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Calderaro A, Piccolo G, Chezzi C. The Laboratory Diagnosis of Malaria: A Focus on the Diagnostic Assays in Non-Endemic Areas. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:695. [PMID: 38255768 PMCID: PMC10815132 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020695] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Even if malaria is rare in Europe, it is a medical emergency and programs for its control should ensure both an early diagnosis and a prompt treatment within 24-48 h from the onset of the symptoms. The increasing number of imported malaria cases as well as the risk of the reintroduction of autochthonous cases encouraged laboratories in non-endemic countries to adopt diagnostic methods/algorithms. Microscopy remains the gold standard, but with limitations. Rapid diagnostic tests have greatly expanded the ability to diagnose malaria for rapid results due to simplicity and low cost, but they lack sensitivity and specificity. PCR-based assays provide more relevant information but need well-trained technicians. As reported in the World Health Organization Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030, the development of point-of-care testing is important for the improvement of diagnosis with beneficial consequences for prompt/accurate treatment and for preventing the spread of the disease. Despite their limitations, diagnostic methods contribute to the decline of malaria mortality. Recently, evidence suggested that artificial intelligence could be utilized for assisting pathologists in malaria diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (G.P.); (C.C.)
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La Valle A, d'Annunzio G, Campanello C, Tantari G, Pistorio A, Napoli F, Patti G, Crocco M, Bassi M, Minuto N, Piccolo G, Maghnie M. Are glucose and insulin levels at all time points during OGTT a reliable marker of diabetes mellitus risk in pediatric obesity? J Endocrinol Invest 2023:10.1007/s40618-023-02030-6. [PMID: 36763246 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02030-6] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Childhood overweight and obesity associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome represent the new global pandemic and the main causative factors for dysglycemia, prediabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Predictors, such as HOMA-IR, HOMA-β%, and QUICKI lack specific reference values in children. OGTT is a gold standard for glycometabolic assessment. Recently, a glycemic level higher than 155 mg/dl at + 60' after glucose ingestion has been defined as a risk factor for T2DM in obese adolescents. We aim to analyze and correlate fasting insulin-resistance markers with OGTT results in overweight/obese children and adolescents. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated glucose and insulin values during a 2-h OGTT every 30 min in 236 overweight/obese patients. Glucose values and insulin sum during OGTT were compared to glycometabolic indexes and different cut-off values for insulin sum. RESULTS A 1-h glucose > 155 mg/dl and insulin sum > 535 microU/ml at all times during OGTT are the best predictors of diabetes risk in obese youths. A1-h glucose > 155 mg/dl is significantly associated with HbA1c > 5.7%, while no association was observed between HbA1c > 5.7% and glucose levels at baseline and 2 h. The ability of the standardized HOMA-IR to predict the prediabetes status is clearly lower than the total insulin sum at OGTT. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that also 1-h post-OGTT glucose, together with HbA1c, is an effective diabetes predictor.
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Affiliation(s)
- A La Valle
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - G d'Annunzio
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - C Campanello
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - G Tantari
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - A Pistorio
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - F Napoli
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - G Patti
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Crocco
- Gastroenterology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Bassi
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - N Minuto
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - G Piccolo
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
- Neurooncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147, Genoa, Italy.
| | - M Maghnie
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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Satragno C, Verrico A, Giannelli F, Ferrero A, Campora S, Turazzi M, Cavagnetto F, Schiavetti I, Garrè ML, Garibotto F, Milanaccio C, Piccolo G, Crocco M, Ramaglia A, Di Profio S, Barra S, Belgioia L. High dose craniospinal irradiation as independent risk factor of permanent alopecia in childhood medulloblastoma survivors: cohort study and literature review. J Neurooncol 2022; 160:659-668. [PMID: 36369416 PMCID: PMC9758075 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-022-04186-2] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our aim was to determine the main risk factors related to the occurrence of permanent alopecia in childhood medulloblastoma (MB) survivors. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the clinical features of all consecutive MB survivors treated at our institute. We divided the patients into 3 groups depending on the craniospinal irradiation (CSI) dose received and defined permanent alopecia first in terms of the skin region affected (whole scalp and nape region), then on the basis of the toxicity degree (G). Any relationship between permanent alopecia and other characteristics was investigated by a univariate and multivariate analysis and Odds ratio (OR) with confidence interval (CI) was reported. RESULTS We included 41 patients with a mean10-year follow-up. High dose CSI resulted as an independent factor leading to permanent hair loss in both groups: alopecia of the whole scalp (G1 p-value 0.030, G2 p-value 0.003) and of the nape region (G1 p-value 0.038, G2 p-value 0.006). The posterior cranial fossa (PCF) boost volume and dose were not significant factors at multivariate analysis neither in permanent hair loss of the whole scalp nor only in the nuchal region. CONCLUSION In pediatric patients with MB, the development of permanent alopecia seems to depend only on the CSI dose ≥ 36 Gy. Acute damage to the hair follicle is dose dependent, but in terms of late side effects, constant and homogeneous daily irradiation of a large volume may have a stronger effect than a higher but focal dose of radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Satragno
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Sperimentale (DIMES), Università Degli Studi Di Genova, Via Leon Battista Alberti, 16132, Genova, GE, Italia.
| | - A Verrico
- Unità di Neuroncologia, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italia
| | - F Giannelli
- UO Radioterapia Oncologica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italia
| | - A Ferrero
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Sperimentale (DIMES), Università Degli Studi Di Genova, Via Leon Battista Alberti, 16132, Genova, GE, Italia
| | - S Campora
- Dipartimento di Scienza Della Salute (DISSAL), Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
| | - M Turazzi
- Dipartimento di Scienza Della Salute (DISSAL), Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
| | - F Cavagnetto
- UO Fisica Sanitaria, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italia
| | - I Schiavetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Della Salute (DISSAL), Sezione di Biostatistica, Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
| | - M L Garrè
- Unità di Neuroncologia, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italia
| | - F Garibotto
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Riabilitazione, Oftalmologia, Genetica, Ginecologia e Pediatria (DINOGMI), Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
| | - C Milanaccio
- Unità di Neuroncologia, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italia
| | - G Piccolo
- Unità di Neuroncologia, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italia
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Riabilitazione, Oftalmologia, Genetica, Ginecologia e Pediatria (DINOGMI), Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
| | - M Crocco
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Riabilitazione, Oftalmologia, Genetica, Ginecologia e Pediatria (DINOGMI), Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
| | - A Ramaglia
- Unità di Neuroradiologia, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italia
| | - S Di Profio
- Unità di Psicologia, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italia
| | - S Barra
- UO Radioterapia Oncologica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italia
| | - L Belgioia
- Dipartimento di Scienza Della Salute (DISSAL), Università Degli Studi di Genova, Genova, Italia
- UO Radioterapia Oncologica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italia
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Balakrishnan A, Jah A, Lesurtel M, Andersson B, Gibbs P, Harper SJF, Huguet EL, Kosmoliaptsis V, Liau SS, Praseedom RK, Ramia JM, Branes A, Lendoire J, Maithel S, Serrablo A, Achalandabaso M, Adham M, Ahmet A, Al-Sarireh B, Albiol Quer M, Alconchel F, Alejandro R, Alsammani M, Alseidi A, Anand A, Anselmo A, Antonakis P, Arabadzhieva E, de Aretxabala X, Aroori S, Ashley S, Ausania F, Banerjee A, Barabino M, Bartlett A, Bartsch F, Belli A, Beristain-Hernandez J, Berrevoet F, Bhatti A, Bhojwani R, Bjornsson B, Blaz T, Byrne M, Calvo M, Castellanos J, Castro M, Cavallucci D, Chang D, Christodoulis G, Ciacio O, Clavien P, Coker A, Conde-Rodriguez M, D'Amico F, D'Hondt M, Daams F, Dasari B, De Beillis M, de Meijer V, Dede K, Deiro G, Delgado F, Desai G, Di Gioia A, Di Martino M, Dixon M, Dorovinis P, Dumitrascu T, Ebata T, Eilard M, Erdmann J, Erkan M, Famularo S, Felli E, Fergadi M, Fernandez G, Fox A, Galodha S, Galun D, Ganandha S, Garcia R, Gemenetzis G, Giannone F, Gil L, Giorgakis E, Giovinazzo F, Giuffrida M, Giuliani T, Giuliante F, Gkekas I, Goel M, Goh B, Gomes A, Gruenberger T, Guevara O, Gulla A, Gupta A, Gupta R, Hakeem A, Hamid H, Heinrich S, Helton S, Heumann A, Higuchi R, Hughes D, Inarejos B, Ivanecz A, Iwao Y, Iype S, Jaen I, Jie M, Jones R, Kacirek K, Kalayarasan R, Kaldarov A, Kaman L, Kanhere H, Kapoor V, Karanicolas P, Karayiannakis A, Kausar A, Khan Z, Kim DS, Klose J, Knowles B, Koh P, Kolodziejczyk P, Komorowski A, Koong J, Kozyrin I, Krishna A, Kron P, Kumar N, van Laarhoven S, Lakhey P, Lanari J, Laurenzi A, Leow V, Limbu Y, Liu YB, Lob S, Lolis E, Lopez-Lopez V, Lozano R, Lundgren L, Machairas M, Magouliotis D, Mahamid A, Malde D, Malek A, Malik H, Malleo G, Marino M, Mayo S, Mazzola M, Memeo R, Menon K, Menzulin R, Mohan R, Morgul H, Moris D, Mulita F, Muttillo E, Nahm C, Nandasena M, Nashidengo P, Nickkholgh A, Nikov A, Noel C, O'Reilly D, O'Rourke T, Ohtsuka M, Omoshoro-Jones J, Pandanaboyana S, Pararas N, Patel R, Patkar S, Peng J, Perfecto A, Perinel J, Perivoliotis K, Perra T, Phan M, Piccolo G, Porcu A, Primavesi F, Primrose J, Pueyo-Periz E, Radenkovic D, Rammohan A, Rowcroft A, Sakata J, Saladino E, Schena C, Scholer A, Schwarz C, Serrano P, Silva M, Soreide K, Sparrelid E, Stattner S, Sturesson C, Sugiura T, Sumo M, Sutcliffe R, Teh C, Teo J, Tepetes K, Thapa P, Thepbunchonchai A, Torres J, Torres O, Torzili G, Tovikkai C, Troncoso A, Tsoulfas G, Tuzuher A, Tzimas G, Umar G, Urbani L, Vanagas T, Varga, Velayutham V, Vigano L, Wakai T, Yang Z, Yip V, Zacharoulis D, Zakharov E, Zimmitti G. Heterogeneity of management practices surrounding operable gallbladder cancer - results of the OMEGA-S international HPB surgical survey. HPB (Oxford) 2022; 24:2006-2012. [PMID: 35922277 DOI: 10.1016/j.hpb.2022.06.014] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an aggressive, uncommon malignancy, with variation in operative approaches adopted across centres and few large-scale studies to guide practice. We aimed to identify the extent of heterogeneity in GBC internationally to better inform the need for future multicentre studies. METHODS A 34-question online survey was disseminated to members of the European-African Hepatopancreatobiliary Association (EAHPBA), American Hepatopancreatobiliary Association (AHPBA) and Asia-Pacific Hepatopancreatobiliary Association (A-PHPBA) regarding practices around diagnostic workup, operative approach, utilization of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies and surveillance strategies. RESULTS Two hundred and three surgeons responded from 51 countries. High liver resection volume units (>50 resections/year) organised HPB multidisciplinary team discussion of GBCs more commonly than those with low volumes (p < 0.0001). Management practices exhibited areas of heterogeneity, particularly around operative extent. Contrary to consensus guidelines, anatomical liver resections were favoured over non-anatomical resections for T3 tumours and above, lymphadenectomy extent was lower than recommended, and a minority of respondents still routinely excised the common bile duct or port sites. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest some similarities in the management of GBC internationally, but also specific areas of practice which differed from published guidelines. Transcontinental collaborative studies on GBC are necessary to establish evidence-based practice to minimise variation and optimise outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Balakrishnan
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom.
| | - Asif Jah
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Mickael Lesurtel
- Department of HPB Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Beaujon Hospital, University of Paris Cité, 100 Bd du Général Leclerc, 92110, Clichy, France
| | - Bodil Andersson
- Department of Surgery, Lund University, Skane University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Paul Gibbs
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J F Harper
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Emmanuel L Huguet
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Vasilis Kosmoliaptsis
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Siong S Liau
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Raaj K Praseedom
- Department of HPB Surgery, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Jose M Ramia
- Department of Surgery, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante, Avenida Pintor Baeza, 12 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Alejandro Branes
- Department of HPB Surgery, Hospital Sotero del Rio, Av. Concha y Toro 3459, Puente Alto, Región Metropolitana, Chile
| | - Javier Lendoire
- Department of Surgery, University of Buenos Aires, Hospital Dr Cosme Argerich, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Shishir Maithel
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322 USA
| | - Alejandro Serrablo
- Department of HPB Surgery, Miguel Servet University Hospital, Zaragoza, Spain
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Del Piano F, Monnolo A, Piccolo G, Vozzo S, Iaccarino D, Melini S, Lama A, Pirozzi C, Ferrante M. P07-43 Subchronic exposure to polystyrene microplastic provokes intestinal damage in gilthead seabreams (Sparus aurata). Toxicol Lett 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2022.07.386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Calderaro A, Montecchini S, Buttrini M, Piccolo G, Rossi S, Arcangeletti MC, Farina B, De Conto F, Chezzi C. Malaria Diagnosis in Non-Endemic Settings: The European Experience in the Last 22 Years. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9112265. [PMID: 34835391 PMCID: PMC8620059 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9112265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate, prompt, and reliable tools for the diagnosis of malaria are crucial for tracking the successes or drawbacks of control and elimination efforts, and for future programs aimed at global malaria eradication. Although microscopy remains the gold standard method, the number of imported malaria cases and the risk of reappearance of autochthonous cases stimulated several laboratories located in European countries to evaluate methods and algorithms suited to non-endemic settings, where skilled microscopists are not always available. In this review, an overview of the field evaluation and a comparison of the methods used for the diagnosis of malaria by European laboratories is reported, showing that the development of numerous innovations is continuous. In particular, the combination of rapid diagnostic tests and molecular assays with microscopy represents a reliable system for the early diagnosis of malaria in non-endemic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0521-033499; Fax: +39-0521-993620
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Sabina Rossi
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy;
| | - Maria Cristina Arcangeletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Benedetta Farina
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Flora De Conto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (B.F.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
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Fusco F, Scognamiglio G, Guarguagli S, Merola A, Palma M, Borrelli N, Barracano R, Grimaldi N, Correra A, Piccolo G, La Rocca F, Del Giudice C, Colonna D, Romeo E, Sarubbi B. Prognostic relevance of thyroid disease in adults with congenital heart disease. Eur Heart J 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab724.1879] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) are frequently affected by thyroid diseases (TD). However, the clinical relevance of TD in ACHD remains unknown.
Purpose
We aimed to describe the prevalence of TD in the ACHD population and to ascertain whether TD are associated with worse outcome.
Methods
Clinical data on all consecutive patients aged >18 years attending our ACHD unit for a day-case between 2014 and 2019 were retrospectively collected. For statistical analysis, a composite endpoint was created combining the following events at follow-up: hospitalization for heart failure, new-onset tachyarrhythmic or bradyarrhythmic events and death.
Results
Four hundred ninety-five ACHD patients with a median age of 32.2 [24.5–45.6] years (46% male) were included. There was an overall prevalence of patients with moderate or complex lesions (414=84%). Compared to the group with no history of TD, patients in the TD were older, (41.9 [29.7–53.5] vs 30.2 [24.3–39] years; p<0.0001) and mainly female (77% vs 46%; p<0.0001) and more likely to have undergone at least two cardiac catheterization procedures (29 vs 13%; p<0.0001). Genetic disorders including Down syndrome were more prevalent in the group with TD (p<0.0001). Moreover, at last follow-up, those with TD had higher pro-BNP-nt values (243.5 [96.5–523] pg/ml Vs 94 [45–207] pg/ml; p<0.0001) and were in a more advanced NYHA class (27% vs 13% in class III-IV; p=0.0002). Echocardiography showed lower EF in the TD group (55 [55–60]% vs 60 [55–65]%; p=0.0002).
Median follow-up was 9.4 [4.5–13.1] years. Patients with TD had a higher unadjusted mortality rate, with a trend towards statistical significance (p=0.07). Sixty-four (42%) patients in the TD group and 43 (12.5%) met our composite endpoint, leading to a 10-year survival free from events of 53.7% Vs 86.5%, respectively (p<0.0001, Figure1). Multivariate analysis showed that age, ejection fraction, previous surgical palliation, advanced physiological stage and TD were independent predictors of our composite endpoint, even after stratification for genetic disorders as reported in table1. After adjustment for baseline differences between groups with propensity matching score using age, sex, disease complexity, physiological stage, previous palliative or reparative surgery, normal or reduced systemic ventricle ejection fraction, pulmonary arterial hypertension, cyanosis and presence of systemic right ventricle as independent variables, TD remained a strong predictor of cardiac events at follow-up with an hazard ratio of 4.47 (95% CI 2.42–8.28; p<0.0001).
Conclusion
TD is a strong predictor of adverse outcome in the ACHD population after exclusion of potential confounding factors, being related to a fourfold increased risk of events at follow-up.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1Table 1
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Affiliation(s)
- F Fusco
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - G Scognamiglio
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - S Guarguagli
- Ospedale SS Giovanni e Paolo AULSS3 Serenissima Venezia, Venice, Italy
| | - A Merola
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - M Palma
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - N Borrelli
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - R Barracano
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - N Grimaldi
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - A Correra
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - G Piccolo
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - F La Rocca
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - C Del Giudice
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - D Colonna
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - E Romeo
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
| | - B Sarubbi
- AO dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Naples, Italy
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Calderaro A, Buttrini M, Montecchini S, Piccolo G, Martinelli M, Dell’Anna ML, Di Maio A, Arcangeletti MC, Maccari C, De Conto F, Chezzi C. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 and Other Infectious Agents in Lower Respiratory Tract Samples Belonging to Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Units of a Tertiary-Care Hospital, Located in an Epidemic Area, during the Italian Lockdown. Microorganisms 2021; 9:185. [PMID: 33467079 PMCID: PMC7830127 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9010185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was the detection of infectious agents from lower respiratory tract (LRT) samples in order to describe their distribution in patients with severe acute respiratory failure and hospitalized in intensive care units (ICU) in an Italian tertiary-care hospital. LRT samples from 154 patients admitted to ICU from 27 February to 10 May 2020 were prospectively examined for respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, bacteria and/or fungi. SARS-CoV-2 was revealed in 90 patients (58.4%, 72 males, mean age 65 years). No significant difference was observed between SARS-CoV-2 positives and SARS-CoV-2 negatives with regard to sex, age and bacterial and/or fungal infections. Nonetheless, fungi were more frequently detected among SARS-CoV-2 positives (44/54, 81.4%, p = 0.0053). Candida albicans was the overall most frequently isolated agent, followed by Enterococcus faecalis among SARS-CoV-2 positives and Staphylococcus aureus among SARS-CoV-2 negatives. Overall mortality rate was 40.4%, accounting for 53 deaths: 37 among SARS-CoV-2 positives (mean age 69 years) and 16 among SARS-CoV-2 negatives (mean age 63 years). This study highlights the different patterns of infectious agents between the two patient categories: fungi were prevalently involved among SARS-CoV-2-positive patients and bacteria among the SARS-CoV-2-negative patients. The different therapies and the length of the ICU stay could have influenced these different patterns of infectious agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Unit of Clinical Virology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.L.D.)
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Monica Martinelli
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.M.); (A.D.M.)
| | - Maria Loretana Dell’Anna
- Unit of Clinical Virology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (S.M.); (M.L.D.)
| | - Alan Di Maio
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.M.); (A.D.M.)
| | - Maria Cristina Arcangeletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Clara Maccari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Flora De Conto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy; (M.B.); (G.P.); (M.C.A.); (C.M.); (F.D.C.); (C.C.)
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9
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Calderaro A, De Conto F, Buttrini M, Piccolo G, Montecchini S, Maccari C, Martinelli M, Di Maio A, Ferraglia F, Pinardi F, Montagna P, Arcangeletti MC, Chezzi C. Human respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, circulating in the winter season 2019-2020 in Parma, Northern Italy. Int J Infect Dis 2020; 102:79-84. [PMID: 33017694 PMCID: PMC7530558 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.09.1473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [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: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of respiratory virus infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), during the winter period December 2019 to March 2020, via a tertiary care hospital-based survey in Parma, Northern Italy. METHODS A total of 906 biological samples from the respiratory tract were analysed by both conventional assays (including culture) and molecular assays targeting nucleic acids of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses. RESULTS Overall, 474 samples (52.3%) were positive for at least one virus, with a total of 583 viruses detected. Single infections were detected in 380 (80.2%) samples and mixed infections were detected in 94 (19.8%). Respiratory syncytial virus (138/583, 23.7%) and rhinovirus (130/583, 22.3%) were the most commonly identified viruses, followed by SARS-CoV-2 (82/583, 14.1%). Respiratory syncytial virus predominated until February, with 129 detections; it then decreased drastically in March to only nine detections. SARS-CoV-2 was absent in the study area until February 26, 2020 and then reached 82 detections in just over a month. SARS-CoV-2 was found in mixed infections in only three cases, all observed in children younger than 1 year old. CONCLUSIONS This study showed a completely different trend between SARS-CoV-2 and the 'common' respiratory viruses: the common viruses mostly affected children, without any distinction according to sex, while SARS-CoV-2 mostly affected adult males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Flora De Conto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Unit of Clinical Virology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Clara Maccari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Monica Martinelli
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Alan Di Maio
- Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Francesca Ferraglia
- Unit of Clinical Virology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Federica Pinardi
- Unit of Clinical Virology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Paolo Montagna
- Unit of Clinical Virology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Carlo Chezzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
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Marono S, Loponte R, Lombardi P, Vassalotti G, Pero ME, Russo F, Gasco L, Parisi G, Piccolo G, Nizza S, Di Meo C, Attia YA, Bovera F. Productive performance and blood profiles of laying hens fed Hermetia illucens larvae meal as total replacement of soybean meal from 24 to 45 weeks of age. Poult Sci 2018; 96:1783-1790. [PMID: 28339710 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pew461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [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: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the research was to study the effects of an insect meal from Hermetia illucens larvae (HILM) as complete replacement of soybean meal (SBM) on productive performance and blood profiles of laying hens, from 24 to 45 wk of age. A total of 108 24-week-old Lohmann Brown Classic laying hens was equally divided into 2 groups (54 hens/group, 9 replicates of 6 hens/group). From 24 to 45 wk of age, the groups were fed 2 different isoproteic and isoenergetic diets: the control group (SBM) was fed a corn-soybean meal based diet, while in the HILM group the soybean meal was completely replaced by Hermetia illucens larvae meal. Feed intake, number of eggs produced, and egg weight were recorded weekly along the trial. At 45 wk of age, blood samples were collected from 2 hens per replicate. The use of HIML led to a more favorable (P < 0.01) feed conversion ratio in hens but lay percentage, feed intake, average egg weight, and egg mass were higher (P < 0.01) in hens fed the SBM diet. Hens fed insect meal produced a higher percentage of eggs from small (S), medium (M), and extra-large (XL) classes (P < 0.01) than SBM, while the SBM group had a higher percentage of eggs from the large (L) class (P < 0.01). The levels of globulin and albumin to globulin ratio were, respectively, higher and lower (P < 0.05) in HILM than the SBM group. Cholesterol and triglycerides were higher (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) in hens from SBM than in the HILM group. Blood levels of Ca were higher (P < 0.01) in hens fed insect meal, while creatinine was higher (P < 0.01) in blood of hens fed SBM. Hermetia illucens larvae meal can be a suitable alternative protein source for laying hens even if the complete replacement of soybean meal needs further investigation to avoid the negative effects on feed intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Marono
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - R Loponte
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - P Lombardi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - G Vassalotti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - M E Pero
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | | | - L Gasco
- Department of Agricultural, Forest, and Food Sciences, University of Torino, largo Braccini, 2, 10095, Grugliasco, Torino, Italy
| | - G Parisi
- Department of Agri-Food Production and Environmental Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, via delle Cascine 5, 50144 Firenze, Italy
| | - G Piccolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - S Nizza
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - C Di Meo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
| | - Y A Attia
- Faculty of Meteorology, Environment, and Arid Land Agriculture, Arid Land Agriculture Department, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - F Bovera
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Napoli, Italy
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11
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Henry MA, Gasco L, Chatzifotis S, Piccolo G. Does dietary insect meal affect the fish immune system? The case of mealworm, Tenebrio molitor on European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax. Dev Comp Immunol 2018; 81:204-209. [PMID: 29229441 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2017.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Feeding small European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax, for 6 weeks with Tenebrio molitor larval meal showed significant anti-inflammatory responses (ceruloplasmin, myeloperoxidase and nitric oxide). Serum bacteriolytic activity against a Gram negative bacterium was not significantly affected by dietary Tenebrio, while both lysozyme antibacterial activity and serum trypsin inhibition usually linked to the anti-parasite activity of the fish, were significantly enhanced. The latter may be due to the similarities in the composition of the exoskeleton of parasites and insects that may therefore act as an immunostimulant potentially increasing the anti-parasitic activity. The addition of exogenous proteases significantly decreased both trypsin-inhibition and serum bacteriolytic activity probably through direct inhibition of the proteins responsible for these immune functions. Further investigation involving bacterial or parasitic challenges will be necessary to assess if the effects of dietary mealworm meal on the immune system observed in the present study are translated into an improved resistance to diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Henry
- Laboratory of Fish Nutrition and Pathology, Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Aghios Kosmas, 16777 Elliniko, Greece.
| | - L Gasco
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco, 10095 Turin, Italy
| | - S Chatzifotis
- Aqualabs, Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, P.O.Box 2214, Iraklion, Crete 71003, Greece
| | - G Piccolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Napoli Federico II, Via F. Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
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12
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Fornasari P, Riva G, Piccolo G, Cosi V, Lombardi M. Short and Long-Term Clinical Effects of Plasma-Exchange in 33 Cases of Myasthenia Gravis. Int J Artif Organs 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/039139888500800310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - G. Riva
- Centro Emotrasfusionale A.V.I.S., Pavia
| | - G. Piccolo
- Istituto Neurologico “C. Mondino”, Clinica Neurologica dell'Università di Pavia
| | - V. Cosi
- Istituto Neurologico “C. Mondino”, Clinica Neurologica dell'Università di Pavia
| | - M. Lombardi
- Istituto Neurologico “C. Mondino”, Clinica Neurologica dell'Università di Pavia
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Calderaro A, Piccolo G, Montecchini S, Buttrini M, Rossi S, Dell'Anna ML, De Remigis V, Arcangeletti MC, Chezzi C, De Conto F. High prevalence of malaria in a non-endemic setting: comparison of diagnostic tools and patient outcome during a four-year survey (2013-2017). Malar J 2018; 17:63. [PMID: 29402283 PMCID: PMC5800101 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2218-4] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria is no longer endemic in Italy since 1970 when the World Health Organization declared Italy malaria-free, but it is now the most commonly imported disease. The aim of the study was to analyse the trend of imported malaria cases in Parma, Italy, during January 2013–June 2017, reporting also the treatment and the outcome of cases, exploring the comparison of the three diagnostic tests used for malaria diagnosis: microscopy, immunochromatographic assay (ICT) (BinaxNOW®) and Real-time PCR assays detecting Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovale curtisi, Plasmodium ovale wallikeri, and Plasmodium knowlesi. Results Of the 288 patients with suspected malaria, 87 were positive by microscopy: 73 P. falciparum, 2 P. vivax, 8 P. ovale, 1 P. vivax/P. ovale, 1 P. malariae and 2 Plasmodium sp. All samples were positive by ICT except 6. Plasmodial DNA was revealed in the 87 cases and in 2 additional cases showing P. falciparum-specific bands by ICT, as follows: 75 P. falciparum, 2 P. vivax, 6 P. ovale curtisi, 3 P. ovale wallikeri, 1 P. malariae, and 2 mixed infections. 72 patients were foreigners and 17 Italians travelling for tourism or business. The majority of these patients presented with fever at blood collection and did not have chemoprophylaxis. No fatal cases were observed and the drug mostly used was quinine observing a negative blood smear or a parasitaemia < 0.001% after 48–72 h’ therapy. Conclusions The study shows an update and a thorough analysis of imported malaria cases in the area of Parma during 4.5 years from the point of view of the total case management, clinical and diagnostic. The prevalence of malaria in such area in the considered period was especially due to immigrants mostly from Africa. Molecular methods were more sensitive and specific than microscopy and ICT, both detecting additional cases of P. falciparum malaria missed by microscopy and correctly identifying the Plasmodium species of medical interest. The data reported in this study may stimulate the clinicians in non-endemic areas to suspect malaria also in cases, where the most typical symptoms are absent, and the parasitologists to confirm the results of microscopy, remaining the reference method, with molecular methods to avoid misdiagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Sabina Rossi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Loretana Dell'Anna
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Valeria De Remigis
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Chezzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Flora De Conto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14, 43126, Parma, Italy
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14
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Calderaro A, Buttrini M, Montecchini S, Rossi S, Piccolo G, Arcangeletti MC, Medici MC, Chezzi C, De Conto F. MALDI-TOF MS as a new tool for the identification of Dientamoeba fragilis. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:11. [PMID: 29301570 PMCID: PMC5755284 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2597-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study for the first time, a Dientamoeba fragilis protein profile by MALDI-TOF MS was created in order to identify specific markers for the application of this technology in the laboratory diagnosis of dientamoebiasis. In particular, one D. fragilis reference strain was used to create a reference spectrum and 14 clinical isolates to verify the reliability of the obtained results. RESULTS While 15 peaks were found to be discriminating between the reference strain and the culture medium used, six peaks, observed in all the 14 strains tested, were considered as markers able to identify D. fragilis. CONCLUSIONS In our hands, MALDI-TOF MS technology was demonstrated as a useful tool to be used in association with or in replacement of the real-time PCR assay for the identification of D. fragilis used in our laboratory on xenic cultures, due to its accuracy, rapidity and low cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sabina Rossi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Carlo Chezzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Flora De Conto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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15
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Cappellani A, Zanghì A, Cardì F, Cavallaro A, Piccolo G, Palmucci S, Fuccio Sanzà G, Di Vita M. Total Thyroidectomy: the first, the best. The recurrent goiter issue. Clin Ter 2017; 168:e194-e198. [PMID: 28612896 DOI: 10.7417/t.2017.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Redo surgery for recurrent goiter is still now, even in experienced hands, followed by higher morbidity than primary total thyroidectomy. Suppressive Levothyroxine therapy failed to improve the recurrence rate, while inducing a subclinical hyperthyroidism. Aim of this study is to verify morbidity after total thyroidectomy for benign thyroid diseases, both primary and after recurrence. MATERIALS AND METHODS A series of 20 cases of total thyroidectomy for recurrent benign diseases (RG), performed between January 2001 and December 2013 was compared with 225 cases of primary total thyroidectomy (PT) . Cancers, even incidentally diagnosed, were excluded. At least a 12 months follow up was accomplished. Due to the small size of the sample for RG, statistical analysis was performed by Fisher test only. RESULTS Postoperative complications were Transient hypocalcemia: 5 (25%) in RG and 18 (8%) in PT, Permanent hypocalcemia only 2 (10%) in RG (significant for p <0,05), Transient RLN deficit 5 (25 %) in RG and 6 (2.6%) in PT (significant for p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Differences in incidence of perioperative complications cannot be advocated to justify a less than total thyroidectomy even in benign disease setting. The need for a redo surgery with its burden of morbidity is per se a good reason to avoid a conservative surgery. Further, suppressive therapy with Levothyroxine often fails to avoid recurrence, inducing in some cases a specific morbidity. Our experience confirms the results of our previous experiences and of literature on this topic: the best management of recurrent goiter is its prevention by primary total thyroidectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cappellani
- Department of Surgery and Medical and Surgical Specialties, General And Breast Surgery Unit, University of Catania
| | - A Zanghì
- Department of Surgery and Medical and Surgical Specialties, General And Breast Surgery Unit, University of Catania
| | - F Cardì
- Department of Surgery and Medical and Surgical Specialties, General And Breast Surgery Unit, University of Catania
| | - A Cavallaro
- Department of Surgery and Medical and Surgical Specialties, General And Breast Surgery Unit, University of Catania
| | - G Piccolo
- Department of Surgery and Medical and Surgical Specialties, General And Breast Surgery Unit, University of Catania
| | - S Palmucci
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Radiology Unit, University of Catania, Italy
| | - G Fuccio Sanzà
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Radiology Unit, University of Catania, Italy
| | - M Di Vita
- Department of Surgery and Medical and Surgical Specialties, General And Breast Surgery Unit, University of Catania
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16
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Gagliardi S, Ricca I, Ferrarini A, Valente M, Grieco G, Piccolo G, Alfonsi E, Delledonne M, Cereda C. Palmoplantar keratoderma and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease: combination of two independent genetic diseases? Identification of two point mutations in the MPZ
and KRT1
genes by whole-exome sequencing. Br J Dermatol 2017; 177:284-286. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Gagliardi
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center; National Neurological Institute C. Mondino; Pavia Italy
| | - I. Ricca
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center; National Neurological Institute C. Mondino; Pavia Italy
| | - A. Ferrarini
- Department of Biotechnologies; University of Verona; Verona Italy
| | - M. Valente
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center; National Neurological Institute C. Mondino; Pavia Italy
| | - G.S. Grieco
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center; National Neurological Institute C. Mondino; Pavia Italy
| | - G. Piccolo
- Consultant Neurologist; National Neurological Institute C. Mondino; Pavia Italy
| | - E. Alfonsi
- Neurophysiology Unit; IRCCS National Neurological Institute “C. Mondino”; Pavia Italy
| | - M. Delledonne
- Department of Biotechnologies; University of Verona; Verona Italy
- Personal Genomics Srl; Verona Italy
| | - C. Cereda
- Genomic and Post-Genomic Center; National Neurological Institute C. Mondino; Pavia Italy
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Piccolo G, Iaconisi V, Marono S, Gasco L, Loponte R, Nizza S, Bovera F, Parisi G. Effect of Tenebrio molitor larvae meal on growth performance, in vivo nutrients digestibility, somatic and marketable indexes of gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata). Anim Feed Sci Technol 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Zanghì A, Piccolo G, Cavallaro A, Pulvirenti E, Lo Menzo E, Cardì F, Di Vita M, Cappellani A. A pilot study about the oncologic safety of colonic self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) in obstructive colon cancer: is occlusion always better than "silent" perforation? Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2016; 20:5242-5248. [PMID: 28051242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the oncologic safety of colonic self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) in obstructive colon cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all the patients who were treated with endoscopic placement of a self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) at our institution. RESULTS A total of 26 patients were identified during the study period, of which 24 patients (92.30%) were treated with SEMS as a bridge-to-surgery and 2 (7.69%) as palliation. In 22 cases (80.76%), the stenosis was localized to the left side. Clinical success with resolution of bowel obstructions was achieved in 22 (84.61%) patients within a short period of time. Among patients treated successfully with SEMS insertion as bridge to surgery (n = 22), 20 (90.9%) underwent one-stage surgery with primary anastomosis while 2 patients (9.09%) underwent colostomy due to intraoperative evidence of a covered perforation by cancer tissue in the pelvis. Patients with subclinical perforation developed an early peritoneal carcinomatosis, 10 patients treated with curative intent subsequently developed liver metastasis after 24 months. CONCLUSIONS We reported an overall poor outcome among patients treated with the insertion of SEMS. This led us to think that, in some cases, occlusion may be better than a "silent" perforation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zanghì
- Department of Surgery, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Bergamaschi R, Tonietti S, Franciotta D, Candeloro E, Tavazzi E, Piccolo G, Romani A, Cosi V. Oligoclonal bands in Devic’s neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis: differences in repeated cerebrospinal fluid examinations. Mult Scler 2016; 10:2-4. [PMID: 14760945 DOI: 10.1191/1352458504ms988oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We studied repeated cerebrospinal fluids of patients with Devic’s neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Variations of oligoclonal bands (OBs) had opposite trends in the two groups. In MS, O Bs were detected in 399 of 411 patients (97%) and never disappeared. In NMO, O Bs were detected in three of 11 patients (27%) and always disappeared. The hypothesis that NMO and MS follow distinct patho genetic pathways is supported by our findings, which can be useful for the differentiatio n of NMO from MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Bergamaschi
- Centre for Multiple Sclerosis, Neurological Institute IRCCS C. Mondino, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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Calderaro A, Piergianni M, Montecchini S, Buttrini M, Piccolo G, Rossi S, Arcangeletti MC, Medici MC, Chezzi C, De Conto F. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry as a potential tool for Trichomonas vaginalis identification. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:261. [PMID: 27282151 PMCID: PMC4901424 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1594-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Trichomonas vaginalis is a flagellated protozoan causing trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted human infection, with around 276.4 million new cases estimated by World Health Organization. Culture is the gold standard method for the diagnosis of T. vaginalis infection. Recently, immunochromatographic assays as well as PCR assays for the detection of T. vaginalis antigen or DNA, respectively, have been also available. Although the well-known genome sequence of T. vaginalis has made possible the application of proteomic studies, few data are available about the overall proteomic expression profiling of T. vaginalis. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential application of MALDI-TOF MS as a new tool for the identification of T. vaginalis. Methods Twenty-one isolates were analysed by MALDI-TOF MS after the creation of a Main Spectrum Profile (MSP) from a T. vaginalis reference strain (G3) and its subsequent supplementation in the Bruker Daltonics database, not including any profile of protozoa. This was achieved after the development of a new identification method created by modifying the range setting (6–10 kDa) for the MALDI-TOF MS analysis in order to exclude the overlapping of peaks derived from the culture media used in this study. Results Two MSP reference spectra were created in 2 different range: 3–15 kDa (standard range setting) and 6–10 kDa (new range setting). Both MSP spectra were deposited in the MALDI BioTyper database for further identification of additional T. vaginalis strains. All the 21 strains analysed in this study were correctly identified by using the new identification method. Conclusions In this study it was demonstrated that changes in the MALDI-TOF MS standard parameters usually used to identify bacteria and fungi allowed the identification of the protozoan T. vaginalis. This study shows the usefulness of MALDI-TOF MS in the reliable identification of microorganism grown on complex liquid media such as the protozoan T. vaginalis, on the basis of the proteic profile and not on the basis of single markers, by using a “new range setting” different from that developed for bacteria and fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy.
| | - Maddalena Piergianni
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Sabina Rossi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Arcangeletti
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Medici
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Flora De Conto
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci, 14-43126, Parma, Italy
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Cortese A, Piccolo G, Lozza A, Schreiber A, Callegari I, Moglia A, Alfonsi E, Pareyson D. Laryngeal and phrenic nerve involvement in a patient with hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP). Neuromuscul Disord 2016; 26:455-8. [PMID: 27241821 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2016.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Lower cranial and phrenic nerve involvement is exceptional in hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP). Here we report the occurrence of reversible laryngeal and phrenic nerve involvement in a patient with HNPP. The patient recalled several episodes of reversible weakness and numbness of his feet and hands since the age of 30 years. His medical history was uneventful, apart from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). At age 44, following severe weight loss, he presented with progressive dysphonia and hoarseness. EMG of cricoarytenoid and thyroarytenoid muscles and laryngeal fibroscopy confirmed vocal cord paralysis. These speech disturbances gradually regressed. Two years later, he reported rapidly worsening dyspnea. Electroneurography showed increased distal latency of the right phrenic nerve and diaphragm ultrasonography documented reduced right hemi-diaphragm excursion. Six months later and after optimization of CODP treatment, his respiratory function had improved and both phrenic nerve conduction and diaphragm excursion were completely restored. We hypothesize that chronic cough and nerve stretching in the context of CODP, together with severe weight loss, may have triggered the nerve paralysis in this patient. Our report highlights the need for optimal management of comorbidities such as CODP as well as careful control of weight in HNPP patients to avoid potentially harmful complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cortese
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy.
| | - G Piccolo
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Lozza
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Schreiber
- Pulmonary Division, S. Maugeri Foundation IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - I Callegari
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; Neuroscience Consortium, Monza Policlinico and Pavia Mondino, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Moglia
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Alfonsi
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - D Pareyson
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, C. Besta Neurological Institute, IRCCS Foundation, Milan, Italy
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Calderaro A, Piergianni M, Piccolo G, Rossi S, Montecchini S, Buttrini M, Arcangeletti MC, Medici MC, Chezzi C, De Conto F. Diagnostic performances of antigen detection compared to conventional and nucleic acid detection of Entamoeba histolytica in a non-endemic setting. New Microbiol 2016; 39:153-155. [PMID: 27196557] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the immunochromatographic (IC) assay "TECHLAB(®) E. HISTOLYTICA QUIK CHEK™" analysing 36 faecal samples and 7 cultured strains. This assay was compared to the methods performed in our laboratory for the diagnosis of amoebiasis. The IC assay revealed a detection limit of 103 trophozoites/g faeces and no cross-reactivity with other parasites and failed to detect E. histolytica antigen in frozen faeces. In our laboratory located in a non-endemic setting this assay could not replace the methods currently used for the diagnosis of amoebiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maddalena Piergianni
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sabina Rossi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Arcangeletti
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Medici
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Flora De Conto
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Cutrignelli M, Piccolo G, D’Urso S, Calabrò S, Bovera F, Tudisco R, Infascelli F. Urinary excretion of purine derivatives in dry buffalo and Fresian cows. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2007.s2.563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Infascelli F, Bovera F, Piccolo G, D’Urso S, Zicarelli F, Cutrignelli M. Gas production and organic matter degradability of diets for buffaloes. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2005.2s.316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Cortese A, Franciotta D, Alfonsi E, Visigalli N, Zardini E, Diamanti L, Prunetti P, Osera C, Gastaldi M, Berzero G, Pichiecchio A, Piccolo G, Lozza A, Piscosquito G, Salsano E, Ceroni M, Moglia A, Bono G, Pareyson D, Marchioni E. Combined central and peripheral demyelination: Clinical features, diagnostic findings, and treatment. J Neurol Sci 2016; 363:182-7. [PMID: 27000248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2016.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Combined central and peripheral demyelination (CCPD) is rare, and current knowledge is based on case reports and small case series. The aim of our study was to describe the clinical features, diagnostic results, treatment and outcomes in a large cohort of patients with CCPD. Thirty-one patients entered this retrospective, observational, two-center study. In 20 patients (65%) CCPD presented, after an infection, as myeloradiculoneuropathy, encephalopathy, cranial neuropathy, length-dependent peripheral neuropathy, or pseudo-Guillain-Barré syndrome. Demyelinating features of peripheral nerve damage fulfilling European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society (EFNS/PNS) electrodiagnostic criteria for CIDP were found in 23 patients (74%), and spatial dissemination of demyelinating lesions on brain MRI fulfilling the 2010 McDonald criteria for multiple sclerosis (MS) in 11 (46%). Two thirds of the patients had a relapsing or progressive disease course, usually related to the appearance of new spinal cord lesions or worsening of the peripheral neuropathy, and showed unsatisfactory responses to high-dose corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins. The clinical presentation of CCPD was severe in 22 patients (71%), who were left significantly disabled. Our data suggest that CCPD has heterogeneous features and shows frequent post-infectious onset, primary peripheral nervous system or central nervous system involvement, a monophasic or chronic disease course, inadequate response to treatments, and a generally poor outcome. We therefore conclude that the current diagnostic criteria for MS and CIDP may not fully encompass the spectrum of possible manifestations of CCPD, whose pathogenesis remains largely unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cortese
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy.
| | - D Franciotta
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Alfonsi
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - N Visigalli
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - E Zardini
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - L Diamanti
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; Neuroscience Consortium, University of Pavia, Monza Policlinico and Pavia Mondino, Italy
| | - P Prunetti
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; Neuroscience Consortium, University of Pavia, Monza Policlinico and Pavia Mondino, Italy
| | - C Osera
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Gastaldi
- Neuroscience Consortium, University of Pavia, Monza Policlinico and Pavia Mondino, Italy; Ospedale di Circolo/Fondazione Macchi, Department of Neurology and Stroke Unit, Varese, Italy
| | - G Berzero
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; Neuroscience Consortium, University of Pavia, Monza Policlinico and Pavia Mondino, Italy
| | - A Pichiecchio
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - G Piccolo
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Lozza
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - G Piscosquito
- Clinic of Central and Peripheral Degenerative Neuropathies Unit, IRCCS Foundation, C. Besta Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - E Salsano
- Clinic of Central and Peripheral Degenerative Neuropathies Unit, IRCCS Foundation, C. Besta Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - M Ceroni
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - A Moglia
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy; University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - G Bono
- Ospedale di Circolo/Fondazione Macchi, Department of Neurology and Stroke Unit, Varese, Italy; University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - D Pareyson
- Clinic of Central and Peripheral Degenerative Neuropathies Unit, IRCCS Foundation, C. Besta Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - E Marchioni
- C. Mondino National Neurological Institute, Pavia, Italy
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Bovera F, Loponte R, Marono S, Piccolo G, Parisi G, Iaconisi V, Gasco L, Nizza A. Use of larvae meal as protein source in broiler diet: Effect on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and carcass and meat traits. J Anim Sci 2016; 94:639-47. [PMID: 27065134 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2015-9201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this research was to study the effect of insect meal from larvae ( larvae meal [TML]) as complete replacement of soybean meal (SBM) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and carcass and meat traits of broilers. A total of eighty 30-d-old male Shaver brown broilers were homogenously divided into 2 groups (each consisting of 8 replicates of 5 birds). Up to 62 d of age, the groups were fed 2 isoproteic and isoenergetic diets differing for the ingredient used as the main protein source: the control group was fed a corn-SBM-based diet, whereas in the TML group, the SBM was completely replaced by TML. Broiler growth performance was measured during the trial. At 62 d of age, 2 broilers per replicate (16 per group) were slaughtered and apparent ileal digestibility coefficients and carcass and meat traits were determined. The use of TML as the main protein source in the broiler diet had no significant effect on most growth performance and carcass traits and chemical and physical properties of meat, the latter being important for marketing purposes. The feed conversion ratio in the entire experimental period (from 30 to 62 d) was improved in the TML group compared with the SBM group ( < 0.05). The apparent ileal digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, and CP in broilers fed the SBM diet were greater ( < 0.01) than the other group. The full digestive system in broilers fed SBM had a lower ( < 0.05) absolute and relative weight than that of broilers fed TML. Also, the weight and the percentage of the spleen in the SBM group were lower ( < 0.05) than those in the TML group. The length of the entire intestine in the group fed TML was greater ( < 0.05) than the other group and the same happened when intestinal length was expressed as percentage of broiler BW ( < 0.05). Among the different intestinal tracts, the ileum and ceca of broilers fed TML had a greater ( < 0.05) length than that of broilers fed SBM. Also, ceca weight (as an absolute value or percentage on live weight) in broilers fed TML was greater ( < 0.05) than that of broilers fed SBM. Breast pH and cooking losses in broilers fed TML were greater ( < 0.05) than those of broilers fed SBM. Chemical characteristic of meat obtained from right breast of slaughtered broilers were unaffected by dietary treatments. larvae meal can be a suitable alternative protein source for growing broilers and also when used as principal protein contributor to the diet.
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Bovera F, Piccolo G, Gasco L, Marono S, Loponte R, Vassalotti G, Mastellone V, Lombardi P, Attia YA, Nizza A. Yellow mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor, L.) as a possible alternative to soybean meal in broiler diets. Br Poult Sci 2015; 56:569-75. [PMID: 26247227 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2015.1080815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of replacing soybean meal (SBM) with Tenebrio molitor larvae (TML) meal in broiler diets. A total of 80 30-d-old male Shaver brown broilers were divided into two groups fed on two isoproteic and isoenergetic diets differing for protein source (SBM vs. TML). Up to 62 d of age, body weight and feed intake were recorded weekly and body weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER) and European efficiency factor (EEF) were calculated. At 62 d, blood samples were collected from 16 birds/group for evaluation of blood profiles. Feed intake was not different between groups considering the entire period of the trial. The FCR was more favourable in the TML than SBM group from 46 d of age and in the entire period of the trial (4.13 vs. 3.62). The PER was higher in the SBM than in the TML group (1.92 vs. 1.37) while the EEF was higher in broilers fed on the TML diet (132.6 vs. 156.2). Albumin-to-globulin ratio was higher in broilers fed on SBM than in the other group (0.44 vs. 0.30). aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were higher in TML than SBM (195.1 vs. 178.6 U/l and 82.07 vs. 46.71 U/l, respectively). Uric acid was higher in broilers fed on SBM than TML (5.40 vs. 4.16 mg/dl). TML did not affect feed intake and growth rate of broilers from 30 to 62 d of age when compared to an isoproteic and isoenergetic SBM diet, but FCR of the TML group was more favourable than that of the SBM group. The lowest albumin-to-globulin ratio in broilers fed on TML suggests a higher immune response, probably due to the prebiotic effects of chitin.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Bovera
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
| | - G Piccolo
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
| | - L Gasco
- b Department of Agricultural, Forest, and Food Sciences , University of Torino , Grugliasco , Italy
| | - S Marono
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
| | - R Loponte
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
| | - G Vassalotti
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
| | - V Mastellone
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
| | - P Lombardi
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
| | - Y A Attia
- c Faculty of Meteorology, Environment and Arid Land Agriculture, Arid Land Agriculture Department , King Abdulaziz University , Jeddah , Saudi Arabia
| | - A Nizza
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science , University of Napoli Federico II , Napoli , Italy
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Calderaro A, Piergianni M, Buttrini M, Montecchini S, Piccolo G, Gorrini C, Rossi S, Chezzi C, Arcangeletti MC, Medici MC, De Conto F. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for the detection and differentiation of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122448. [PMID: 25874612 PMCID: PMC4398369 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Detection of Entamoeba histolytica and its differentiation from Entamoeba dispar is an important goal of the clinical parasitology laboratory. The aim of this study was the identification and differentiation of E. histolytica and E. dispar by MALDI-TOF MS, in order to evaluate the application of this technique in routine diagnostic practice. MALDI-TOF MS was applied to 3 amebic reference strains and to 14 strains isolated from feces that had been differentiated by molecular methods in our laboratory. Protein extracts from cultures of these strains (axenic cultures for the 3 reference strains and monoxenic cultures for the 14 field isolates) were analyzed by MALDI-TOF MS and the spectra obtained were analyzed by statistical software. Five peaks discriminating between E. histolytica and E. dispar reference strains were found by protein profile analysis: 2 peaks (8,246 and 8,303 Da) specific for E. histolytica and 3 (4,714; 5,541; 8,207 Da) for E. dispar. All clinical isolates except one showed the discriminating peaks expected for the appropriate species. For 2 fecal samples from which 2 strains (1 E. histolytica and 1 E. dispar) out of the 14 included in this study were isolated, the same discriminating peaks found in the corresponding isolated amebic strains were detected after only 12h (E. histolytica) and 24h (E. dispar) of incubation of the fecal samples in Robinson’s medium without serum. Our study shows that MALDI-TOF MS can be used to discriminate between E. histolytica and E. dispar using in vitro xenic cultures and it also could have potential for the detection of these species in clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Maddalena Piergianni
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Chiara Gorrini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sabina Rossi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Arcangeletti
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Medici
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Flora De Conto
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Piccolo G, Di Vita M, Cavallaro A, Fisichella R, Zanghì A, Spartà D, Cardì F, Cappellani A. Lymph node evaluation in gallbladder cancer: which role in the prognostic and therapeutic aspects. Update of the literature. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2014; 18:47-53. [PMID: 25535192] [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: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The widespread use of laparoscopy has changed the outcome of gallbladder cancer as a consequence of increasing referral and incidental discovering of earlier stages cancer. Nevertheless, GBC is still associated with a poor prognosis and lymphnodal involvement is a main prognostic factor, important both for staging and for evaluating surgery quality. No consensus exists about the extension of lymphadenectomy to be performed nor about contraindications to extensive resection. A review of literature was so designed to identify the actual role, extension and limits of lymphadenectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS A search on Pubmed and Scopus has been performed using the following keywords: gallbladder cancer, gallbladder neoplasm, surgery, laparoscopy, lymphadenectomy to evaluate the prognostic and the therapeutic role of the lymphadenectomy in gallbladder cancer. The retrieved articles were analyzed aimed to evaluate the impact of lymphectomy and of its extension on overall and disease free survival. RESULTS Although no consensus still exists over the extension of ideal lymphadenectomy, some points are already clearly established: a part from T1a neoplasms, that do not require further surgery, and T1b for which a regional lymphectomy (N1) is safe and mandatory, more advanced stages require a more aggressive surgery but the fate of paraortic nodal station is still under evaluation. In fact some Authors still believe that the involvement of these nodes determine a so poor prognosis to make uselessly risky their surgical aggression. Other Authors conversely, show that there is not any difference in survival, among node positive patients, between paraortic node positive and no paraortic node positive patients. CONCLUSIONS The prognosis of gallbladder cancer remains poor because in most patients the diagnosis is made at an advanced stage. Complete surgical resection provides the only curative treatment option in this disease. In order to improve long-term outcome, several surgeons have advocated aggressive surgical resection, including major hepatectomy, pancreatoduodenectomy and extended lymphadenectomy. Even a para-aortic nodal disease shouldn't discourage from pursuing this objective.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Piccolo
- Department of Surgery, University of Catania, Italy.
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Zanghì A, Cavallaro A, Di Mattia P, Di Vita M, Cardì F, Piccolo G, Barbera G, Fisichella R, Spartà D, Cappellani A. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: ultrasonic energy versus monopolar electrosurgical energy. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2014; 18:54-59. [PMID: 25535193] [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: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nowadays, laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is undoubtedly considered the "gold standard" in the surgical treatment of symptomatic gallstones, gallbladder adenomas and acute cholecystitis. Among the alternative energy sources proposed (monopolar, bipolar electric scalpel, radiofrequency sealers) with the aim to dissect and/or seal, the ultrasonic energy has been frequently adopted, however without a widespread acceptance among surgeons for routine or emergency laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This study investigates the possible beneficial aspects of ultrasonic dissection and its efficacy in the closure of the cystic artery and duct. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients were retrospectively divided into 2 groups according to the instruments used for division of the cystic artery and duct as well as for dissection of the liver bed: 121 patients in whom dissection and coagulation were performed using monopolar coagulation and 43 patients who were all treated with the ultrasonically activated scalpel harmonic ACE (Ethicon Endo-Surgery) as the sole instrument used in the whole procedure. RESULTS The mean operative time, was significantly shorter in the harmonic group than in the traditional group (35.36 + 10.15 min vs. 55.6+12.10 vs. respectively; p < 0.0001). The rate of gallbladder perforation was significantly higher in the traditional group than in the harmonic group 20.66% (25 patients) vs. 6.98% (3 patients), respectively; p < 0.05). Intraoperative volume blood loss was significantly more in the traditional group than in the HS group (29.32+14.21 vs. 12.41+8.22; p < 0.0001). The mean amount of postoperative drainage was not significantly different among the two group (18.41+6.54 vs. 15.96+8.69 ml, p > 0.05). No considerable visceral injury has been recorded in either group. The postoperative parameters observed included postoperative hospital stay and morbidity for each group. The hospital stay was not significantly shorter in harmonic group (48.15+4.29 vs. 49.06+2.94 h, p > 0.05). The overall morbidity rate was 14.02 % (not significant). CONCLUSIONS The use of the harmonic scalpel shows some statistically significant advantages limited to a few intraoperative parameters. We conclude that a wider use of harmonic scalpel not offers such advantages to make it the reference technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zanghì
- Department of Surgery, University of Catania A.O.U. "Policlinico - Vittorio Emanuele", Catania, Italy
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Bovera F, Nizza S, Attia YA, Di Meo C, Piccolo G, Nizza A. Prediction of digestible energy and gross energy digestibility of feeds and diets in ostriches. Br Poult Sci 2014; 55:518-23. [PMID: 24945235 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2014.935702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
1. The aim of this study was to assess regression equations able to predict the digestible energy (DE) and gross energy digestibility (GEd) of feed ingredients and diets for ostriches. 2. Results of chemical-nutritional characteristics from 17 ingredients (two varieties of maize, two barleys, oat, triticale, wheat bran, soybean meal, sunflower meal, beet pulp, maize silage, alfalfa hay, 4 alfalfa meals and lupin) and 12 experimental diets were used in a stepwise procedure. 3. Acid detergent lignin (ADL) was the first independent variable included in the model to predict the DE of all the samples (R(2) = 0.65 and Residual Standard Deviation (RSD) 1.02). When the concentration of ash, acid detergent fibre (ADF) and crude fibre were included in the model, the R(2) value of the regression equation increased (from 0.65 to 0.85) and RSD decreased (from 1.02 to 0.48). 4. The ADL concentration was also the first independent variable chosen by the stepwise regression analysis for the estimation of GEd from chemical-nutritional characteristics of feeds, explaining 57% of the total GEd variation. The concentrations of crude protein and ADF included at the second and third steps in the model increased the R(2) (up to 0.70 and 0.73, respectively) and decreased the RSD values (from 0.29 to 0.21 and 0.20, respectively). When other variables as crude fibre, ash and gross energy were included in the model, the coefficient of determination and the RSD strongly improved (0.85 and 0.12, respectively).
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Affiliation(s)
- F Bovera
- a Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Napoli Federico II , 80137 Napoli , Italy
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Calderaro A, Piccolo G, Gorrini C, Montecchini S, Buttrini M, Rossi S, Piergianni M, De Conto F, Arcangeletti MC, Chezzi C, Medici MC. Leptospira species and serovars identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry after database implementation. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:330. [PMID: 24890024 PMCID: PMC4048046 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 05/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Leptospirosis, a spirochaetal zoonotic disease of worldwide distribution, endemic in Europe, has been recognized as an important emerging infectious disease, though yet it is mostly a neglected disease which imparts its greatest burden on impoverished populations from developing countries. Leptospirosis is caused by the infection with any of the more than 230 serovars of pathogenic Leptospira sp. In this study we aimed to implement the MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS) database currently available in our laboratory with Leptospira reference pathogenic (L. interrogans, L. borgpetersenii, L. kirschneri, L. noguchii), intermediate (L. fainei) and saprophytic (L. biflexa) strains of our collection in order to evaluate its possible application to the diagnosis of leptospirosis and to the typing of strains. This was done with the goal of understanding whether this methodology could be used as a tool for the identification of Leptospira strains, not only at species level for diagnostic purposes, but also at serovar level for epidemiological purposes, overcoming the limits of serological and molecular conventional methods. Twenty Leptospira reference strains were analysed by MALDI-TOF MS. Statistical analysis of the protein spectra was performed by ClinProTools software. Results The spectra obtained by the analysis of the reference strains tested were grouped into 6 main classes corresponding to the species analysed, highlighting species-specific protein profiles. Moreover, the statistical analysis of the spectra identified discriminatory peaks to recognize Leptospira strains also at serovar level extending previously published data. Conclusions In conclusion, we confirmed that MALDI-TOF MS could be a powerful tool for research and diagnostic in the field of leptospirosis with broad applications ranging from the detection and identification of pathogenic leptospires for diagnostic purposes to the typing of pathogenic and non-pathogenic leptospires for epidemiological purposes in order to enrich our knowledge about the epidemiology of the infection in different areas and generate control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, Viale A, Gramsci, 14-43126 Parma, Italy.
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Calderaro A, Gorrini C, Piccolo G, Montecchini S, Buttrini M, Rossi S, Piergianni M, Arcangeletti MC, De Conto F, Chezzi C, Medici MC. Identification of Borrelia species after creation of an in-house MALDI-TOF MS database. PLoS One 2014; 9:e88895. [PMID: 24533160 PMCID: PMC3923052 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0088895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Lyme borreliosis (LB) is a multisystemic disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (sl) complex transmitted to humans by Ixodes ticks. B. burgdorferi sl complex, currently comprising at least 19 genospecies, includes the main pathogenic species responsible for human disease in Europe: B. burgdorferi sensu stricto (ss), B. afzelii, and B. garinii. In this study, for the first time, MALDI-TOF MS was applied to Borrelia spp., supplementing the existing database, limited to the species B. burgdorferi ss, B.spielmanii and B. garinii, with the species B. afzelii, in order to enable the identification of all the species potentially implicated in LB in Europe. Moreover, we supplemented the database also with B. hermsii, which is the primary cause of tick-borne relapsing fever in western North America, B. japonica, circulating in Asia, and another reference strain of B. burgdorferi ss (B31 strain). The dendrogram obtained by analyzing the protein profiles of the different Borrelia species reflected Borrelia taxonomy, showing that all the species included in the Borrelia sl complex clustered in a unique branch, while Borrelia hermsii clustered separately. In conclusion, in this study MALDI-TOF MS proved a useful tool suitable for identification of Borrelia spp. both for diagnostic purpose and epidemiological surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Chiara Gorrini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giovanna Piccolo
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Montecchini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Mirko Buttrini
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Sabina Rossi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maddalena Piergianni
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Arcangeletti
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Flora De Conto
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Chezzi
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Medici
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Mantovani M, Longhi E, Frison S, Lazzari R, Espadas De Arias A, Piccolo G, Poli F. Description of two new HLA-C alleles: C*08:63 and C*14:44. Int J Immunogenet 2014; 41:90-1. [DOI: 10.1111/iji.12057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Revised: 02/22/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. Mantovani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa; Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milano Italia
| | - E. Longhi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa; Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milano Italia
| | - S. Frison
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa; Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milano Italia
| | - R. Lazzari
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa; Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milano Italia
| | - A. Espadas De Arias
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa; Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milano Italia
| | - G. Piccolo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa; Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milano Italia
| | - F. Poli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa; Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti; Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milano Italia
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Longhi E, Crivello P, Mantovani M, Frison S, Fleischhauer K, Crespiatico L, Piccolo G, Poli F. Molecular modelling of HLA-B*35:132. Int J Immunogenet 2014; 41:195-7. [PMID: 24401193 DOI: 10.1111/iji.12105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2012] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Here we describe the molecular modelling of the new variant HLA-B*35:132. This allele shows one mismatch with B*35:01:01:01 in exon 3 at position 575 where a T is substituted by a C, which implies an amino acidic change from Leucine to Proline. This seems not to alter the molecular structure and not to compromise the HLA complex and T-cell receptor interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Longhi
- Organ and Tissue Transplantation Immunology, Regenerative Medicine Department, Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Calderaro A, Piccolo G, Gorrini C, Rossi S, Montecchini S, Dell'Anna ML, De Conto F, Medici MC, Chezzi C, Arcangeletti MC. Accurate identification of the six human Plasmodium spp. causing imported malaria, including Plasmodium ovale wallikeri and Plasmodium knowlesi. Malar J 2013; 12:321. [PMID: 24034175 PMCID: PMC3847200 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-12-321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Accurate identification of Plasmodium infections in non-endemic countries is of critical importance with regard to the administration of a targeted therapy having a positive impact on patient health and management and allowing the prevention of the risk of re-introduction of endemic malaria in such countries. Malaria is no longer endemic in Italy where it is the most commonly imported disease, with one of the highest rates of imported malaria among European non-endemic countries including France, the UK and Germany, and with a prevalence of 24.3% at the University Hospital of Parma. Molecular methods showed high sensitivity and specificity and changed the epidemiology of imported malaria in several non-endemic countries, highlighted a higher prevalence of Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium malariae underestimated by microscopy and, not least, brought to light both the existence of two species of P. ovale (Plasmodium ovale curtisi and Plasmodium ovale wallikeri) and the infection in humans by Plasmodium knowlesi, otherwise not detectable by microscopy. Methods In this retrospective study an evaluation of two real-time PCR assays able to identify P. ovale wallikeri, distinguishing it from P. ovale curtisi, and to detect P. knowlesi, respectively, was performed applying them on a subset of 398 blood samples belonging to patients with the clinical suspicion of malaria. Results These assays revealed an excellent analytical sensitivity and no cross-reactivity versus other Plasmodium spp. infecting humans, suggesting their usefulness for an accurate and complete diagnosis of imported malaria. Among the 128 patients with malaria, eight P. ovale curtisi and four P. ovale wallikeri infections were detected, while no cases of P. knowlesi infection were observed. Discussion and conclusions Real-time PCR assays specific for P. ovale wallikeri and P. knowlesi were included in the panel currently used in the University Hospital of Parma for the diagnosis of imported malaria, accomplishing the goal of adhering to the recommendations of the World Health Organization to countries that are malaria-free to include the improvement of the early diagnosis of all cases of imported malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Unit of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Viale A, Gramsci 14, Parma, Italy.
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Zanghì A, Cavallaro A, Piccolo G, Fisichella R, Di Vita M, Spartà D, Zanghì G, Berretta S, Palermo F, Cappellani A. Dissemination metastasis after laparoscopic colorectal surgery versus conventional open surgery for colorectal cancer: a metanalysis. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2013; 17:1174-1184. [PMID: 23690186] [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: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate and compare the risk of dissemination metastasis (wound, port-side metastases and peritoneal seeding) after laparoscopic colorectal surgery and conventional open surgery for colorectal cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS The Authors searched relevant randomized controlled trials between January 1998 and July 2012. RESULTS Wound, port-site metastases and peritoneal seeding were rare and no significant differences occurred between the two groups. The port-site and extraction site recurrence were likely to be the results of suboptimal surgical techniques and occurred in the early phase of the learning curve. The authors also found no significant differences in overall, local and distant recurrences. No significant differences between laparoscopic and open surgery were found in cancer-related mortality during the follow up period of the study (7 RCTs, 3525 patients, 12.8% vs. 14.00%; OR (fixed) 0.83, 95% CI 0.68-1.02), with no significant heterogeneity (p = 0.35). CONCLUSIONS The literature supports the implementation of laparoscopic surgery into daily practice. Laparoscopic surgery can be used for safe and radical resection of cancer in the right, left, sigmoid colon and rectum. However further studies should address whether laparoscopic surgery is superior to open surgery in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zanghì
- Department of Surgery, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Frison S, Longhi E, Mantovani M, Malagoli A, De Giuli A, Piccolo G, Poli F. Two novel alleles at HLA-B locus identified in two volunteer bone marrow donors by sequence-based typing. Int J Immunogenet 2012; 40:328-30. [DOI: 10.1111/iji.12011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Frison
- Organ and Tissue Transplantation Immunology, Regenerative Medicine Department; Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milan; Italy
| | - E. Longhi
- Organ and Tissue Transplantation Immunology, Regenerative Medicine Department; Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milan; Italy
| | - M. Mantovani
- Organ and Tissue Transplantation Immunology, Regenerative Medicine Department; Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milan; Italy
| | - A. Malagoli
- Servizio di Immunologia Clinica e Allergologia; Spedali Civili di Brescia; Brescia; Italy
| | - A. De Giuli
- Servizio di Immunologia Trasfusionale; Ospedale Maggiore di Lodi; Lodi; Italy
| | - G. Piccolo
- Organ and Tissue Transplantation Immunology, Regenerative Medicine Department; Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milan; Italy
| | - F. Poli
- Organ and Tissue Transplantation Immunology, Regenerative Medicine Department; Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico; Milan; Italy
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Calderaro A, Piccolo G, Gorrini C, Montecchini S, Rossi S, Medici MC, Chezzi C, Snounou G. A new real-time PCR for the detection of Plasmodium ovale wallikeri. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48033. [PMID: 23110165 PMCID: PMC3480495 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been proposed that ovale malaria in humans is caused by two closely related but distinct species of malaria parasites: P. ovale curtisi and P. ovale wallikeri. We have extended and optimized a Real-time PCR assay targeting the parasite’s small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssrRNA) gene to detect both these species. When the assay was applied to 31 archival blood samples from patients diagnosed with P. ovale, it was found that the infection in 20 was due to P. ovale curtisi and in the remaining 11 to P. ovale wallikeri. Thus, this assay provides a useful tool that can be applied to epidemiological investigations of the two newly recognized distinct P. ovale species, that might reveal if these species also differ in their clinical manifestation, drugs susceptibility and relapse periodicity. The results presented confirm that P. ovale wallikeri is not confined to Southeast Asia, since the majority of the patients analyzed in this study had acquired their P. ovale infection in African countries, mostly situated in West Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Section of Microbiology, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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Cappellani A, Cacopardo B, Fiorica F, Piccolo G. Cancer in HIV-infected and in older patients. Is there a common risk factor? Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2012; 16:1311-1312. [PMID: 23047521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
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Mantovani M, Frison S, Longhi E, Tagliaferri C, Mantia M, Piccolo G, Poli F. Identification of two novel HLA-A alleles: A*24:199 and A*02:324. Int J Immunogenet 2012; 40:151-3. [PMID: 22831851 DOI: 10.1111/j.1744-313x.2012.01144.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Revised: 06/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Here, we describe two new HLA-A alleles: A*24:199 and A*02:324. The two new variants are attributed to a single nucleotide mutation namely A→C for A*24:199 and G→A for A*02:324. Both point mutations are responsible for a change in translated amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mantovani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Rigenerativa, Immunologia dei Trapianti di Organi e Tessuti, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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Cappellani A, Cavallaro A, Di Vita M, Zanghi A, Piccolo G, Lo Menzo E, Cavallaro V, Malaguarnera M, Giaquinta A, Veroux M, Cimino L, Berretta M. Diet and pancreatic cancer: many questions with few certainties. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2012; 16:192-206. [PMID: 22428470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED BACKGROUND, OBJECTIVES: Pancreatic cancer ranks fourth for cancer mortality for men and women in the United States. This is a particularly devastating cancer since the case-fatality proportion approaches 90% within 12 months following diagnosis. Therefore, understanding the etiology and identifying the risk factors are essential for the primary prevention of this deadly disease. Of the few potentially modifiable risk factors that have been identified, cigarette smoking, history of diabetes mellitus, and obesity seem to be among the most consistent, but the effect of dietary factors is still unclear. The aim of our study is to review of the literature examining the potential role of carbohydrates, fatty acids, meat, fruit and vegetables, alcohol. DISCUSSION Although large prospective cohort studies with questionnaire based analyses will continue to have much to offer in defining predisposing factors for difficult diseases, such as pancreatic cancer, unfortunately dietary questionnaires do not reflect the bioavailability of the nutrients from various foods, the level of absorption from the digestive tract, or individual differences in metabolism. CONCLUSIONS Greater use of participant-derived biological samples, banked plasma, germline DNA, and tumour tissue samples may help to the understanding of pancreatic cancer pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cappellani
- Department of Surgery, General Surgery and Breast Unit, University of Catania, Italy.
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Zanghì A, Di Vita M, Lo Menzo E, Fiorica F, Cavallaro A, Cimino L, Piccolo G, Palmucci S, Cappellani A. Adrenal pseudocyst as a cause of postpartum abdominal pain. Clin Ter 2012; 163:e331-e335. [PMID: 23099983] [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: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Among adrenal masses only 0.06% to 0.18% are cysts and among them, pseudocysts are the second (39%) most common lesions. Due to the increased use of imaging studies their incidence seems to have increased. Most of these lesions are incidentally found during radiologic investigation or at the time of autopsy, and only rarely they are detected in pregnant women. The latter scenario warrants emergency surgery, due to the risk of rupture. We present a case of a 39-years old woman presenting with unrelenting left flank pain due to a large adrenal pseudocyst soon after her first delivery. Four months after, she presented to our surgical division for persistent pain and anemia so underwent an extensive work up that showed a large pseudocystic mass (8 x 8 cm ) of the left adrenal gland. Once the neoplastic and parasitic etiology of the lesion were excluded, she underwent uneventful laparoscopic adrenalectomy. She was discharged home three days postoperatively. This case is the 13th case in the English literature and at the same time is the first case of adrenal pseudocyst occurred four months after delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zanghì
- Department of Surgery, Section of Endocrinology, Andrology and Internal Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Pichiecchio A, Tavazzi E, Poloni G, Ponzio M, Palesi F, Pasin M, Piccolo L, Tosello D, Romani A, Bergamaschi R, Piccolo G, Bastianello S. Advanced magnetic resonance imaging of neuromyelitis optica: a multiparametric approach. Mult Scler 2011; 18:817-24. [PMID: 22183930 DOI: 10.1177/1352458511431072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several authors have used advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to investigate whether patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) have occult damage in normal-appearing brain tissue, similarly to multiple sclerosis (MS). To date, the literature contains no data derived from the combined use of several advanced MRI techniques in the same NMO subjects. OBJECTIVE We set out to determine whether occult damage could be detected in the normal-appearing brain tissue of a small group of patients with NMO using a multiparametric MRI approach. METHODS Eight female patients affected by NMO (age range 44-58 years) and seven sex- and age-matched healthy controls were included. The techniques used on a 1.5 T MRI imaging scanner were magnetization transfer imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, tract-based spatial statistics, spectroscopy and voxel-based morphometry in order to analyse normal-appearing white matter and normal-appearing grey matter. RESULTS Structural and metabolic parameters showed no abnormalities in normal-appearing white matter of patients with NMO. Conversely, tract-based spatial statistics demonstrated a selective alteration of the optic pathways and the lateral geniculate nuclei. Diffusion tensor imaging values in the normal-appearing grey matter were found to be significantly different in the patients with NMO versus the healthy controls. Moreover, voxel-based morphometry analysis demonstrated a significant density and volume reduction of the sensorimotor cortex and the visual cortex. CONCLUSIONS Our data disclosed occult structural damage in the brain of patients with NMO, predominantly involving regions connected with motor and visual systems. This damage seems to be the direct consequence of transsynaptic degeneration triggered by lesions of the optic nerve and spine.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Pichiecchio
- Neuroradiology Department, IRCCS National Neurological Institute IRCCS C Mondino, Pavia, Italy.
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Calabrò S, Guglielmelli A, Iannaccone F, Danieli PP, Tudisco R, Ruggiero C, Piccolo G, Cutrignelli MI, Infascelli F. Fermentation kinetics of sainfoin hay with and without PEG. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2011; 96:842-9. [PMID: 22168179 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0396.2011.01260.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The in vitro gas production technique was applied to evaluate the biological activity of tannins in sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) hay cut at four progressive phenological stages. The buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) rumen fluid was used as inoculum, polyethylene glycol (PEG) was added as specific binding agent and an alfalfa hay (AH) was used as control. All samples were analysed for chemical composition and condensed tannin (CTs). According to the phenological stage of sainfoin, crude protein gradually decreased [from 219 to 122 g/kg dry matter (DM)] and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) increased (from 391 to 514 g/kg DM). Condensed tannins showed the highest value at the first phenological stage [31.5 mg catechin equivalents (CE)/g DM], and their level significantly decreased at the subsequent growth stages. Gas production and fermentation rate were significantly affected by substrate type and PEG addition. The first stage of sainfoin showed the lowest value of gas and volatile fatty acids production and the slowest fermentation kinetics compared with the other samples, when incubated without PEG, because of the CTs effect. The incubation with PEG improved the fermentation process of the first stage of sainfoin, but no effect was registered on AH, where CTs were not detected. Among the sainfoin samples, the slowest kinetics with PEG was observed in the hay harvested at the fourth stage, probably due to its chemical composition. The use of PEG allowed to verify the effect of tannins on the in vitro fermentation characteristics of sainfoin hay.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Calabrò
- Department of Animal Science and Food Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy.
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Costa AN, Capobianchi MR, Ippolito G, Palù G, Barzon L, Piccolo G, Andreetta B, Filippetti M, Fehily D, Lombardini L, Grossi P. West Nile virus: the Italian national transplant network reaction to an alert in the north-eastern region, Italy 2011. Euro Surveill 2011; 16:19991. [PMID: 22008198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
We report four cases of West Nile virus (WNV) transmission following a single multiorgan donation in north-eastern Italy. The transmissions were promptly detected by local transplant centres. The donor had been tested for WNV by nucleic acid amplification test (NAT) prior to transplantation and was negative. There were no detected errors in the nationally implemented WNV safety protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nanni Costa
- National Transplant Centre, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy.
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Nanni Costa A, Capobianchi MR, Ippolito G, Palù G, Barzon L, Piccolo G, Andreetta B, Filippetti M, Fehily D, Lombardini L, Grossi P. West Nile virus: the Italian national transplant network reaction to an alert in the north-eastern region, Italy 2011. Euro Surveill 2011. [DOI: 10.2807/ese.16.41.19991-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We report four cases of West Nile virus (WNV) transmission following a single multiorgan donation in north-eastern Italy. The transmissions were promptly detected by local transplant centres. The donor had been tested for WNV by nucleic acid amplification test (NAT) prior to transplantation and was negative. There were no detected errors in the nationally implemented WNV safety protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nanni Costa
- National Transplant Centre, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - M R Capobianchi
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases (INMI) “L. Spallanzani”, Rome, Italy
| | - G Ippolito
- National Institute for Infectious Diseases (INMI) “L. Spallanzani”, Rome, Italy
| | - G Palù
- Regional Reference Centre for Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Virology Unit, University Hospital, Padova, Italy
- Department of Histology, Microbiology and Medical Biotechnology, University of Padova, Italy
| | - L Barzon
- Department of Histology, Microbiology and Medical Biotechnology, University of Padova, Italy
- Regional Reference Centre for Infectious Diseases, Microbiology and Virology Unit, University Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - G Piccolo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - B Andreetta
- North Italy Transplant Interregional Coordinating Transplant Centre, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - M Filippetti
- National Transplant Centre, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - D Fehily
- National Transplant Centre, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - L Lombardini
- National Transplant Centre, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - P Grossi
- Veneto Regional Coordinating Transplant Centre, Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova, Padua, Italy
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Calderaro A, Montecchini S, Gorrini C, Piccolo G, Chezzi C, Dettori G. Presence of anti-Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato DNA in samples of subjects in an area of the Northern Italy in the period 2002-2008. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2011; 70:455-60. [PMID: 21397424 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2010.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 06/28/2010] [Revised: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 09/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Lyme borreliosis (LB) is a multisystemic disease caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex transmitted to humans by Ixodes ticks and whose epidemiology is poorly investigated in Europe. In this study an epidemiologic survey on the prevalence of the causative agent of such infectious disease was performed in the area of Parma (Northern Italy) during 2002-2008. Serum samples belonging to 2336 patients and cerebrospinal fluid samples (belonging to 42 of the same patients) were analyzed for serologic diagnosis of LB. Direct laboratory assays [polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and cultivation] were performed on samples belonging to patients with the clinical suspicion of LB. The seroprevalence was 0.55% considering the subjects with both anti-B. burgdorferi IgG and IgM. The samples tested by culture and PCR were all negative except for a tick removed from the skin of a healthy man. The results suggest that infection by B. burgdorferi in this area quite rarely occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Calderaro
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Section of Microbiology, University Hospital of Parma, Viale A. Gramsci 14, 43126-Parma, Italy.
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Tudisco R, Calabrò S, Grossi M, Piccolo G, Guglielmelli A, Cutrignelli MI, Caiazzo C, Infascelli F. Influence of replacing corn silage with barley silage in the diets of buffalo cows on milk yield and quality. Vet Res Commun 2011; 34 Suppl 1:S193-6. [PMID: 20464483 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-010-9406-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A 150-day trial was carried out on 40 Italian Mediterranean buffalo cows that, immediately after calving, were equally divided into two homogeneous groups (M and O) based on the number of calving events and previous milk yield. The animals were fed (16 kg dry matter (DM)/head) two isoenergy/isoprotein diets (NEl: 6.39 MJ/kg DM; 15.4 CP% DM), composed of corn (diet M) or barley silage (diet O) concentrate, alfalfa hay, and a vitamin-mineral supplement. The fermentation characteristics of both silage diets were evaluated by an in vitro gas production technique, and their nutritional values were calculated as follows: NEl (MJ/kg DM) = 0.54 + 0.0959 GP + 0.0038 CP + 0.0001733 CP(2), where GP is the gas production after 24 h of incubation (ml/200 mg DM) and CP is the protein content of silage (g/kg DM). The nutritional values of the silages were slightly different (4.16 vs. 4.14 MJ/kg DM for M and O, respectively) likely due to the high content of hemicellulose in the O diet (22.0 vs. 16.9%). Average milk yield did not differ between the groups; instead, milk fat (8.39 vs. 9.06%; P < 0.01) and protein (4.41 vs. 4.60%; P < 0.01) levels were significantly higher in the O group. The results elicit great interest in southern Italy where corn cultivation is adversely affected by the high cost of irrigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Tudisco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Zootecniche e Ispezione degli alimenti, Facoltà di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Napoli, Italy.
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