplexed label-free detection technique. Based on the simple measurement of reflected light intensity, this technology enables to quantify the hybridization directly as it occurs on the surface with a sensitivity of 10 pg mm(-2). We found a strong effect of single-base mismatches and of their location on hybridization kinetics and equilibrium binding. In line with previous studies, we found that DNA-DNA binding is weaker on a surface than in the bulk. Our data indicate that this effect is a consequence of weak nonspecific binding of the probes to the surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Nava
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Mediche e Medicina Traslazionale, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Fratelli Cervi 93, 20090 Segrate, Milano, Italy.
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Morcaldi G, Bellini T, Rossi C, Maghnie M, Boccardo F, Bonioli E, Bellini C. LYMPHODYSPLASIA AND KRAS MUTATION: A CASE REPORT AND LITERATURE REVIEW. Lymphology 2015; 48:121-127. [PMID: 26939159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Cardio-facio-cutaneous (CFC) syndrome is a very rare and sporadic disease whose characteristics include dysmorphic facial appearance, ectodermal abnormalities, cardiac abnormalities, growth retardation and neurodevelopmental delay. This syndrome is classified as one of the RAS syndromes which are caused by altered signal transduction of the RAS/MAPK (mitogen activated protein kinase) pathway due to the mutation of genes including BRAF, MEK1/2, HRAS and KRAS. Other RAS syndromes, such as Costello syndrome and Noonan syndrome, share clinical features with CFC. Moreover, patients with the same clinical phenotype may have different molecular diagnoses. Clinical diagnosis is the starting pointfor correct classification. We describe the clinical data of one case of CFC syndrome, genetically determined by KRAS mutation, that involved chylothorax, lymphedema, sinus pericranii, craniosynostosis, and seizures. This is the second case report of the literature.
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Cervellati C, Trentini A, Romani A, Bellini T, Bosi C, Ortolani B, Zurlo A, Passaro A, Seripa D, Zuliani G. Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities of paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), mild cognitive impairment, and 2-year conversion to dementia: A pilot study. J Neurochem 2015; 135:395-401. [PMID: 26178739 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Converging lines of evidence suggest that paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) may confer protection against inflammatory and oxidative challenge which, in turn, plays a key-role in the onset and progression of dementia. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether serum PON-1 paraoxonase/arylesterase activities might predict the clinical conversion of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) or vascular dementia (VAD). Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase activities were measured by spectrophotometric assays at baseline in 141 MCI patients (median age: 77 years; interquartile range 71-81) and in 78 healthy controls (median age: 76 years; interquartile range 73-79). After 2 years of follow-up, 86 MCI remained stable (MCI/MCI), 34 converted to LOAD (MCI/LOAD), whereas 21 converted to VAD (MCI/VAD). Baseline arylesterase activity was lower in all MCI groups compared with controls (all p < 0.01), whereas paraoxonase activity was lower in MCI/VAD group compared to controls (p < 0.05) and MCI/MCI patients (p = 0.009). Low paraoxonase and arylesterase activities (I quartile) were associated to higher risk of conversion to VAD (OR: 3.74, 95% CI: 1.37-10.25 and OR: 3.16, 95% CI: 1.17-8.56, respectively). Our results suggest that in MCI patients low PON-1 activity might contribute to identify individuals susceptible to develop vascular dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Cervellati
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Arianna Romani
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Section of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cristina Bosi
- Section of Internal and Cardiopulmonary Medicine, Department of Medical Science, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Beatrice Ortolani
- Section of Internal and Cardiopulmonary Medicine, Department of Medical Science, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Amedeo Zurlo
- Operative Unit of Geriatrics, S. Anna University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Section of Internal and Cardiopulmonary Medicine, Department of Medical Science, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Seripa
- Geriatric Unit of the IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zuliani
- Section of Internal and Cardiopulmonary Medicine, Department of Medical Science, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Fainardi E, Bortolotti D, Bolzani S, Castellazzi M, Tamborino C, Roversi G, Baldi E, Caniatti ML, Casetta I, Gentili V, Granieri E, Rizzo R, Granieri E, Castellazzi M, Casetta I, Tola MR, Fainardi E, Dallocchio F, Bellini T, Rizzo R, Rotola A, Di Luca D, Seraceni S, Contini C, Sabbioni S, Negrini M, Tognon M, Antonelli T, Groppo E, Gentile M, Baldi E, Caniatti ML, Ceruti S, Manfrinato MR, Trentini A, Bortolotti D, Miotto E, Ferracin M, Mazzoni E, Pietrobon S, Masini I, Rotondo JC, Martini F, Baruzzi A, Roberto D’Alessandro R, Michelucci R, Salvi F, Stecchi S, Scandellari C, Terzano G, Granella F, Nichelli P, Sola P, Ferraro D, Vitetta F, Simone AM, Bedin R, Marcello N, Motti L, Montepietra S, Guidetti D, Immovilli P, Montanari E, Pesci I, Guareschi A, Greco G, Santangelo M, Mauro AM, Malagù S, Rasi F, Spadoni M, Galeotti M, Fiorani L, Neri W, Ravasio A, Pasquinelli M, Gutman S, Monaldini C. Cerebrospinal fluid amounts of HLA-G in dimeric form are strongly associated to patients with MRI inactive multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2015; 22:245-9. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458515590647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: The relevance of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G in dimeric form in multiple sclerosis (MS) is still unknown. Objective: To investigate the contribution of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) HLA-G dimers in MS pathogenesis. Methods: CSF amounts of 78-kDa HLA-G dimers were measured by western blot analysis in 80 MS relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients and in 81 inflammatory and 70 non-inflammatory controls. Results: CSF amounts of 78kDa HLA-G dimers were more frequent in RRMS than in inflammatory ( p<0.01) and non-inflammatory controls ( p<0.001) and in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) inactive than in MRI active RRMS ( p<0.00001). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that HLA-G dimers may be implicated in termination of inflammatory response occurring in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Fainardi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Neuroradilogy Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Daria Bortolotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Silvia Bolzani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmine Tamborino
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Roversi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Baldi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Caniatti
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Neurology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Arcispedale S. Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Casetta
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gentili
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, Section of Neurology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Trentini A, Manfrinato MC, Castellazzi M, Tamborino C, Roversi G, Volta CA, Baldi E, Tola MR, Granieri E, Dallocchio F, Bellini T, Fainardi E. TIMP-1 resistant matrix metalloproteinase-9 is the predominant serum active isoform associated with MRI activity in patients with multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler 2015; 21:1121-30. [PMID: 25662349 DOI: 10.1177/1352458514560925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [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: 07/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) depends on two isoforms, an 82 kDa active MMP-9 modulated by its specific tissue inhibitor (TIMP-1), and a 65 kDa TIMP-1 resistant active MMP-9. The relevance of these two enzymatic isoforms in multiple sclerosis (MS) is still unknown. OBJECTIVE To investigate the contribution of the TIMP-1 modulated and resistant active MMP-9 isoforms to MS pathogenesis. METHODS We measured the serum levels of the 82 kDa and TIMP-1 resistant active MMP-9 isoforms by activity assay systems in 86 relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients, categorized according to clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of disease activity, and in 70 inflammatory (OIND) and 69 non-inflammatory (NIND) controls. RESULTS Serum levels of TIMP-1 resistant MMP-9 were more elevated in MS patients than in OIND and NIND (p < 0.05, p < 0.02, respectively). Conversely, 82 kDa active MMP-9 was higher in NIND than in the OIND and MS patients (p < 0.01 and p < 0.00001, respectively). MRI-active patients had higher levels of TIMP-1 resistant MMP-9 and 82 kDa active MMP-9, than did those with MRI inactive MS (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). CONCLUSION Our findings suggested that the TIMP-1 resistant MMP-9 seem to be the predominantly active isoform contributing to MS disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria C Manfrinato
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Carmine Tamborino
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gloria Roversi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo A Volta
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine; University of Ferrara; Italy
| | - Eleonora Baldi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria, Arcispedale S Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria R Tola
- Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Arcispedale S Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Franco Dallocchio
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Fainardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Arcispedale S Anna, Ferrara, Italy
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Spadaro S, Reverberi R, Fogagnolo A, Ragazzi R, Napoli N, Marangoni E, Bellini T, Volta CA. Transfusion of stored red blood cells in critically ill trauma patients: a retrospective study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2015; 19:2689-96. [PMID: 26221901] [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: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The many published studies on the effects of the transfusion of stored red blood cells on clinical outcomes yielded discordant results. Therefore, we chose to study patients with severe trauma. The clinical outcomes considered included in-hospital mortality, the occurrence of sepsis, length of stay in intensive care unit and in hospital, and days of mechanical ventilation. PATIENTS AND METHODS We selected all patients with traumatic injury, who received at least 2 red cell units in the first day of admission. Patients were divided into two groups: those who had received fresh red cells only (fresh group) and those who had received at least one "old" red cell unit (old group). The red cells were considered fresh if they had been stored <14 days. RESULTS The fresh and old groups included 376 and 321 patients, respectively. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were comparable between the groups. However, old group received more red cell and plasma units during whole hospital stay (red cells: 11 ± 7 vs 6 ± 4, p < 0.001; plasma: 7 [0-9] vs 3 [0-6]). Among outcomes, only length of stay in intensive care unit (old vs fresh: 18 ± 9 vs 12 ± 8 days, p < 0.001) and in hospital (77 ± 35 vs 45 ± 30 days, p < 0.001) differed significantly between groups. The association remained statistically significant in a multivariate analysis including known confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS Patients with major trauma transfused with old (≥14 days) red cells had a longer length of stay in intensive care unit and in hospital, without any difference in mortality, occurence of sepsis or days of mechanical ventilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Spadaro
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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Castellazzi M, Contini C, Tamborino C, Fasolo F, Roversi G, Seraceni S, Rizzo R, Baldi E, Tola MR, Bellini T, Granieri E, Fainardi E. Epstein-Barr virus-specific intrathecal oligoclonal IgG production in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is limited to a subset of patients and is composed of low-affinity antibodies. J Neuroinflammation 2014; 11:188. [PMID: 25391491 PMCID: PMC4232674 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-014-0188-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to investigate intrathecal production and affinity distributions of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific antibodies in multiple sclerosis (MS) and controls. METHODS Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum concentrations, quantitative intrathecal synthesis, oligoclonal bands (OCB) patterns and affinity distributions of anti-Epstein Barr virus (EBV) antibodies were evaluated in 100 relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients and 200 age- and sex-matched controls with other inflammatory neurological disorders (OIND) and other noninflammatory neurological disorders (NIND). RESULTS Levels of anti-EBNA-1 and anti-viral capsid antigen (VCA) IgG were different in both the CSF (P <0.0001 and P <0.01, respectively) and serum (P <0.001 and P <0.05, respectively) among the RRMS, OIND and NIND. An intrathecal synthesis of anti-EBNA-1 IgG and anti-VCA IgG, as indicated by the antibody index, was underrepresented in the RRMS, OIND and NIND (range 1 to 7%). EBV-specific OCB were detected in 24% of the RRMS patients and absent in the controls. High-affinity antibodies were more elevated in the RRMS and in the OIND than in the NIND for CSF anti-EBNA-1 IgG (P <0.0001) and anti-VCA IgG (P <0.0001). After treatment with increasing concentrations of sodium thiocyanate, the EBV-specific IgG OCB had low affinity in all 24 RRMS patients analyzed. CONCLUSIONS Our findings do not support the potential role of an EBV persistent brain chronic infection in MS and suggest that an EBV-specific intrathecal oligoclonal IgG production can occur in a subset of MS patients as part of humoral polyreactivity driven by chronic brain inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Carlo Contini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Carmine Tamborino
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Francesca Fasolo
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Gloria Roversi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Silva Seraceni
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Roberta Rizzo
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Baldi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Tola
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Enrico Fainardi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via Aldo Moro 8, I-44124, Cona Ferrara, Italy.
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Cervellati C, Romani A, Fainardi E, Trentini A, Squerzanti M, Baldi E, Caniatti ML, Granieri E, Bellini T, Castellazzi M. Serum ferroxidase activity in patients with multiple sclerosis: a pilot study. In Vivo 2014; 28:1197-1200. [PMID: 25398823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that oxidative stress might contribute to demyelination and axonal damage in multiple sclerosis (MS). Ferroxidase (FeOx) activity of ceruloplasmin prevents the formation of free radicals from Fe(2+) by promoting the incorporation of this pro-oxidant ion to transferrin. The aim of our study was to investigate serum FeOx activity in a cohort of patients with MS and neurological controls. Serum FeOx activity was determined in 69 relapsing-remitting patients with MS and in 62 patients with other inflammatory neurological disorders (OIND) and 52 patients with other non-inflammatory neurological disorders (NIND) as controls. Serum FeOx activity was lower (p<0.01) in MS and OIND than in NIND, without any significant differences among MS patients grouped according to clinical and magnetic resonance evidence of disease activity. A reduced serum FeOx activity, which can potentially lead to a rise in oxidative stress-induced biomolecular damage, seems to be a shared condition in inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system including MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Arianna Romani
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Fainardi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Sant'Anna Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Monica Squerzanti
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Baldi
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Sant'Anna Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Caniatti
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, Sant'Anna Hospital, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Granieri
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Castellazzi
- Department of Biomedical and Specialist Surgical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Trentini A, Comabella M, Tintoré M, Koel-Simmelink MJA, Killestein J, Roos B, Rovira A, Korth C, Ottis P, Blankenstein MA, Montalban X, Bellini T, Teunissen CE. N-Acetylaspartate and neurofilaments as biomarkers of axonal damage in patients with progressive forms of multiple sclerosis. J Neurol 2014; 261:2338-43. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-014-7507-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Bellini C, Villa G, Sambuceti G, Traggiai C, Campisi C, Bellini T, Morcaldi G, Massocco D, Bonioli E, Boccardo F. Lymphoscintigraphy patterns in newborns and children with congenital lymphatic dysplasia. Lymphology 2014; 47:28-39. [PMID: 25109167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We performed lymphoscintigraphy on 31 patients (newborns and children) affected by congenital lymphatic dysplasia according to our previously published protocol. Congenital lymphatic dysplasia may present with various degrees of clinical severity, ranging from nonimmune hydrops fetalis with visceral effusions to lymphedema alone. We recommend that lymphoscintigraphy should be strongly considered in all patients with signs of lymphatic dysplasia, including those with minimal and initial signs of lymphatic impairment, in order to obtain a very early diagnosis and to start treatment. Lymphoscintigraphy is safe and useful in the diagnosis of lymphatic dysplasia in the newborn and children. Moreover, it is well tolerated by patients and well accepted by their parents.
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Trentini A, Bellini T, Manfrinato MC, Dallocchio F, Fainardi E, Alvisi R, Alvisi V, Volta CA. Balanced and unbalanced solutions modulate the release of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) from neutrophils in response to inflammatory stimuli: an in vitro study. Inflamm Res 2014; 63:325-8. [PMID: 24458309 PMCID: PMC3983875 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-014-0709-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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: 06/12/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN We investigated the effect of balanced (BS) and unbalanced (UBS) solutions in the absence or presence of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) on neutrophil functionality, evaluating the release of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and MMP-8. MATERIALS AND METHODS Neutrophils were isolated by gradient centrifugation and dextran sedimentation and incubated in BS or UBS without or with HES, in the absence or presence of Interleukin-8 (IL-8) or Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). MMP-9, MPO, and MMP-8 were assayed by commercially available ELISA kits. RESULTS There was not any influence of volume replacement solutions on the release of the enzymes from resting neutrophils. After IL-8 stimulation, the release of MMP-9 was higher in BS than in UBS or RPMI-1640, whereas HES enhanced its release regardless of the composition. After LPS stimulation, the release of MMP-9 was higher in both UBS and BS than RPMI-1640, but HES brought its release back to physiological conditions. No difference was found in the release of MPO and MMP-8 after stimulation with IL-8 or LPS. CONCLUSION Volume replacement solutions might have an impact on the release of MMP-9 depending on the inflammatory milieu, suggesting that the use of balanced or unbalanced solutions is not a neutral choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Biomedical and Specialty Surgery Sciences, University of Ferrara, Luigi Borsari 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
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Volta CA, Trentini A, Farabegoli L, Manfrinato MC, Alvisi V, Dallocchio F, Marangoni E, Alvisi R, Bellini T. Effects of two different strategies of fluid administration on inflammatory mediators, plasma electrolytes and acid/base disorders in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery: a randomized double blind study. J Inflamm (Lond) 2013; 10:29. [PMID: 24059479 PMCID: PMC4015738 DOI: 10.1186/1476-9255-10-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Administration of normal saline might increase circulating levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and may cause variation of plasmatic electrolytic and hyperchloremic acidosis, which in turn can impair renal function. Hence the use of balanced solutions could influence the inflammatory cascade triggered by the surgical procedures, the plasmatic electrolyte concentration, the acid-base equilibrium, and the renal function. METHODS This is a double blind randomized trial. Forty patients undergoing major abdominal surgery (bowel cancer) were allocated in two groups, the balanced solution (BS) group in which the fluids administered were balanced solutions (colloids and crystalloids); and the unbalanced solution (UBS) group in which the fluids administered were unbalanced solutions (colloids and crystalloids). Measurements were performed after anaesthesia induction (T0), at the end of surgery (T1), within 2 h after surgery (T2) and 24 h after the beginning of surgery (T3). The following data were collected: 1) active matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and its tissue inhibitor (TIMP-1), IL-6, IL-8, IL-10; 2) blood gases variables; 3) electrolytes, albumin, total serum protein and the strong ion difference; 4) neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) from urinary sample. RESULTS The BS group exhibited higher circulating level of IL-10 and TIMP-1 and lower level of active MMP-9. The UBS group experienced hypercloremia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, worse acid-base equilibrium and higher level of NGAL. CONCLUSIONS The use of balanced solutions was responsible of less alteration of plasmatic electrolytes, acid-base equilibrium, kidney function and it might be associated with an early anti-inflammatory mechanisms triggering. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov (Ref: NCT01320891).
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Alberto Volta
- Department of Surgical, Anaesthesiological and Radiological Science, Section of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, S, Anna Hospital, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro n, 8-44124 Cona, Ferrara, Italy.
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Rizzo R, Trentini A, Bortolotti D, Manfrinato MC, Rotola A, Castellazzi M, Melchiorri L, Di Luca D, Dallocchio F, Fainardi E, Bellini T. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) generates soluble HLA-G1 by cell surface proteolytic shedding. Mol Cell Biochem 2013; 381:243-55. [PMID: 23737137 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-013-1708-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) molecules are non-classical HLA class I antigens with an important role in pregnancy immune regulation and inflammation control. Soluble HLA-G proteins can be generated through two mechanisms: alternative splicing and proteolytic release, which is known to be metalloprotease mediated. Among this class of enzymes, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) might be involved in the HLA-G1 membrane cleavage. Of particular interest are MMP-2 and MMP-9, which regulate the inflammatory process by cytokine and chemokine modulation. We evaluated the effect of MMP-9 and MMP-2 on HLA-G1 membrane shedding. In particular, we analyzed the in vitro effect of these two gelatinases on the secretion of HLA-G1 via proteolytic cleavage in 221-G1-transfected cell line, in JEG3 cell line, and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The results obtained by both cell lines showed the role of MMP-2 in HLA-G1 shedding. On the contrary, MMP-9 was not involved in this process. In addition, we identified three possible highly specific cleavage sites for MMP-2, whereas none were detected for MMP-9. This study suggests an effective link between MMP-2 and HLA-G1 shedding, increasing our knowledge on the regulatory machinery beyond HLA-G regulation in physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Rizzo
- Section of Microbiology and Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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Bellini C, Ergaz Z, Boccardo F, Bellini T, Campisi CC, Bonioli E, Ramenghi LA. Dynamics of pleural fluid effusion and chylothorax in the fetus and newborn: role of the lymphatic system. Lymphology 2013; 46:75-84. [PMID: 24354106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Pleural fluid effusion particularly chylothorax is a relatively rare occurrence in the newborn, but when it occurs it is often life-threatening. In this article, we describe and illustrate the morphologic features of the visceral and parietal pleura including pleural lymphatics and the physiology and pathophysiology of pleural fluid balance. The role and function of the lymphatic system in controlling the volume and composition of pleural liquid are detailed and a conceptual scheme presented. Finally, the crucial role of inadequate lymphatic drainage (either functional overload from an imbalance in Starling forces or mechanical insufficiency from lymphatic dysplasia) is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Bellini
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Z Ergaz
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Neonatology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - F Boccardo
- Department of Surgery-Unit of Lymphatic Surgery, IRCCS S. Martino University Hospital, IST National Institute for Cancer Research University of Genoa, Italy
| | - T Bellini
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - C C Campisi
- Department of Surgery-Unit of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (CCC), IRCCS S. Martino University Hospital, IST National Institute for Cancer Research University of Genoa, Italy
| | - E Bonioli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - L A Ramenghi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
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Bellini C, Ergaz Z, Radicioni M, Forner-Cordero I, Witte M, Perotti G, Figar T, Tubaldi L, Camerini P, Bar-Oz B, Yatsiv I, Arad I, Traverso F, Bellini T, Boccardo F, Campisi C, Dalmonte P, Vercellino N, Manikanti S, Bonioli E. Congenital fetal and neonatal visceral chylous effusions: neonatal chylothorax and chylous ascites revisited. A multicenter retrospective study. Lymphology 2012; 45:91-102. [PMID: 23342929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
This retrospective study was carried out at eight Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) Centers worldwide on 33 newborns presenting at birth with pleural, pericardial, or abdominal chylous effusions. Diagnosis of chylous effusion is based on findings of fluid with a milk-like appearance, a concentration of triglycerides in pleural effusion >1.1 mmol/l, and a total cell count >1,000 cells/ml with a predominance of >80% lymphocytes. Thirty-three newborns met the inclusion criteria and were studied. Six subjects who presented at birth with fetal effusion were treated by in-utero pleuro-amniotic shunt. Five of these patients are alive at follow-up. At birth, pleural drainage was performed in 29/33 patients and abdominal drainage was carried out in 3/33. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) was given to 32/33 patients; 19/23 patients were fed a medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). No adverse effects were observed. Eight patients were treated with Octreotide at dosages ranging from 1 to 7 mcg/kg/hour for 8 to 35 days. All patients showed decreased chylous production. Two patients were treated by pleurodesis. Twenty-two babies are alive after at least 6 months follow-up, 9/33 are deceased, and 2 were lost to follow-up. Clinical conditions of survivors are basically good except for lung involvement [chronic lung disease (CLD) or lung lymphangiectasia] and lymphedema. All patients were using a MCT diet at follow-up with good control of chylous effusion. Visceral chylous effusions of the fetus and neonate are rare disorders, and there currently is only partial agreement on decision-making strategies. We suggest the need for an international prospective trial in an effort to establish the efficacy and effectiveness of diagnostic and therapeutic options described in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Bellini
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Genoa, IRCCS Gaslini, Genoa, Italy.
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Bellini C, Rutigliani M, Boccardo F, Campisi C, Bellini T, Bonioli E, Fulcheri E. Are there lymphatic vessels in the placenta? Lymphology 2012; 45:34-36. [PMID: 22768471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The role of lymphatics in placentation has been scantily studied and the true existence of placental lymphatics is under debate. Numerous blood and lymphatic-lineage molecule markers are now available and they are expressed in human placental tissue. D2-40 expression at the placental stromal level seems to indicate that network-forming, podoplanin-expressing cells may act as a reticular-lymphatic-like conductive network. This exciting area at the intersection of perinatology and lymphology needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Bellini
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University of Genoa, I.R.C.C.S. Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.
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