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Puzelli S, Facchini M, Piacentini S, Di Mario G, Colucci ME, Calzoletti L, Fabiani C, Di Martino A, Veronesi L, Biasucci G, Codeluppi M, Cascio GL, Schiavo R, Rampini A, Affanni P, Palamara AT, Stefanelli P. Characterization of an influenza B virus isolated from a fatal case of myocarditis in a pediatric patient in Italy. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:417-420. [PMID: 38262078 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.12.018] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Influenza B is one of the infective agents that can cause rapid and fatal myocarditis in children. Here, we describe a fatal case of myocarditis in a previously healthy child, after infection with an influenza B/Victoria-lineage virus during the 2022-23 epidemic season in Italy. Influenza B virus was isolated also in a second case, a younger family member showing only a mild influenza-like illness. Genotypic and phenotypic analyses have been performed on both virus samples and results showed that HA1 sequences were identical and genetically and antigenically related to other B viruses circulating in 2022-23 season in Italy. However, a D129N substitution was found in the receptor binding domain of the HA of the two viruses, not detected in other circulating viruses in Italy but only in a proportion of those circulating in other European countries. Phenotypic analyses assessed the susceptibility towards either neuraminidase inhibitors and baloxavir. Annual influenza vaccination remains one of the best interventions to prevent complications such as myocarditis, particularly in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Puzelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy.
| | - Marzia Facchini
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Piacentini
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Di Mario
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Calzoletti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Fabiani
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Di Martino
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giacomo Biasucci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Pediatrics & Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Mauro Codeluppi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Schiavo
- Microbiology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza, Italy
| | | | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Anna Teresa Palamara
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Stefanelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
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De Ruvo N, Fenocchi S, Veronesi L, Missori G, Ricciardolo AA, Rossi EG, Sorrentino L, Cautero N, Serra F, Gelmini R. Prognostic factors in gastric cancer patients: a 10-year mono-institutional experience. Front Surg 2024; 11:1321981. [PMID: 38362460 PMCID: PMC10867173 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2024.1321981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the main causes of death from cancer globally. Long-term survival, especially in Western countries, remains dismal, with no significant improvements in recent years. Therefore, precise identification of clinical and pathological risk factors is crucial for prognosis, as it allows a better selection of patients suitable for oncologically radical treatments and contributes to longer survivals. Methods We devised a retrospective observational longitudinal study over 10 years of experience with GC patients operated with curative intent. Results Several factors were thoroughly investigated in a multivariate analysis to look for significance as independent risk factors for disease-free survival. Our results showed that only BMI, pTNM, and lymph node ratio expressed hazard ratios with implications for survival in our series of patients. Discussion Although limited by the retrospective nature of the study, this is one of the few cancer reports from Northern Italy showing results over 10 years, which may in our view, have an impact on decision-making processes for multidisciplinary teams dedicated to the care of gastric cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - F. Serra
- General, Oncological and Emergency Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery, AOU Policlinico di Modena, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Giordano R, Mariani E, Paini G, Veronesi L. A descriptive analysis of COVID-19 associated mortality in Parma Province: concordance between official national mortality register provided by ISTAT (National Institute of Statistics) and local ADS (Automated Data System) real-time surveillance flow. Acta Biomed 2023; 94:e2023212. [PMID: 37773504 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v94is3.14395] [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] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The Public Health Department of the Parma Local Health Authority (AUSL) has implemented a computerized system called ADS (Automated Data System) to collect data on COVID-19 cases and related deaths, as required by the Emilia-Romagna Region and the Italian Ministry of Health, to improve the daily flow of real-time information. However, official mortality data for all causes was collected even from the National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT) through death forms that were completed by certifying doctors in each municipality. This analysis aims to verify the agreement between the data collected by ISTAT and the data collected by ADS. METHODS The study period went from January 1st to December 31st, 2021. The population under observation consisted of residents in the province of Parma who died due to COVID-19, as identified through the ISTAT and/or ADS data flow. RESULTS In 2021, a total of 448 deaths due to COVID-19 were reported in the Parma Province, with a median age of 83 years. The ADS system identified 408 of these deaths, whereas ISTAT certified only 347. Three hundred and seven deaths were identified by both flows. CONCLUSIONS The survey suggests that the ADS surveillance system may have overestimated the COVID-19 mortality data compared to the ISTAT flow. The ADS has been valuable in the immediate response to emergencies, providing a more sensitive system that prioritizes the precautionary principle and enables decisions aimed at minimizing risks for vulnerable populations. However, it is not recommended for routine surveillance, as it is less reliable compared to the ISTAT flow.
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Albertini R, Colucci ME, Coluccia A, Mohieldin Mahgoub Ibrahim M, Zoni R, Veronesi L, Affanni P, Pasquarella C. An overview on the use of ultraviolet radiation to disinfect air and surfaces. Acta Biomed 2023; 94:e2023165. [PMID: 37695170 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v94is3.14666] [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] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum of wavelengths between 200 and 400 nm divided into three bands called UVA, UVB and UVC. Due its well-described antimicrobial activity, UVC can represent a useful tool for disinfect surfaces, water, and air. The aim of this study was to illustrate the studies over time ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) to disinfect air and surfaces. Methods Articles on Scopus published until April 14, 2023, were considered. Many issues involving UV were deepened crosschecking with e.g., "air", "surfaces", "disinfection", "bacteria", "fungi", "operating theatres". According to the case, the following variables were considered: years and related number of articles, sources of publications, subject areas, type of document published, type of journal, nationalities of the authors. Results Since 30's, 287 448 articles on UV have been published. Among UVGI, 22 159 articles covered bacteria issue, followed by fungi and viruses with about 12000 both. UVGI was addressed by 1941 and 931 articles for surfaces and air respectively. Of these, 122 were performed in operating theatres. Since 1987 works have been published on spacecraft and since 2000, on the use of UVGI robots for disinfect air and surfaces. Conclusions Our study shows the studies on UVGI and related issues. It also shows most recently perspectives about the applications e.g. during prolonged human-crewed missions on spacecrafts, to inactivate microorganisms in environments where the exchange of air is impossible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Albertini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma; U.O. Medicina interna di continuità, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma.
| | | | | | | | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
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Albertini R, Coluccia A, Colucci ME, Zoni R, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Pasquarella C. An overview of the studies on microbial air contamination in operating theatres and related issues over time: a useful tool for a multidisciplinary approach. Acta Biomed 2023; 94:e2023149. [PMID: 37695181 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v94is3.14507] [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] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim Surgical site infection (SSI) is a major complication following surgery associated with increased morbidity and mortality, as well as increased health and not health costs. A variety of factors affect airborne contamination in operating theatres (OT). Following the Medical Research Council study showing a correlation between microbial air contamination and SSI incidence in prosthetic joint surgery ultraclean OTs have been recommended for this type of surgery, while OTs supplied by turbulent airflow plants are recommended for other types of surgery. The aim of this study was to illustrate the studies on this topic. Methods Scopus was considered for articles published until January 2023 on OTs and air contamination in article title or abstract or keywords. Many issues were deepened: "microbial", "bacterial", "fungi", "viruses", "surgical site/wound infection", "monitoring/sampling", "air changes", "behaviour", "door openings", "particles", turbulent flow", "unidirectional flow". Results Total papers published were 907 and 249 papers faced monitoring/sampling. A total of 313 papers investigated airborne bacterial contamination and 63 papers investigated fungal air contamination. There were 218 papers that have evaluated particle contamination in OTs. Many other issues were deepened. Conclusions This study shows a picture of the studies on biological air contamination in OTs and related issues over time. We think that the results of our study will provide a useful tool to increase awareness towards a better sharing of aims, approaches, and results, above all in the interest of the patients, but also of the health services of the different countries. (www.actabiomedica.it).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Albertini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; Unit of Medicina Interna di Continuità, University Hospital of Parma, Italy.
| | - Alessia Coluccia
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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Protano C, Valeriani F, De Giorgi A, Angelillo S, Bargellini A, Bianco A, Bianco L, Caggiano G, Colucci ME, Coniglio MA, Dallolio L, De Giglio O, Di Giuseppe G, Elhadidy HSMA, Gioffrè ME, Laganà P, Licata F, Marchesi I, Masini A, Montagna MT, Napoli C, Orsi GB, Pasquarella C, Pelullo CP, Paduano S, Sacchetti R, Scaioli G, Siliquini R, Veronesi L, Liguori G, Spica VR, Vitali M, Gallè F. Consumption of Energy Drinks among Italian University students: a cross-sectional multicenter study. Eur J Nutr 2023:10.1007/s00394-023-03140-w. [PMID: 37022467 PMCID: PMC10078034 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-023-03140-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to evaluate the caffeinated Energy Drinks (EDs) consumption among a large sample of Italian undergraduates and its association with some of the major lifestyle risk factors. METHODS Students attending twelve public Italian universities were involved between October 2021 and May 2022. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, ED consumption, and on health-related behaviors of participants was collected by the use of a web-based questionnaire. RESULTS A total of 2165 students participated in the study and 15.2% of them reported having used caffeinated EDs in the last six months, mainly once a month (41.5%). In comparison with non-users, ED users showed a higher proportion of males (p < 0.001) and a higher father's educational level (p = 0.003), came mainly from Northern universities (p = 0.004) and life sciences degree courses (p < 0.001). Besides, ED users reported higher BMI values (p = 0.003), more particular dietary regimens (p < 0.001), higher levels of weekly moderate-vigorous physical activity (p < 0.001) and participation in sports (p < 0.001) and in team sports (p = 0.003), and higher proportion of smokers (p < 0.001) and alcohol drinkers (p = 0.005). ED use was negatively related with female gender (OR 0.546; 95% CI 0.374-0.798), the Mediterranean diet (OR 0.587; 95% CI 0.362-0.951) and coming from the center of Italy (OR 0.500; 95% CI 0.275-0.909) and positively associated with tobacco smoke (OR 1.712; 95% CI 1.176-2.492) and participation in a team sport (OR 1.686; 95% CI 1.051-2.707). CONCLUSION These findings could encourage figures engaged in education to increase the students' awareness on this issue in order to prevent the excessive use of EDs and associated unhealthy behaviors, especially in the most interested subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giorgi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Angelillo
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Annalisa Bargellini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Aida Bianco
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Lavinia Bianco
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Caggiano
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | | | - Maria Anna Coniglio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "Gianfilippo Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura Dallolio
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Gabriella Di Giuseppe
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Licata
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Græcia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Isabella Marchesi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alice Masini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Concetta Paola Pelullo
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples "Parthenope", Via Medina 40, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania Paduano
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Rossella Sacchetti
- Department of Education Studies "Giovanni Maria Bertin", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Scaioli
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberta Siliquini
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- City of Health and Science of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples "Parthenope", Via Medina 40, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples "Parthenope", Via Medina 40, Naples, Italy.
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Pasquarella CIM, Auxilia F, Barchitta M, Cristina ML, D'Alessandro D, Mura I, Nobile M, Veronesi L, Albertini R, Agodi A. Air microbial sampling in operating theatres by active and passive methods: equation correlation from the GISIO-ISChIA study results and comparison with the EU GGMP recommendation, towards the definition of threshold values. Acta Biomed 2023; 94:e2023017. [PMID: 36786252 PMCID: PMC9987490 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v94i1.14012] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to calculate the equation of correlation between the microbial air contamination values obtained by active sampling (colony-forming units per cubic metre, CFU/m3) and by passive sampling (Index of microbial air contamination, IMA), by using the data from the ISChIA study, and to compare the values obtained with the recommended limits defined by the EU Guidelines to Good Manufacturing Practice (EU GGMP), 2008, for clean areas used to manufacture sterile medicinal products. Air sampling was performed during 335 elective prosthesis procedures. Correlation between CFU/m3 and IMA values was evaluated using the Spearman test; p<0.05 was considered to indicate significance. This equation was used to calculate the IMA values corresponding to the CFU/m3 recommended threshold values by EU GGMP for the different Grades of microbial contamination. The following correlation equation was obtained: y = 1.86 + 0.12x, where "x" = cfu/m3 value and "y" = IMA value. The relationships between CFU/m3 and IMA values obtained from active and passive sampling during the ISChIA study showed to be in line to those suggested by the EU GGMP for pharmaceutical manufacturing for Grade C and D. This study shows that the EU GGMP relationship could be considered valid also for operating theatres. Both methods, active and passive samplings, can be used to evaluate microbial air quality and highlight critical situations; however, in particular during the activity, passive sampling estimating the risk posed by airborne microorganisms to the surgical wound, can be considered more relevant, and for its simplicity, economy and standardization, can be suggested for routine microbial monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesco Auxilia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; ASST Fatebenefratelli - Sacco, Milan, Italy.
| | - Martina Barchitta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Maria Luisa Cristina
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Hospital Hygiene Unit, E.O. Ospedali Galliera, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Daniela D'Alessandro
- Department of Civil Building and Environmental Engineering, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy .
| | - Ida Mura
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Marta Nobile
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Roberto Albertini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy; U.O. Medicina Interna di Continuità, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Antonella Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Albertini R, Veronesi L, Colucci ME, Pasquarella C. The scenario of the studies on ragweed (Ambrosia Sp.) and related issues from its beginning to today: a useful tool for future goals in a one health approach. Acta Biomed 2022; 93:e2022324. [PMID: 36300205 PMCID: PMC9686166 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v93i5.13771] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Airborne ragweed pollen is one of the agents of respiratory allergies in our changing environment. The monitoring of pollen is essential to manage pollen allergy and to improve its forecasting methods. Moreover, the control and fight against ragweed plants is important. Aim of this study is to understand the scenario of the studies on ragweed over time. METHODS We searched PubMed and Scopus for articles published until July 2022 reporting the words "ragweed". Articles written in all languages were included. RESULTS Scopus was the database with the highest number of published papers. Among the papers on ragweed, the papers citing the word "allergy" were 59.4% in PubMed and 37,6% in Scopus. The subject areas more addressed were medicine, immunology, genetics/molecular biology, but agricultural/biological sciences too and, interestingly, other subjects like social sciences, art, humanistic, etc.). Among the top 40 institutions supporting research, 8 were European, 4 Asian, 1 Russian and 21 were American, the other 6 were pharmaceutical companies. CONCLUSIONS This study shows a picture of the ragweed studies and some related subjects over time. A gap between the number of biomedical and not biomedical issues was evident. There is a need for greater involvement of institutions into support of knowledge and fight ragweed. The results will provide a useful tool to identify future goals in a global approach of ragweed related issues.
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Pasquarella C, Bizzarro A, Martini R, Martini R, Colucci ME, Rossi D, Faetani L, Ghizzoni D, Seidenari C, Paroni E, Muzzetto P, Romiti D, Ruggeri J, Pasquarella ML, Affanni P, Zoni R, Signorelli C, Gobbi G, Presta V, Costantino C, Veronesi L. Transforming waiting pauses into opportunity for physical activity: the "Activate your Wait" pilot study. Acta Biomed 2022; 93:e2022310. [PMID: 36300217 PMCID: PMC9686157 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v93i5.13550] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Physical activity is recognized as a major health determinant. However, the prevalence of inactivity can be as high as 80% in some adult subpopulations. From the urgent need to implement strategies to fight sedentary behaviour, considering that physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure, the pilot study "Activate your Wait" was born. The project aim is to transform waiting pauses during everyday life into opportunities to perform simple stretching and active mobilization exercises. METHODS The pilot study was carried out in 2019 at Terme S. Egidio (Italy). It was divided in three phases: in the pre-intervention a questionnaire was used to evaluate the interest in the project (96 responders); during the intervention, examples of simple exercises that people can do by themselves were illustrated and undertaken by about 120 participants; in the post-intervention an evaluation questionnaire was administered (71 responders). RESULTS The intervention aroused enthusiastic participation and high approval and resulted in an increase both in willingness to perform exercises during daily waiting pauses (68% vs 94%) and belief in positive results of physical activity on health (74% vs 96%). CONCLUSIONS In a context where the opportunities for physical activity are decreasing and a sedentary lifestyle has reached a high level, this project represents a contribution to the increase in the awareness of the importance of physical activity and the promotion of the culture of movement in the entire population, with an opportunity of easy accessibility in different contexts of life, at all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Deanna Rossi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Faetani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Eleonora Paroni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | | | - Davide Romiti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Janis Ruggeri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | | | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | | | - Giuliana Gobbi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
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Gallè F, Valeriani F, Marotta D, De Giorgi A, Bargellini A, Bianco A, Colucci ME, Coniglio MA, Dallolio L, De Giglio O, Di Giuseppe G, Diella G, Laganà P, Licata F, Liguori G, Marchesi I, Marini S, Montagna MT, Napoli C, Orsi GB, Pasquarella C, Pelullo CP, Ricciardi L, Romano Spica V, Sacchetti R, Tardivo S, Veronesi L, Vitali M, Protano C. What about Your Body Ornament? Experiences of Tattoo and Piercing among Italian Youths. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:12429. [PMID: 34886155 PMCID: PMC8657262 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312429] [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] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND tattooing and piercing are increasingly common, especially among youths. However, several health complications may be associated with these practices if basic hygiene rules are not respected. This multicenter study was aimed at exploring tattoo and piercing experiences reported by a large sample of Italian undergraduate students through a public health perspective. METHODS tattooed and/or pierced students attending 12 Italian universities were asked to complete a web-based questionnaire regarding their body art experience. RESULTS out of 1472 respondents, 833 (56.6%) were tattooed and 1009 (68.5%) were pierced. The greatest proportion of tattooed students (93.9%) got her/his first tattoo in a tattoo studio, while most of the pierced were serviced in a jewelry store (48.0%). The pierced ones were less informed on health issues related to the procedure (56.0% versus 77.8% of tattooed p < 0.001), and tattooists were reportedly more attentive to hygiene rules (instrument sterilization 91.5% versus 79.1% of piercers, p < 0.001; use of disposable gloves 98.2% versus 71% of piercers, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS educational interventions for both professionals and communities are needed to improve the awareness and the control of health risks related to body art throughout the Italian territory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniela Marotta
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Andrea De Giorgi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Annalisa Bargellini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.B.); (I.M.)
| | - Aida Bianco
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Maria Eugenia Colucci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (M.E.C.); (C.P.); (L.V.)
| | - Maria Anna Coniglio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Laura Dallolio
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.D.); (S.M.)
| | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (O.D.G.); (G.D.); (M.T.M.)
| | - Gabriella Di Giuseppe
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.)
| | - Giusy Diella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (O.D.G.); (G.D.); (M.T.M.)
| | - Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Francesca Licata
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (A.B.); (F.L.)
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Isabella Marchesi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (A.B.); (I.M.)
| | - Sofia Marini
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.D.); (S.M.)
| | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (O.D.G.); (G.D.); (M.T.M.)
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00139 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Battista Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Cesira Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (M.E.C.); (C.P.); (L.V.)
| | - Concetta Paola Pelullo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (G.D.G.); (C.P.P.)
| | - Luca Ricciardi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sense Organs (NESMOS), Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human, and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
| | - Rossella Sacchetti
- Department of Education Studies “Giovanni Maria Bertin”, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Stefano Tardivo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy;
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy; (M.E.C.); (C.P.); (L.V.)
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.M.); (A.D.G.); (G.B.O.); (M.V.); (C.P.)
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Mohieldin Mahgoub Ibrahim M, Colucci ME, Veronesi L, Viani I, Odone A, Arena MP, Incerti M, Tamburini E, Zoni R, Pasquarella C, Affanni P. Virological surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in an Italian Northern area: differences in gender, age and Real Time RT PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values in three epidemic periods. Acta Biomed 2021; 92:e2021457. [PMID: 34739457 PMCID: PMC8851017 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v92is6.12268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a global public health emergency. The aim of this study was to investigate cases characteristics and Real Time RT PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values distribution of COVID-19 in an Italian Northern area during three periods: first period, February-May 2020; second period, June-August 2020; third period, September 2020-February 2021. METHODS Real Time RT PCR was used to detect SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory samples (oro/nasopharyngeal swabs). RESULTS A total of 254,744 samples were tested during the study period. Out of 20,188 positive samples (7.92%), 10,303 were females (51.04%) and 9,885 were males (48.96%). The percentage of positivity varied during the three different periods: 14.1% in the first period, 1.4% in the second and 9.2% in the third. The lowest Ct values were observed in the first phase of pandemic, with an overall average of 25.64. Overall average of the Ct values was lower in males than in females, 26.29 ± 6.04 and 26.84 ± 5.99 respectively. The oldest patients recorded lower Ct values. CONCLUSIONS The findings of our study represent further evidence in support of the fact that male sex and older age showed lower Ct values, which means higher viral loads and higher infectious potential. These knowledges are useful to better understand the epidemiological aspects of COVID-19 and to perform effective Public Health Policies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Isabella Viani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Anna Odone
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Italy.
| | | | - Monia Incerti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Elisa Tamburini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
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Antonelli M, Donelli D, Veronesi L, Vitale M, Pasquarella C. Clinical efficacy of medical hydrology: an umbrella review. Int J Biometeorol 2021; 65:1597-1614. [PMID: 33866427 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-021-02133-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this research was to summarize available scientific evidence on the efficacy of medical hydrology for the management of any health condition. The search was conducted on 26th March 2021, in the following databases: Medline (via PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. All relevant literature reviews investigating the clinical efficacy of interventions characterized by the use of natural mineral waters and muds were included. The quality of studies was assessed with the "AMSTAR 2" tool. After article screening, 49 reviews were included in this work. Overall, retrieved scientific evidence suggests that spa therapy is beneficial for patients affected by some specific musculoskeletal conditions, with improvements potentially lasting up to 9 months. Moreover, balneotherapy can be an integrative support for the management of chronic venous insufficiency and some inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis. The role of spa therapy in rehabilitation appears relevant as well. More limited, although interesting evidence exists for inhalation and hydropinic therapies. Globally, retrieved evidence suggests that, besides individual wellbeing, medical hydrology can be useful for public health. In particular, higher-quality studies seem to support the integrative use of spa-related interventions for conditions like osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, low back pain of rheumatic origin, and chronic venous insufficiency. However, the body of evidence has some limitations and further clinical trials should be designed for each relevant application to consolidate and expand acquired knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Antonelli
- AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, Via Giovanni Amendola 2, 42122, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - Davide Donelli
- AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, Via Giovanni Amendola 2, 42122, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Vitale
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- FoRST Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Sverzellati N, Ryerson CJ, Milanese G, Renzoni EA, Volpi A, Spagnolo P, Bonella F, Comelli I, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Manna C, Ciuni A, Sartorio C, Tringali G, Silva M, Michieletti E, Colombi D, Wells AU. Chest radiography or computed tomography for COVID-19 pneumonia? Comparative study in a simulated triage setting. Eur Respir J 2021; 58:13993003.04188-2020. [PMID: 33574070 PMCID: PMC7877328 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.04188-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [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: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction For the management of patients referred to respiratory triage during the early stages of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, either chest radiography or computed tomography (CT) were used as first-line diagnostic tools. The aim of this study was to compare the impact on the triage, diagnosis and prognosis of patients with suspected COVID-19 when clinical decisions are derived from reconstructed chest radiography or from CT. Methods We reconstructed chest radiographs from high-resolution CT (HRCT) scans. Five clinical observers independently reviewed clinical charts of 300 subjects with suspected COVID-19 pneumonia, integrated with either a reconstructed chest radiography or HRCT report in two consecutive blinded and randomised sessions: clinical decisions were recorded for each session. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and prognostic value were compared between reconstructed chest radiography and HRCT. The best radiological integration was also examined to develop an optimised respiratory triage algorithm. Results Interobserver agreement was fair (Kendall's W=0.365, p<0.001) by the reconstructed chest radiography-based protocol and good (Kendall's W=0.654, p<0.001) by the CT-based protocol. NPV assisted by reconstructed chest radiography (31.4%) was lower than that of HRCT (77.9%). In case of indeterminate or typical radiological appearance for COVID-19 pneumonia, extent of disease on reconstructed chest radiography or HRCT were the only two imaging variables that were similarly linked to mortality by adjusted multivariable models Conclusions The present findings suggest that clinical triage is safely assisted by chest radiography. An integrated algorithm using first-line chest radiography and contingent use of HRCT can help optimise management and prognostication of COVID-19. This study does not support the routine use of CT to stage disease extent in COVID-19 pneumonia, despite superior interobserver agreement, as chest radiography extent is an equally powerful prognostic determinanthttps://bit.ly/3rdJuxj
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Sverzellati
- Scienze Radiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Christopher J Ryerson
- Dept of Medicine, University of British Columbia and Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gianluca Milanese
- Scienze Radiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elisabetta A Renzoni
- Interstitial Lung Disease Unit, Royal Brompton Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Annalisa Volpi
- 1st Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Paolo Spagnolo
- Respiratory Disease Unit, Dept of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesco Bonella
- Center for Interstitial and Rare Lung Diseases, Pneumology Dept, Ruhrandklinik University Hospital, University of Duiburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ivan Comelli
- Unità Operativa Pronto Soccorso e Medicina d'Urgenza, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Paola Affanni
- Dept of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Dept of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carmelinda Manna
- Scienze Radiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciuni
- Scienze Radiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlotta Sartorio
- Scienze Radiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giulia Tringali
- Scienze Radiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Mario Silva
- Scienze Radiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University Hospital of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Emanuele Michieletti
- Dept of Radiological Functions, Radiology Unit, "Guglielmo da Saliceto" Hospital, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Davide Colombi
- Dept of Radiological Functions, Radiology Unit, "Guglielmo da Saliceto" Hospital, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Athol U Wells
- Interstitial Lung Disease Unit, Royal Brompton Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Musolino A, Pellegrino B, Isella L, Tommasi C, Pucci F, Leonetti A, Rapacchi E, Leonardi F, Bizzoco S, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Sgargi P, Maglietta G, Michiara M. 1587P SARS-CoV-2 infection risk and COVID-19 prevalence in cancer patients during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic in a Northern Italy’s virus epicenter area. Ann Oncol 2021. [PMCID: PMC8454340 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2021.08.1580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Piscitelli A, Agodi A, Agozzino E, Arrigoni C, Barchitta M, Brusaferro S, Castaldi S, Castiglia P, Cozzi L, D'Errico MM, De Caro F, De Giglio O, Iannazzo S, Laganà P, Laurenti P, Mascipinto S, Montagna MT, Mura I, Pasquarella C, Veronesi L, Rossi F, Ripabelli G, Rossini A, Scippa F, Sodano L, Squeri R, Staniscia T, Torregrossa V, Auxilia F. The Clean Care Contest: promoting hand hygiene among healthcare and medical students. Ann Ig 2021; 32:462-471. [PMID: 32744581 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2020.2370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite continuing efforts, compliance rates and knowledge of best practices in hand hygiene remain disappointing. Recognizing that conventional educational tools seem out of touch with young people and that the med and messages contents need refreshing, the Italian Study Group of Hospital Hygiene of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health devised a novel approach to promote the creation of innovative educational tools for improving knowledge of, and compliance with, hand hygiene rules among healthcare and medical students. METHODS A contest in creating educational material on hand hygiene practices involved university students of nursing and medicine, and of other healthcare degrees. Students from the universities of the GISIO network were invited to create educational material (e.g., videos, posters, presentations, leaflets, and screensavers) to be presented by May 5th 2019 during the World Hand Hygiene Day / Save Lives: Clean Your Hands Global Annual Initiative of the World Health Organization). A local and a national winners were awarded. RESULTS Three different local and national contests were performed during 2016, 2017 and 2018. During the three-year period, more than 270 educational tools have been developed: 130 (48%) were judged useful for hand hygiene promotion campaigns. The most frequent projects participating in the contests were videos (39%), posters (29%), leaflets (14%), and others (18%) submitted by more than 1,500 students of nursing (40%), medicine (31%), dentistry (7%), and of other healthcare courses in 14 universities. Products were evaluated by a local committee and, subsequently, local winners represented their University in a national contest. CONCLUSIONS The contest provided a framework for the creation of innovative and potentially effective educational tools via an engaging approach that leveraged student creativity. Given the need to improve compliance rates, this study suggests that new ways can be advantageously explored to teach hand hygiene procedures and increase awareness of the importance of their consistent use among healthcare and medical students.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Piscitelli
- Hospital Health Management, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - A Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Italy
| | - E Agozzino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - C Arrigoni
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Unit of Hygiene, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - M Barchitta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Italy
| | - S Brusaferro
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Italy
| | - S Castaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, IRCCS Ca' Granda, Milan, Italy
| | - P Castiglia
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - L Cozzi
- School of Specialization in Pediatrics, University of Milan, Italy
| | - M M D'Errico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, Torrette di Ancona, Italy
| | - F De Caro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, Odontoiatrics University of Salerno, Fisciano (SA), Italy
| | - O De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - S Iannazzo
- Department of Prevention, ASL Roma 3, Rome, Italy
| | - P Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Italy
| | - P Laurenti
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - S Mascipinto
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - M T Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - I Mura
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy
| | - C Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery University of Parma, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery University of Parma, Italy
| | - F Rossi
- European Institute of Design, Milan, Italy
| | - G Ripabelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Italy
| | - A Rossini
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation Rome, Italy
| | | | - L Sodano
- Our Lady of Good Counsel, Catholic University, Elbasan, Albania
| | - R Squeri
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Italy
| | - T Staniscia
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University of Chieti-Pescara "G. D'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - V Torregrossa
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties University of Palermo, Italy
| | - F Auxilia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli - Sacco, Milan, Italy
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Esposito S, Neglia C, Affanni P, Colucci ME, Argentiero A, Veronesi L, Messina G, Deolmi M, Principi N. Epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Evaluated by Immunochromatographic Rapid Testing for the Determination of IgM and IgG Against SARS-CoV-2 in a Cohort of Mask Wearing Workers in the Metal-Mechanical Sector in an Area With a High Incidence of COVID-19. Front Public Health 2021; 9:628098. [PMID: 34249830 PMCID: PMC8267366 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.628098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although the diagnosis of new coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is made through the identification of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in respiratory secretions by means of molecular methods, a more accurate estimation of SARS-CoV-2 circulation can be obtained by seroprevalence studies. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the true epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 infection among workers in the metal-mechanical sector who never stopped working during the pandemic period in an area with a high incidence of COVID-19 and to define whether and how they could continue the work without appreciable risks during a second wave. Methods: A total of 815 metal-mechanical workers who had never stopped working even during the pandemic period in three different factories in the Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy, and who had always used face masks during working hours, underwent a capillary blood rapid test for the determination of IgM and IgG against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 IgG/IgM Rapid test, PrimaLab, Modena, Italy). In the event of a positive test, a nasopharyngeal was performed and tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2. Results: The detection of serum IgG/IgM against SARS-CoV-2 was significantly more common among workers employed in Parma (21/345, 6.1%) than among those employed in Calerno (7/242, 2.9%) or in Spilamberto (3/228, 1.3%) (p <0.001). The analysis of the role of the different variables as predictors of seropositivity for IgG/IgM against SARS-CoV-2 revealed that the presence of specific antibodies was strictly associated with a previous history of COVID-19-like symptoms (odds ratio [OR] 3.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9–8.2) and household members with COVID-19-like symptoms (OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.04–4.82). Conclusion: This study shows that seropositivity to SARS-CoV-2 is low even among employees who did not interrupt their work during the lockdown phase in a region with a high incidence of COVID-19. The use of face masks appears effective in the avoidance of the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in factories even in the presence of asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic workers, suggesting that work activities can continue if adequate infection control measures are used during a second wave.
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Pasquarella C, Pompili M, Valeriani F, Morgado M, Milicia GM, Veronesi L, Odone A, Zoni R, Saccani E, Savino G, Persi Y, Pinelli M, Liguori G, Gallè F, Di Onofrio V, Fallace P, Romano Spica V. The prevention of doping and the improper use of drugs and food supplements in sports and physical activities: a survey on the activity of the prevention departments of Italian local health authorities. Ann Ig 2020; 31:533-547. [PMID: 31616898 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2019.2314] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Doping is an important public health problem widespread not only among elite athletes, but also among amateur and recreational athletes and the general population. In Italy the introduction of doping prevention within the Essential Levels of Care (LEA) with the DPCM 12/1/2017 represents a crucial step towards the implementation of education and health promotion interventions. In this context, the Departments of Prevention (DP) of the Local Health Authorities (LHA) have to play a fundamental role, becoming the cultural and operational reference on this issue. As part of the "Doping prevention: development of a permanent educational tool coordinated by the National Health Service Prevention Departments" project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Health, a survey was conducted on the activities carried out by the DP regarding doping prevention and improper use and abuse of drugs and food supplements in sports and physical activities, as a basis for the harmonization of organizational structures and prevention programs and the creation of a collaboration network at a regional and national level. METHODS A semi-structured questionnaire consisting of 11 questions, prepared on an electronic platform, was sent to the DP of all the Italian LHA. RESULTS A total of 38 DP out of 131 (29%) completed the questionnaire, with representation from all regions. 42.1% of DP carried out or are still running programs for the prevention of doping, a percentage that decreases to 27% considering the programs for the prevention of misuse and abuse of drugs and food supplements in sports and in physical activities; in less than half of the DP, 37.5% and 41.7%, respectively, dedicated funds have been allocated. The professionals most involved in prevention of doping are the Specialists in Sport Medicine (81.3%) followed by Specialists in Hygiene (43.8%) and Psychologists (37.5%), while Health Care Assistants (50%) are the professionals most involved in the prevention of the improper use of drugs and food supplements, followed by Specialists in Hygiene and Specialists in Sport Medicine (40%). Most of the DP (71.9%) believe that the introduction of programs to prevent and counteract doping in the LEA will have repercussions on their approach against doping. CONCLUSIONS The survey, although conducted on a limited sample, has provided an important framework relating to programs for the prevention of doping and the misuse and abuse of drugs and food supplements in sports and in the physical activities carried out by DP. A remarkable heterogeneity has been highlighted, both at national and regional level. It is urgent to provide DP with homogeneous and effective organizational models and adequate operational tools, paying particular attention to the training of all the professionals involved. It is also essential to implement permanent monitoring tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy - WDPP, Working Group Doping Prevention Project
| | - M Pompili
- Local Health Autority Area Vasta n.1, Fano, Italy - RRN, Regional Referents Network
| | - F Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - M Morgado
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - G M Milicia
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - A Odone
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - R Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - E Saccani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - G Savino
- Emilia-Romagna Antidoping Center, AUSL Modena, Modena, Italy - WDPP, Working Group Doping Prevention Project
| | - Y Persi
- Emilia-Romagna Antidoping Center, AUSL Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - M Pinelli
- Emilia-Romagna Antidoping Center, AUSL Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - G Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy - GSMS-SItI, Working Group on Movement Sciences for Health, Italian Society of Hygiene Preventive Medicine and Public Health - WDPP, Working Group Doping Prevention Project
| | - F Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Italy
| | - V Di Onofrio
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Naples "Parthenope", Naples, Ital
| | - P Fallace
- Prevention Department of ASL Napoli 2 Nord, Naples, Italy - WDPP, Working Group Doping Prevention Project - RRN, Regional Referents Network
| | - V Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy - WDPP, Working Group Doping Prevention Project
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18
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Esposito S, Gnocchi M, Gagliardi M, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Colucci ME, Neglia C, Argentiero A, Principi N. Therapeutic strategies against COVID-19. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:e2020038. [PMID: 32921732 PMCID: PMC7716986 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3.10450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel coronavirus that mainly affects the upper and lower respiratory tract and is responsible for extremely different degrees of disease, ranging from flu-like symptoms to atypical pneumonia that may evolve to acute respiratory distress syndrome and, ultimately, death. No specific therapy for SARS-CoV-2 has yet been identified, but since the beginning of the outbreak, several pre-existing therapeutics have been reconsidered for the treatment of infected patients. The aim of this article is to discuss current therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2. A literature review was performed using PubMed, collecting data from English-language articles published until June 20th, 2020. Literature analysis showed that with the acquisition of more in-depth knowledge on the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 and the pathogenesis of the different clinical manifestations, a more rationale use of available drugs has become possible. However, the road to defining which drugs are effective and which schedules of administration must be used to maximize efficacy and minimize adverse events is still very long. To date, it is only clear that no drug can alone cope with all the problems posed by SARS-CoV-2 infection and effective antivirals and inflammatory drugs must be given together to reduce COVID-19 clinical manifestations. Moreover, choice of therapy must always be tailored on clinical manifestations and, when they occur, drugs able to fight coagulopathy and venous thromboembolism that may contribute to respiratory deterioration must be prescribed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margherita Gnocchi
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Martina Gagliardi
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Cosimo Neglia
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Alberto Argentiero
- Pediatric Clinic, Pietro Barilla Children's Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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19
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Morgado M, Palandri L, Colucci ME, Affanni P, Zoni R, Pasquarella C, Righi E, Veronesi L. Implementation of Acute Flaccid Paralysis Surveillance in Emilia-Romagna, Italy: 2018-2019 analysis. Eur J Public Health 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaa166.1340] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Problem
Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) active surveillance is the gold standard in polio eradication process. Italy was classified in 2017 at intermediate risk of poliovirus reintroduction based on suboptimal poliovirus surveillance. The aim of this study was to restore an adequate level of AFP surveillance in Emilia-Romagna Region.
Description of the Problem
The Emilia-Romagna's Reference Centre for AFP surveillance, in collaboration with the regional Public Health Service identified a collaborative network for AFP Surveillance by analysing the 2015-2017 Hospital Discharge Registers in all region's hospitals. The surveillance protocol was reviewed with the development of a computerized system of Active Surveillance-Zero Reporting sent by e-mail to doctors in the network every 15 days since October 2018. The goal was to restore the AFP notification system to meet WHO requirements sensitivity, completeness of case investigation, completeness of follow-up and to monitor the active surveillance program adherence.
Results
The active surveillance network was composed by 49 doctors from both hospital administrations and clinical wards from 4 University Hospitals and 7 Local Health Authorities throughout the region. By the end of 2019, the mean response to each e-mail was 48.5% (SD 7.5%); 7 AFP cases have been reported; 85.7% received a full clinical and virological investigation and 83.3% completed the 60 day's follow-up. The final diagnosis of the cases was: 3 Guillain-Barre, 1 transient polyneuritis after HAV vaccination, 1 neuromyopathy from chronic disease, 1 acute myelitis in patient with DADA2. In 2 cases the paralysis persisted after 60 days.
Lessons
In 2019, the active surveillance system reached sensitivity, completeness of case investigation and follow-up required. Intervention had no expenses, is easily reproducible, created a direct collaboration between clinical colleagues in the network and the reference center which restored adherence to AFP surveillance.
Key messages
This work proposes how to improve AFP surveillance in a setting with low polio risk perception due to the absence of cases. Additionally, it reinforces the importance of direct collaboration/teamwork between institutions, regional reference centres and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Morgado
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - L Palandri
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - M E Colucci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - P Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - R Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - E Righi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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20
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Bizzarro A, Rossi D, Faetani L, Ghizzoni D, Martini R, Martini R, Veronesi L, Costantino C, Pasquarella C. Transforming waiting pauses into opportunity for physical activity: the “Activate your Wait” project. Eur J Public Health 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaa166.394] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Physical activity is recognised as a major health determinant, with positive effects on health, environmental sustainability and economy. However, worldwide, 1 in 4 adults, and 3 in 4 adolescents do not currently meet the recommendations for physical activity set by the World Health Organization. Notably, the prevalence of inactivity varies considerably within and between countries, and can be as high as 80% in some adult subpopulations. From the urgent need to implement strategies to fight sedentary behaviour, and considering that physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure, the project “Activate your Wait” was born. The project aim is to transform the waiting pauses during everyday life into opportunities to perform simple stretching and active mobilization exercises. The pilot study was carried out in September 2019 at the Terme S. Egidio, Suio Terme Castelforte (Italy). It was divided in three phases: in the pre-intervention phase a questionnaire evaluated the interest in the project (96 responders); during the intervention phase, lasting three days, examples of simple exercises that people can do by themselves were illustrated and undertaken by about 120 participants; in the post-intervention an evaluation questionnaire was administered (71 responders). The intervention aroused great participation and high approval (97%), and resulted in an increase both in willingness to perform exercises during daily waiting breaks (68% vs 94%) and belief in positive results of physical activity on health (74% vs 96%). In a context where the opportunities for physical activity are decreasing and a sedentary lifestyle has reached a high level, this project represents a contribution to the increase in the awareness of the importance of physical activity and the promotion of the culture of movement in the entire population, with an opportunity of easy accessibility in different contexts of life, at all ages.
Key messages
Physical activity is a major determinant of health, therefore it is fundamental to take all possible opportunities to be active. Waiting pauses are the perfect chance to exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bizzarro
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - D Rossi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - L Faetani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - D Ghizzoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - R Martini
- Terme S Egidio, Suio Terme, Castelforte, Italy
| | - R Martini
- Terme S Egidio, Suio Terme, Castelforte, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C Costantino
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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21
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Pasquarella C, Colucci ME, Bizzarro A, Veronesi L, Affanni P, Meschi T, Brianti E, Vitali P, Albertini R. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 on hospital surfaces. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:76-78. [PMID: 32701919 PMCID: PMC8023093 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i9-s.10137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, affecting 213 countries, with more than 10 million cases and over 500,000 deaths is still causing serious health, social and economic emergency worldwide. Italian Northern regions are among the most badly affected areas. Surfaces represent matrices to which particular attention should be paid for prevention and control of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A few studies have highlighted virus presence on surfaces. We report the evidence of its presence on hospital surfaces, in a single room hosting a patient whose nose-pharyngeal swab resulted positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA at the admission. The surfaces sampling was carried out using pre-wetted swabs followed by extraction and amplification of viral RNA by reverse Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR). A total of 4/15 (26.66%) surfaces were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA: the right bed rail, the call button, the bed trapeze bar, the stethoscope; moreover, the patient's inner surgical mask was positive, showing the emission of the virus from the patient. This study is a further confirmation that the surfaces represent a potential vehicle of transmission. This supports the need for strict adherence to hand and environmental hygiene.
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22
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Veronesi L, Colucci ME, Pasquarella C, Caruso L, Mohieldin Mahgoub Ibrahim M, Zoni R, Pergreffi M, Arcuri C, Seidenari C, Viani I, Capobianco E, Mezzetta S, Affanni P. Virological surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in an Italian northern area: comparison of Real Time RT PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values in three epidemic periods. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:19-21. [PMID: 32701912 PMCID: PMC8023099 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i9-s.10138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aim of the study was to investigate the differences in Ct values in nasopharingeal swabs collected in three SARS-CoV-2 epidemic periods: first one from February 23 to March 25 (14 days from lockdown started on March 11); the second one from March 26 to May 18 (14 days from the end of strict lockdown on May 4) and the third one from May 19 until June 15. Viral RNA was detected in nasopharyngeal swabs obtained both from inpatients and outpatients. COVID-19 infection was confirmed according to the Ct values for N1 and N2 genes ascertained by Real-Time RT-PCR assay as described by the CDC. We calculated the prevalence of nasopharyngeal swabs tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the mean and median of the Cts and the percentage of samples equal or below the Ct value of 25 in the 3 periods considered. The average value of Ct increased, going from 24.80 in the first epidemic period to 26.64 in the second period to 28.50 in the third period (p <0.001). The percentage of samples with Ct lower than or equal to 25 also decreased sharply from 54.7% to 20.0%. These findings need to be integrated with epidemiological and clinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luca Caruso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Carlo Arcuri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Isabella Viani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Sandra Mezzetta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
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23
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Conte C, Sogni F, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Argentiero A, Esposito S. Vaccines against Coronaviruses: The State of the Art. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E309. [PMID: 32560340 PMCID: PMC7350246 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8020309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [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: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The emerging epidemic caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 represents the most important socio-health threat of the 21st century. The high contagiousness of the virus, the strong impact on the health system of the various countries and the absence to date of treatments able to improve the prognosis of the disease make the introduction of a vaccine indispensable, even though there are currently no approved human coronavirus vaccines. The aim of the study is to carry out a review of the medical literature concerning vaccine candidates for the main coronaviruses responsible for human epidemics, including recent advances in the development of a vaccine against COVID-19. This extensive review carried out on the vaccine candidates of the main epidemic coronaviruses of the past has shown that the studies in animal models suggest a high efficacy of potential vaccines in providing protection against viral challenges. Similar human studies have not yet been carried out, as the main trials are aimed at assessing mainly vaccine safety and immunogenicity. Whereas the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV) epidemic ended almost two decades ago and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV) epidemic is now better controlled, as it is less contagious due to the high lethality of the virus, the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic represents a problem that is certainly more compelling, which pushes us to accelerate the studies not only for the production of vaccines but also for innovative pharmacological treatments. SARS-CoV-2 vaccines might come too late to affect the first wave of this pandemic, but they might be useful if additional subsequent waves occur or in a post-pandemic perspective in which the virus continues to circulate as a seasonal virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Conte
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.C.); (F.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Francesco Sogni
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.C.); (F.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (P.A.); (L.V.)
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (P.A.); (L.V.)
| | - Alberto Argentiero
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.C.); (F.S.); (A.A.)
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Pediatric Clinic, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Pietro Barilla Children’s Hospital, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.C.); (F.S.); (A.A.)
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24
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Pasquarella C, Bizzarro A, Martini R, Ricci B, Martini R, Colucci ME, Rossi D, Faetani L, Ghizzoni D, Tamarri F, Seidenari C, Saccani E, Romiti D, Ruggeri J, Pasquarella ML, Affanni P, Zoni R, Caruso L, Signorelli C, Gobbi G, Costantino C, Veronesi L. ["Activate your Wait" project : pilot study carried out at a thermal centre]. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:146-149. [PMID: 32275280 PMCID: PMC7975901 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
“Activate your wait” project: pilot study carried out at a thermal centre: Physical activity is recognised as a major health determinant, with positive effects on health, environmental sustainability and economy. National surveillance data show that one out of three Italians - adult and elderly alike - declares to be sedentary, with a progressively increasing trend. From the urgent need to implement strategies to promote physical activity the “Activate your Wait” (“Attiva l’Attesa”) project was born, aimed at transforming the waiting pauses during day to day life into opportunities to perform simple stretching and active mobilization exercises. The pilot study was carried out at the Terme S. Egidio, Suio Terme Castelforte (Latina). The results of the questionnaire distributed in the pre-intervention phase, aimed at assessing the users’ interest in the project and physical activity in general, are reported. The questionnaire was administrated in the waiting rooms in September 2018 and September 2019. A total of 129 subjects responded to the questionnaire: 43% declared themselves sedentary, 73% reported willingness to perform simple physical exercises while waiting, and 76% believed that physical activity during waiting moments could have a positive impact on health. The project’s subsequent goal is to identify suitable exercises to be proposed during the intervention period, which can be easily reproduced independently by users in their everyday life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Deanna Rossi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
| | | | | | | | | | - Elisa Saccani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
| | - Davide Romiti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
| | - Janis Ruggeri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
| | | | | | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
| | - Luca Caruso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
| | | | - Giuliana Gobbi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
| | | | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma;.
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25
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Zoni R, Capobianco E, Viani I, Colucci ME, Mezzetta S, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Di Fonzo D, Albertini R, Pasquarella C. [Fungal contamination in a University building]. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:150-153. [PMID: 32275281 PMCID: PMC7975915 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Fungal contamination in a University building.
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26
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Colucci ME, Affanni P, Cantarelli A, Caruso L, Bracchi MT, Capobianco E, Zoni R, Paini G, Odone A, Mohieldin Mahgoub Ibrahim MM, Veronesi L. Influenza vaccine effectiveness in children: a retrospective study on eight post-pandemic seasons with trivalent inactivated vaccine. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:63-70. [PMID: 32275269 PMCID: PMC7975907 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim of the work: The global burden of disease attributable to seasonal influenza virus in children is difficult to quantify. Children with chronic medical conditions and healthy children may experience severe or fatal complications. Aim of the study was to estimate the influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) in a cohort of outpatient children. Methods: From 2010 to 2018, a Pediatrician of Parma from the InfluNet network of Emilia-Romagna Region, performed nasal/throat swabs on every child with Influenza-like illness at least 14 days from the vaccination with trivalent vaccine. VE estimates against influenza season, virus type and subtype and age group were evaluated using a test-negative design. Results: 2,480 swabs were performed. The 57.6% of the analyzed swabs were positive for influenza viruses. Type A (57%) and type B viruses (43%) co-circulated. The 37.1% of type A viruses belonged to subtype A(H3N2), 19.4% to subtype A(H1N1)pdm09. The subtype A(H3N2) was prevalent among children up to 23 months (42.4%) while the type B in the 2-4 (40.7%) and 5-16 year old age groups (49.4%). Overall, 19.9% of the children were vaccinated. The highest prevalence of vaccinated subjects was found in children aged 5-16 (30.5%). The VE against subtype A(H1N1)pdm09 was 63% (95%CI 42.6-76.0), against type B 27.5% (95%CI 7.9-42.9) and against subtype A(H3N2) -14.3% (95%CI - 46.0-10.7). Conclusions: Our findings represent a useful contribution to the ongoing debate about the appropriateness of including influenza vaccination for healthy children, 6 months and older, in the updating National Vaccine Prevention Plan (PNPV).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | | | - Luca Caruso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | | | | | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Giulia Paini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
| | - Anna Odone
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan.
| | | | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma.
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27
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Veronesi L, Colucci ME, Napoli C, Castiglia P, Liguori G, Torre I, Righi E, Farruggia P, Tesauro M, Montagna MT, Gallè F, Masia MD, Di Onofrio V, Caggiano G, Tinteri C, Panico M, Pennino F, Cannova L, Pasquarella C. Air microbial contamination in dental clinics: comparison between active and passive methods. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:165-167. [PMID: 32275284 PMCID: PMC7975899 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between the microbial air contamination values obtained by active sampling (colony-forming units per cubic metre, CFU/m3) and by passive sampling (Index of microbial air contamination, IMA) and to calculate the corresponding equations. Air sampling was performed in ten dental clinics (DC), before (T0), during (T1) and after (T2) the clinical activity, for five consecutive days, once a month for a period of three months, for a total of 450 air samplings. The correlation was evaluated using the Spearman test, and a p value below 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A statistically significant correlation was found considering both the results obtained from the total observations and from the single sampling times, T0, T1 and T2. Different correlation patterns were observed stratifying by DC. Both methods were able to evaluate the microbial air quality and highlight critical situations; therefore, both can be used with this aim. However, in particular during the activity, passive sampling resulted more sensitive, and for its simplicity, economy and standardization by IMA, as suggested by several authors, can be suggested for routine monitoring.
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Affanni P, Colucci ME, Capobianco E, Bracchi MT, Zoni R, Viani I, Caruso L, Carlone L, Arcuri C, Veronesi L. Immunity status against tetanus in young migrants: a seroprevalence study. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:77-84. [PMID: 32275271 PMCID: PMC7975914 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK Thanks to the highly effective vaccine, tetanus became sporadic in high-income countries with well-established primary childhood immunization programs, but it is common in low-income countries. The migrants, leaving countries with poor immunization programs or where vaccinations have been interrupted, may represent a new risk group for tetanus in host countries. A seroprevalence study was conducted to estimate the immunological status against tetanus in young migrants without vaccination documentation. METHODS After a careful assessment by vaccination services of the Local Health Authority, all migrants recently arrived in Italy were included in the serosurvey. Titers of anti-tetanus toxoid were measured using a commercial ELISA kit. Subjects were stratified by age and by WHO region. Antibody titers <0.10 IU/ml were considered to be seronegative, between 0.10 and 1.00 IU/ml as intermediate protection, and >1.00 IU/ml high protection. RESULTS From January 2004 to December 2019, 2,326 blood samples were collected. Mean age was 13.9 years with no differences between WHO regions. The percentage of the subjects without protective antibodies was 22.3%, with an intermediate level was 45.2%, with high titer was 32.5%. Among migrant coming from African and Eastern Mediterranean WHO regions, the highest percentages of seronegative titers and, at the same time, the low percentages of high protective levels were found. Titers decreased with age. CONCLUSIONS The significant proportion of seronegative migrants and the decrease of protective titers increasing age, confirm the importance of the evaluation of the immunological status to employ the appropriate vaccination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Isabella Viani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Luca Caruso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Carlo Arcuri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
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Signorelli C, Priori M, Odone A, Vezzosi L, Colucci ME, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Maio T. [New challenges in vaccination policies: the role of General Practitioners]. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:135-140. [PMID: 32275278 PMCID: PMC7975910 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
New challenges in vaccination policies: the role of General Practitioners. The phenomenon of “Vaccine Hesintacy” and the consequent decrease in vaccination coverage with the re-ignition of some epidemic outbreaks has led Italian national and regional authorities to set a new vaccination plan (PNPV 2017-19) and even coercive measures such as the the Law n.119/2017. In addition, there have been initiatives by scientific societies also in order to increase involvement of professionals in information and education campaigns. Among the professional figures involved, the general practitioners represents the starting point from which to regain the citizen’s trust. This article assesses their important role in the implementation of vaccination policies in Italy by identifying the essential points of the campaigns carried out on their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Signorelli
- School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy. Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | | | - Anna Odone
- School of Medicine, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
| | | | | | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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Viani I, Colucci ME, Pergreffi M, Rossi D, Veronesi L, Bizzarro A, Capobianco E, Affanni P, Zoni R, Saccani E, Albertini R, Pasquarella C. Passive air sampling: the use of the index of microbial air contamination. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:92-105. [PMID: 32275273 PMCID: PMC7975895 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Bioaerosol plays an important role in human life with potentially infectious, allergic and toxic effects. Active and passive methods can be used to assess microbial air contamination, but so far there is not a unanimous consensus regarding the indications about methods to be used and how to interpret the results. The passive method has been standardized by the Index of Microbial Air contamination (IMA). Classes of contamination and maximum acceptable levels of IMA have been proposed, related to different infection or contamination risks. The aim of this study was to provide information about the use of the passive sampling method, with reference to the IMA standard. Methods: We searched PubMed and Scopus for articles published until January 2020 reporting the citation of the article by Pasquarella et al. “The index of microbial air contamination. J Hosp Infect 2000”. Only studies in English language where the IMA standard was applied were considered. Studies regarding healthcare settings were excluded. Results: 27 studies were analyzed; 12 were performed in Europe, 8 in Asia, 5 in Africa, 2 in America. Cultural heritage sites, educational buildings and food industries were the most common indoor monitored environments; in 8 studies outdoor air was monitored. Conclusions: This review has provided a picture of the application of standard IMA in different geographic areas and different environments at risk of airborne infection/contamination. The analysis of the results obtained, together with a wider collection of data, will provide a useful contribution towards the definition of reference limits for the various types of environments to implement targeted preventive measures.
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Palandri L, Morgado M, Colucci ME, Affanni P, Zoni R, Mezzetta S, Bizzarro A, Veronesi L. Reorganization of Active Surveillance of Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) in Emilia-Romagna, Italy: a two-step Public Health intervention. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:85-91. [PMID: 32275272 PMCID: PMC7975913 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK The International Health Regulations Emergency Committee declared in 2014 that poliovirus circulation is a public health emergency of international concern. In 2017 and 2018 Italy was classified at intermediate risk of poliovirus reintroduction based on suboptimal poliovirus surveillance. Acute flaccid paralysis active surveillance is the gold standard in the polio eradication process. The aims of this study were to investigate the causes of reduced acute flaccid paralysis case reporting in Emilia-Romagna in the last few years (step 1) and to study a public health intervention to restore an adequate level of acute flaccid paralysis surveillance in that region (step 2). METHODS In the first step a context analysis was performed by analysing the 2015-2017 Hospital Discharge Registers in Emilia-Romagna with the ICD-9-CM differential diagnosis codes for acute flaccid paralysis. Data from context analysis was then used to plan a new regional collaborative network of acute flaccid paralysis active surveillance. RESULTS The active surveillance network was, at the end of the study, composed by 49 doctors from both hospital administrations and clinical wards from 4 University Hospitals and 7 Local Health Authorities throughout the Region. In 15 months, 7 acute flaccid paralysis cases have been reported; 85,7% received a full clinical and virological investigation and 83,3% completed the 60 day's follow-up. The mean response to each e-mail was 48,5% (SD 7,5%). CONCLUSIONS In 2019, the Emilia-Romagna's active surveillance system reached the sensitivity, completeness of case investigation and follow-up required to achieve the minimum levels for certification standard surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Palandri
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Mariana Morgado
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Maria Eugenia Colucci
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy. Reference Centre for Polio and AFP surveillance in Emilia-Romagna.
| | - Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy. Reference Centre for Polio and AFP surveillance in Emilia-Romagna.
| | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy. Reference Centre for Polio and AFP surveillance in Emilia-Romagna.
| | - Sandra Mezzetta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy. Reference Centre for Polio and AFP surveillance in Emilia-Romagna.
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Presta V, Galuppo L, Mirandola P, Galli D, Pozzi G, Zoni R, Capici S, Colucci ME, Veronesi L, Ambrosini L, Gobbi G, Vitale M, Pasquarella C. One-shoulder carrying school backpack strongly affects gait swing phase and pelvic tilt: a case study. Acta Biomed 2020; 91:168-170. [PMID: 32275285 PMCID: PMC7975905 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v91i3-s.9435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The use of backpacks is common to both adults and children and often leads to the onset of musculoskeletal discomforts. Although a large number of studies have focused on the optimal load for children schoolbags, there is no general consensus. Here we report a 13-yr old girl case study, showing the impact of weight and wearing the school backpack on gait parameters. The variation of gait parameters and pelvis angles in different conditions were studied: without backpack (CTRL), or with backpack at 10% Body Weight (10BW), 15% BW (15BW) and 20% BW (20BW), carried “on both shoulders” (2S), “on one shoulder” (1S), or “with one hand” (1H). Swing phase was comparably modified by 2S/20BW and 1S/10BW conditions, suggesting that a lower backpack weight was sufficient to induce gait alterations when carried in asymmetrical conditions. Pelvic tilt, which was preserved by a two-shoulders distributed 10% BW load (2S/10BW), was strongly reduced in asymmetrical condition (1S/10BW), suggesting that a low weight carried on a single shoulder generates postural modifications including reduction of pelvic tilting, which is known to be associated to low back pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Galuppo
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma.
| | | | - Daniela Galli
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma.
| | - Giulia Pozzi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma.
| | - Roberta Zoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma.
| | - Silvia Capici
- Presidio di Riabilitazione Specialistica Ambulatoriale "terapia fisica e riabilitazione", Roma.
| | | | - Licia Veronesi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma.
| | - Luca Ambrosini
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma.
| | - Giuliana Gobbi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirugia, Università di Parma.
| | - Marco Vitale
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Parma; Laboratorio Analisi del Movimento (LAM), AOU Parma.
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Bersanelli M, Scala S, Affanni P, Veronesi L, Colucci ME, Banna GL, Cortellini A, Liotta F. Immunological insights on influenza infection and vaccination during immune checkpoint blockade in cancer patients. Immunotherapy 2020; 12:105-110. [PMID: 32046555 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2019-0200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Bersanelli
- University Hospital of Parma, Medical Oncology Unit, Parma, Italy.,University of Parma, Medicine & Surgery Department, Parma, Italy
| | - Stefania Scala
- Functional Genomics, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale" IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Affanni
- University of Parma, Medicine & Surgery Department, Parma, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- University of Parma, Medicine & Surgery Department, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Alessio Cortellini
- Medical Oncology Unit, St Salvatore Hospital, Medical Oncology Unit, L'Aquila, Italy.,St. Salvatore Hospital, University of L'Aquila, Department of Biotechnological & Applied Clinical Sciences, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesco Liotta
- Department of Experimental & Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Fontana S, Fiore S, Buttinelli G, Amato C, Veronesi L, Zoni R, Triassi M, Pennino F, Giammanco GM, De Grazia S, Cicala A, Siragusa A, Gamper S, Spertini S, Castiglia P, Cossu A, Germinario C, Larocca AMV, Stefanelli P. Molecular Characterization of Coxsackievirus B5 Isolates from Sewage, Italy 2016-2017. Food Environ Virol 2019; 11:440-445. [PMID: 31346976 PMCID: PMC6848032 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-019-09395-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Hereby, the partial Viral Protein 1 sequences of Coxsackievirus B5 (CV-B5) from sewage samples, collected in Italy from 2016 to 2017, were compared with those available in GenBank from clinical samples. Phylogenetic analysis highlighted: (I) the predominant circulation of CV-B5 genogroup B in Italy, and (II) the presence of two new sub-genogroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Fontana
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Fiore
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Buttinelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Amato
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Maria Triassi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Pennino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Maurizio Giammanco
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care and Internal Medicine 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona De Grazia
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care and Internal Medicine 'G. D'Alessandro', University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | | | - Sabine Gamper
- Comprensorio Sanitario di Bolzano, Servizio Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Silvia Spertini
- Comprensorio Sanitario di Bolzano, Servizio Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Paolo Castiglia
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Cossu
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cinzia Germinario
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | | | - Paola Stefanelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità, ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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Riccò M, Vezzosi L, Balzarini F, Mezzoiuso AG, Veronesi L, Colucci ME, Signorelli C. Misconceptions and lack of vaccine confidence: even First Responders are not spared. Eur J Public Health 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckz185.625] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
First Responders (FR) are front-line healthcare workers potentially exposed to different infectious agents. Characterizing their knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) towards immunizations has therefore the potential to significantly improve occupational health and safety.
Methods
A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was performed during October 2018, collecting a convenience sample among FR from the Parma Province. Participants were inquired on 3 recommended vaccinations (i.e. seasonal influenza vaccine, SIV; measles vaccine, MeV; pertussis vaccine, Pa) and for meningococcal vaccines (MEN, not officially recommended in FR). Knowledge status (KS) and Risk Perception (RP) were assessed as percent values. Multivariate odds ratios (mOR) for factors associated with vaccination status were calculated by means of a binary logistic regression analysis.
Results
A total of 161 questionnaires were retrieved (mean age 45.1±14.1 years; seniority 10.8 ± 8.6 years). Internal consistency was good (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.894). KS was unsatisfying (46.5% ± 32.4) with uncertainties on the recommendations for MeV and MEN (39.1% and 34.2% incorrect answers). The majority of respondents were favorable towards MEN (89.4%), MeV (87.5%), Pa (83.0%), while 55.3% exhibited a favorable attitude for SIV, and 28.0% had received SIV 2018 (self-reported lifetime status for MEN 26.1%, MeV 42.2%, Pa 34.8%). RP was unsatisfying, particularly for SIV (33.9% ± 18.4). Interestingly enough, neither KS nor RP were associated with vaccination rates, being the main predictor for SIV 2018 a seniority ≥ 10 years (mOR 3.26, 95%CI 1.35-7.91), and higher educational achievements for both Pa (mOR 3.27, 95%CI 1.29-8.30) and MeV (mOR 2.69, 95%CI 1.09-6.65).
Conclusions
Reasons for vaccination gaps in FR apparently do not find their roots only in FRs’ incomplete KS or RP. However, the very low vaccination rates for SIV, MeV and Pa recommends stronger and more appropriate information campaigns.
Key messages
Main drivers of vaccination status in First Responders are not solely their knowledge status or risk perception. Achieving better vaccination rates in First Responders requires the understanding of a complex interplay of individual factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Riccò
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Azienda USL di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - L Vezzosi
- Direzione Sanitaria, ASST di Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - F Balzarini
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Università San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - A G Mezzoiuso
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Università San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Dipartimento Medico Chirurgico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - M E Colucci
- Dipartimento Medico Chirurgico, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C Signorelli
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Università San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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Veronesi L, Giudice L, Agodi A, Arrigoni C, Baldovin T, Barchitta M, Benedetti T, Caggiano G, Cannizzaro SG, De Giglio O, D'Errico M, Destri S, Fiorentini R, Gentile L, Mannone A, Mascipinto S, Mercuri M, Montagna MT, Novati R, Oriani R, Ortolani S, Pennino F, Ripabelli G, Rossini A, Sammarco ML, Sodano L, Squeri R, Tamarri F, Tamburro M, Torre I, Troiani S, Pasquarella C. A multicentre study on epidemiology and prevention of needle stick injuries among students of nursing schools. Ann Ig 2019; 30:99-110. [PMID: 30374515 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2018.2254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Among the health professions with a long period of training, the students of the Nursing Bachelor's Degree are the most exposed to biological risk resulting from accidents, in particular with needles and cutting edges. The aim of the study was to estimate the frequency and the circumstances for the occurrence of needle stick injuries, as a knowledge base for targeted prevention interventions. METHODS The study was carried out between May and July 2017 in 11 Universities in Italy and 1 in Albania (associated with the "Tor Vergata" University of Rome). An anonymous semi-structured questionnaire was proposed to 1st (second semester), 2nd and 3rd year students of Nursing Bachelor's Degree. RESULTS A total of 2742 questionnaires were collected. The average age of participants was 22.9 years (median 22, range 19-60 years), 73% of whom were females. A total of 381 injuries were reported. Three hundred and sixteen students (11.8%) underwent at least 1 injury (12.7% among females, 9.7% among males); 41 students declared two or more injuries; four students did not report the number of injuries occurred. The first injury occurred, as an average, 17 days after the start of the internship (median 15 days) and, in 25% of the cases, during the first 9 days. The highest percentage of accidents occurred during the first internship (25.3% of the total) and decreased with the progress of the training path. The injuries occurred in 38% of cases during drug preparation, 24% when disposing of sharp devices, 15% while re-capping needles, 13% during blood sampling and 10% in other circumstances. In 51.2% of cases, the needle was not sterile. Among the nursing students who suffered a needle stick injury, 58.1% declared that they had performed the post-exposure prophylaxis. 96% of students stated to be vaccinated against Hepatitis B virus. Amongst the students who had their serological status checked (74%), 18% stated the antibody titre was not protective. 49.8% of students answered to have been trained in advance on the correct procedures to avoid needle stick and cutting edges injuries in each clinical ward attended, 41.2% referred that this occurred only in some wards and 10% in no ward at all. CONCLUSION The results of this study show a high percentage of needle stick injuries in students of the Nursing Bachelor's Degree. Therefore, there is a need for careful reflection on the most effective methods of targeted training acquisition of knowledge, skills and behavioural models useful for the exercise of the profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - L Giudice
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - A Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies 'GF Ingrassia', University of Catania, Italy
| | - C Arrigoni
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - T Baldovin
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, University of Padua, Italy
| | - M Barchitta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies 'GF Ingrassia', University of Catania, Italy
| | - T Benedetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polithecnical University, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Caggiano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - S G Cannizzaro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polithecnical University, Ancona, Italy
| | - O De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - M D'Errico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polithecnical University, Ancona, Italy
| | - S Destri
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, University of Padua, Italy
| | - R Fiorentini
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polithecnical University, Ancona, Italy
| | - L Gentile
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Italy
| | - A Mannone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - S Mascipinto
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - M Mercuri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polithecnical University, Ancona, Italy
| | - M T Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - S Ortolani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polithecnical University, Ancona, Italy
| | - F Pennino
- Department of Public Health, University "Federico II" of Naples, Italy
| | - G Ripabelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - A Rossini
- Hospital Santa Lucia, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - M L Sammarco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - L Sodano
- Catholic University "Our Lady of Good Counsel", Tirana-Elbasan, Albania
| | - R Squeri
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphological Imaging, University of Messina, Italy
| | - F Tamarri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
| | - M Tamburro
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - I Torre
- Department of Public Health, University "Federico II" of Naples, Italy
| | - S Troiani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polithecnical University, Ancona, Italy
| | - C Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy
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Montagna MT, Mascipinto S, Pousis C, Bianchi FP, Caggiano G, Carpagnano LF, De Giglio O, Barbuti G, Auxilia F, Destrebecq A, Castaldi S, Baldovin T, Bargellini A, Righi E, Boccia G, Santoro E, Casini B, Baggiani A, Novati R, Oriani R, Odone A, Mezzoiuso AG, Orsi GB, Napoli C, Pasquarella C, Veronesi L, Ripabelli G, Sammarco ML, Rossini A, Squeri R, Laganà P, Antonuccio GM, Genovese C, Tardivo S, Torre I, Alfano R, Pennino F, Torregrossa MV, Barchitta M, Agodi A. Knowledge, experiences, and attitudes toward Mantoux test among medical and health professional students in Italy: a cross-sectional study. Ann Ig 2019; 30:86-98. [PMID: 30374514 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2018.2253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization's Action Framework for tuberculosis elimination in low-tuberculosis incidence countries includes the screening for active and latent tuberculosis in selected high-risk groups, including health care workers. In this context, medical and health profession students, exposed to nosocomial tuberculosis transmission during training and clinical rotations, are target populations for tuberculosis screening. No updated data are available on tuberculosis screening practice and knowledge of medical and health profession students in Italy. METHODS Within the activities Italian Study Group on Hospital Hygiene of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine and Public Health, we carried out a multicentre cross-sectional study to assess knowledge, attitude and practices on tuberculosis prevention and control among Medical, Dentistry, Nursing and other health professions' students. Students were enrolled in the study on a voluntary basis and were administered a previously piloted structured questionnaire. Logistic regression models were applied to explore knowledge on tuberculosis prevention by selected socio-demographic variables and University-based tuberculosis prevention practice. RESULTS Students of seventeen Universities across Italy participated in the study, and 58.2% of them received compulsory tuberculin skin test either at enrollment or while attending clinical practice. A total of 5,209 students filled the questionnaire. 37.7% were medicine and dentistry students (Group 1), 44.9% were nursing students (Group 2) and 17.4% were other health professions' students (Group 3). Age and gender had different distributions by groups, as well as knowledge and practice on tuberculin skin test. 84.4% of the study population (95% CI = 83.3-85.3) was aware of the existence of the tuberculin skin test, 74.4% (95% CI = 73.2-75.6) knew what is the first-level screening test for latent tuberculosis and only 22.5% (95% CI = 21.4-23.6) knew how to proceed after a positive tuberculin skin test result. Overall, knowledge on tuberculosis prevention was higher in Group 2 and lower Group 3, as compared to Group 1. CONCLUSION In Italy, the knowledge on tuberculosis screening among University students is generally good. To reduce some of the criticalities found among the different study courses, it would be appropriate to harmonize both the regulations on tuberculosis screening practices for admission to University courses, and the educational activities on the topic of tuberculosis, to be extended to all workers involved in health care setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - S Mascipinto
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - C Pousis
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - F P Bianchi
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - G Caggiano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - L F Carpagnano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - O De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - G Barbuti
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - F Auxilia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - A Destrebecq
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - S Castaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - T Baldovin
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, Padova, Italy
| | - A Bargellini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - E Righi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - G Boccia
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - E Santoro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - B Casini
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S. - Hygiene and Epidemiology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Baggiani
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S. - Hygiene and Epidemiology Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - R Novati
- Medical Direction, Aosta Regional Hospital, Aosta, Italy
| | - R Oriani
- Medical Direction, Aosta Regional Hospital, Aosta, Italy
| | - A Odone
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - A G Mezzoiuso
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - G B Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - G Ripabelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - M L Sammarco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - A Rossini
- Fondazione Santa Lucia, Institute for Research and Health Care, IRCCS, University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - R Squeri
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - P Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G M Antonuccio
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - C Genovese
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - S Tardivo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - I Torre
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - R Alfano
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - F Pennino
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - M V Torregrossa
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - M Barchitta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies 'GF Ingrassia', University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - A Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies 'GF Ingrassia', University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Angelino D, Martina A, Rosi A, Veronesi L, Antonini M, Mennella I, Vitaglione P, Grioni S, Brighenti F, Zavaroni I, Fares C, Torriani S, Pellegrini N. Glucose- and Lipid-Related Biomarkers Are Affected in Healthy Obese or Hyperglycemic Adults Consuming a Whole-Grain Pasta Enriched in Prebiotics and Probiotics: A 12-Week Randomized Controlled Trial. J Nutr 2019; 149:1714-1723. [PMID: 31162597 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxz071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [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: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synbiotic foods, which combine the action of prebiotics and probiotics along the gastrointestinal tract, can affect inflammatory and glucose-related markers. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the effects on inflammatory and glycemia-related markers of a whole-grain pasta containing barley β-glucans and Bacillus coagulans BC30, 6086 in healthy overweight or obese volunteers. METHODS A single-blind, parallel, randomized, placebo-controlled dietary intervention study was carried out. Forty-one healthy sedentary overweight (body mass index [BMI] 25-29.9 kg/m2) and obese (BMI ≥30) volunteers, aged 30-65 y and low consumers of fruit and vegetables, ate 1 serving/d of whole-grain control (CTR) or innovative (INN) pasta for 12 wk and maintained their habitual diets. Biological samples were collected at baseline and every 4 wk for primary (plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP] and fasting plasma lipid profile) and secondary outcomes (glycemia-related markers, blood pressure, fecal microbiota composition, and body weight). Between (CTR compared with INN) and within (among weeks) group differences were tested for the whole population and for subgroups stratified by baseline values of BMI (≥30) and glycemia (≥100 mg/dL). RESULTS INN or CTR pasta consumption had no effect on primary and secondary outcomes over time, except for a significant increase in plasma γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) after 12 wk of CTR pasta consumption. Comparisons between intervention groups revealed differences only at 12 wk: plasma GGT was higher in the CTR group; plasma hs-CRP, plasma LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio, and Bifidobacterium spp. were lower in the INN subgroup of obese volunteers; plasma resistin was lower and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii abundance was higher in the INN subgroup of hyperglycemic volunteers. CONCLUSIONS A daily serving of a synbiotic whole-grain pasta had limited effects on primary and secondary outcomes in the entire group of volunteers but affected glycemia- and lipid-related markers and resistin in a subgroup of healthy obese or hyperglycemic volunteers. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02236533.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessia Martina
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alice Rosi
- Human Nutrition Unit, Department of Food and Drugs
| | | | - Monica Antonini
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Ilario Mennella
- Department of Agricultural and Food Science, University of Naples "Federico II", Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Vitaglione
- Department of Agricultural and Food Science, University of Naples "Federico II", Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Grioni
- Epidemiology and Prevention Unit, Fondazione IRCSS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Ivana Zavaroni
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Clara Fares
- Council for Agricultural Research and Economics-Centre for Cereal Research and Industrial Crops, Foggia, Italy
| | - Sandra Torriani
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Colucci ME, Veronesi L, Bracchi MT, Zoni R, Caruso L, Capobianco E, Rossi D, Bizzarro A, Cantarelli A, Affanni P. On field vaccine effectiveness in three periods of 2018/2019 influenza season in Emilia-Romagna Region. Acta Biomed 2019; 90:21-27. [PMID: 31517886 PMCID: PMC7233652 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v90i9-s.8699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim of the work: Epidemic influenza is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in people at risk. The vaccine reduces complications, hospitalization and mortality excess, as well as health care and social costs. Aim of the study was to estimate the influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) in Emilia-Romagna Region during the 2018/2019 season. Methods: Within the context of virological surveillance conducted at the Regional Reference Laboratory of Parma, nasal/throat swabs were performed by sentinel practitioners and clinicians, on patients with ILI (Influenza-like illness). VE estimates, overall and against subtype A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2), were evaluated in three periods of the season, using a test-negative case-control design. Results: From November 2018 to April 2019, 2,230 specimens were analyzed: 1,674 (75.1%) performed by clinicians and 556 (24.9%) by sentinel practitioners of the regional network. The season was characterized by the predominant circulation of influenza type A viruses: 57.4% belonged to subtype A(H3N2), 41.2% to subtype A(H1N1)pdm09. 23.5% of patients was vaccinated against influenza with quadrivalent or adjuvate vaccine. The overall VE was -5% (95% CI -33% - 18%) with a decreasing trend during the season. The overall VE against subtype A(H1N1)pdm09 was 39% (95% CI 11% - 58%) and remained stable during the season. The overall VE against subtype A(H3N2) was -43% (95% CI -89% - -9%), and showed an important decreasing trend. Conclusions: The possibility to make accurate and continuous VE estimates during the season will help to better define the composition of the vaccine for the following season. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Veronesi L, Colucci ME, Capobianco E, Bracchi MT, Zoni R, Palandri L, Affanni P. Immunity status against poliomyelitis in young migrants: a seroprevalence study. Acta Biomed 2019; 90:28-34. [PMID: 31517887 PMCID: PMC7233651 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v90i9-s.8700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background and aim of the work: Recent seroprevalence studies in different population groups have shown low antibody titers against poliomyelitis, especially in young adults. This, together with the reduction of vaccination rates, could favor the reintroduction of poliovirus in long-time polio-free countries. Within the Surveillance system of acute flaccid paralysis, a prevalence study was conducted to estimate the immunological status associated with poliomyelitis in young migrants. Methods: Local Health Authority collected serum samples in young migrants, without vaccination documentation. Antibodies levels were assessed with a long incubation neutralization assay. Subjects were stratified by age and by WHO region. Seroprotection was defined by a titer equal or above 1:8 and titers > 1:2 were log-transformed and evaluated as geometric mean titers (GMTs). Results: From January 2004 to August 2017, 1138 blood samples were collected. Mean age was 13.3 years with no differences between WHO regions. The percentage of antibody titers below 1:8 was 6.0% versus poliovirus 1 (PV1), 7.7% versus poliovirus 2 (PV2) and 15% versus poliovirus 3 (PV3). The GMTs were 45.5, 29.5 and 20 towards PV1, PV2 and PV3 respectively. In each WHO region, the GMTs towards PV3 were consistently the lowest, and the Europeans showed the lowest GMTs both towards PV2 and PV3 (27.5 and 15.3 respectively). GMTs decreased with age. Conclusion: The low GMTs and the clear tendency to decrease with increasing age of the subjects, especially against to PV1, confirm the framework of attention that polio is receiving at national and international level. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Affanni P, Colucci ME, Bracchi MT, Capobianco E, Zoni R, Caruso L, Castrucci MR, Puzelli S, Cantarelli A, Veronesi L. Virological Surveillance of Influenza in the eight epidemic seasons after the 2009 pandemic in Emilia-Romagna (Northern Italy). Acta Biomed 2019; 90:35-44. [PMID: 31517888 PMCID: PMC7233653 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v90i9-s.8722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK Influenza virological surveillance is essential for monitoring the evolution of influenza viruses (IVs) as well as for annual updating of the vaccine composition. The aim of this study is to analyse IVs circulation in Emilia-Romagna during the eight epidemic seasons after the 2009 pandemic and to evaluate their match with seasonal vaccine strains. METHODS A total of 7882 respiratory specimens from patients with influenza-like illness (ILI), were collected by regional sentinel practitioners and hospital physicians. Viral investigations were conducted by rRT-PCR assay. Genetic characterization was performed for a spatial-temporal representative number of influenza laboratory-confirmed specimens. RESULTS Influenza-positive samples per season ranged between 28.9% (2013-2014) and 66.8% (2012-2013). Co-circulation of IVs type A and type B was observed in all seasons, although with a different intensity. In all seasons, the highest number of positive samples was recorded in younger patients aged 5-14 years with relative frequencies ranging from 40% in the 2013-2014 season and 78% in the 2012-2013 season. Since the 2009 pandemic, A/H1N1pdm09 IVs circulating were closely related to the vaccine strain A/California/7/2009. Antigenic mismatch between vaccine strain and A/H3N2 IVs was observed in the 2011-2012 and 2014-2015 seasons. During 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 seasons a complete or nearly complete mismatch between the predominant influenza B lineage of IVs type B circulating and vaccine B lineage occurred. CONCLUSIONS This analysis confirms the importance of the virological surveillance and highlights the need of a continuous monitoring of IVs circulation, to improve the most appropriate vaccination strategies. (www.actabiomedica.it).
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Affanni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
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Zoni R, Mezzetta S, Affanni P, Colucci ME, Fiore S, Fontana S, Bracchi M, Capobianco E, Veronesi L. Poliovirus and non-polio-enterovirus environmental surveillance in Parma within the "Global Polio Eradication Program" (GPEI). Acta Biomed 2019; 90:95-97. [PMID: 31517896 PMCID: PMC7233654 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v90i9-s.8702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Poliovirus and non-polio-enterovirus environmental surveillance in Parma within the “Global Polio Eradication Program” (GPEI) Background: Environmental surveillance of poliovirus plays an essential role in GPEI both for the detection of WTP and VDPV circulation in endemic areas and for monitoring their absence in polio-free countries. Methods: Since 2005 to 2018, in Parma, 642 wastewater samples were collected from the two wastewater treatment plants and analyzed according to the WHO Guidelines. All isolates supposed being poliovirus were sent to ISS reference laboratory for molecular characterization while NPEV only refer to samples up to 2016. Results: Positivity was obtained in 68% of samples without significant difference between the two treatment plants. Six polioviruses (1.4%) were detected, all characterized as Sabin-like: 4 of them (66.7%) were type 3 and 2 (33.3%) type 1. Coxsackieviruses B mainly recurred among NPEV (85%) while residual 15% was Echoviruses. B4 was the most frequent Coxsackie serotype isolated (31%) while, among Echovirus, Echo 7 and Echo 11 prevail (both 23%). Conclusion: As OPV isn’t used in Italy since 2002, recovery of Sabin-like polioviruses indicates the possibility of poliovirus reintroduction, considering also the important exposure to migratory flows. Finally, monitoring the environmental circulation of NPEV, could compensate for the lack of a surveillance system of the infections they cause. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery - University of Parma.
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Riccò M, Bragazzi NL, Vezzosi L, Balzarini F, Colucci ME, Veronesi L. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Tick-Borne Human Diseases and Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine among Farmers from North-Eastern Italy (2017). J Agromedicine 2019; 25:73-85. [PMID: 31456505 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2019.1659204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Tick-borne diseases (T-BD) represent a potential health threat for outdoor workers in endemic areas, such as the Autonomous Province of Trento (APT). We conducted a questionnaire-based survey to assess T-BD knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices among APT farmers, specifically focusing on the use of protective habits and the uptake of the tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine.Methods: A convenience sample of 106 farmers (all males, mean age 47.3 ± 13.6 years) attending pesticide training courses (12/2016-03/2017) completed the anonymous survey. Binary regression analysis, calculations of multivariate odds ratios (mOR) and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess knowledge, attitudes, and risk perceptions as predictors of preventive measures.Results: Though general understanding of T-BD was fairly low, the majority of the participants perceived TBE infection as a frequent (73.6%) and severe disease (61.3%). Overall, 43.3% of participants knew a TBE vaccine was available, and 24.5% had been vaccinated. Protective habits were reported by 53.8% of respondents, with self-checks for tick bites particularly low at 2.8% of participants. Better knowledge of T-BD and favorable attitudes toward vaccinations were associated with TBE immunization (mOR 4.708; 95%CI 1.273-17.409 and mOR 3.555; 95%CI 1.175-10.760, respectively), while previous history of tick bite and any interaction with T-BD significantly predicted adherence to protective measures (mOR 4.458; 95%CI 1.808-10.991, and mOR 9.433; 95%CI 1.127-78.973, respectively).Conclusions: Adherence to preventive measures (TBE vaccine) and protective habits was unsatisfactory in our sampled group, being a possible consequence of significant knowledge gaps. Public health communication on T-BD in farmers should, therefore, target understanding of health issues and appropriate preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Riccò
- Department of Public Health, AUSL- IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Service for Health and Safety in the Workplace, Reggio Emilia (RE), Italy.,Autonomous Province of Trento Department of Prevention, Provincial Agency for Health Services (APSS), Operative Unit for Health and Safety in the Workplaces, Trento, Italy
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Postgraduate School of Public Health, Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luigi Vezzosi
- Azienda Sanitaria dell'Alto Adige -Comprensorio di Brunico, Servizio di Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Brunico, BZ
| | | | | | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Delogu R, Battistone A, Buttinelli G, Fiore S, Fontana S, Amato C, Cristiano K, Gamper S, Simeoni J, Frate R, Pellegrinelli L, Binda S, Veronesi L, Zoni R, Castiglia P, Cossu A, Triassi M, Pennino F, Germinario C, Balena V, Cicala A, Mercurio P, Fiore L, Pini C, Stefanelli P. Poliovirus and Other Enteroviruses from Environmental Surveillance in Italy, 2009-2015. Food Environ Virol 2018; 10:333-342. [PMID: 29948963 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-018-9350-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [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: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Within the initiatives for poliomyelitis eradication by WHO, Italy activated an environmental surveillance (ES) in 2005. ES complements clinical Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance for possible polio cases, detects poliovirus circulation in environmental sewage, and is used to monitor transmission in communities. In addition to polioviruses, the analyses comprised: (i) the monitoring of the presence of non-polio enteroviruses in sewage samples and (ii) the temporal and geographical distribution of the detected viruses. From 2009 to 2015, 2880 sewage samples were collected from eight cities participating in the surveillance. Overall, 1479 samples resulted positive for enteroviruses. No wild-type polioviruses were found, although four Sabin-like polioviruses were detected. The low degree of mutation found in the genomes of these four isolates suggests that these viruses have had a limited circulation in the population. All non-polio enteroviruses belonged to species B and the most frequent serotype was CV-B5, followed by CV-B4, E-11, E-6, E-7, CV-B3, and CV-B2. Variations in the frequency of different serotypes were also observed in different seasons and/or Italian areas. Environmental surveillance in Italy, as part of the 'WHO global polio eradication program', is a powerful tool to augment the polio surveillance and to investigate the silent circulation or the re-emergence of enteroviruses in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Delogu
- National Centre for the Control and the Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
- National Centre for the Control and the Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Andrea Battistone
- National Centre for the Control and the Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Buttinelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Fiore
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Fontana
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Concetta Amato
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Karen Cristiano
- National Centre for the Control and the Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabine Gamper
- Comprensorio Sanitario di Bolzano, Servizio Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Josef Simeoni
- Comprensorio Sanitario di Bolzano, Servizio Igiene e Sanità Pubblica, Bolzano, Italy
| | | | - Laura Pellegrinelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Binda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Roberta Zoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Paolo Castiglia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Cossu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Triassi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Pennino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Viviana Balena
- Hygiene Unit, Department DIMO, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Lucia Fiore
- National Centre for the Control and the Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Pini
- National Centre for the Control and the Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Stefanelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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Sao Miguel Morgado M, Odone A, Milicia GM, Valeriani F, Veronesi L, Liguori G, Fallace P, Savino G, Romano Spica V, Pasquarella C. Prevalence of doping and dietary supplements use in Europe. Eur J Public Health 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cky212.522] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - A Odone
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | | | - F Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - G Liguori
- Department of Movement and Wellbeing Sciences, University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - P Fallace
- Local Health Unit, Naples 2 Nord, Naples, Italy
| | - G Savino
- Regional Centre Anti-Doping Emilia-Romagna Region, Local Health Unit, Modena, Italy
| | - V Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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46
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Montagna MT, De Giglio O, Napoli C, Diella G, Rutigliano S, Agodi A, Auxilia F, Baldovin T, Bisetto F, Arnoldo L, Brusaferro S, Busetti M, Calagreti G, Casini B, Cristina ML, Di Luzio R, Fiorio M, Formoso M, Liguori G, Martini E, Molino A, Mondello P, Mura I, Novati R, Orsi GB, Patroni A, Poli A, Privitera G, Ripabelli G, Rocchetti A, Rose F, Sarti M, Savini S, Silvestri A, Sodano L, Spagnolo AM, Tardivo S, Teti V, Torregrossa MV, Torri E, Veronesi L, Zarrilli R, Pacifico C, Goglio A, Moro M, Pasquarella C. Control and prevention measures for legionellosis in hospitals: A cross-sectional survey in Italy. Environ Res 2018; 166:55-60. [PMID: 29864633 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Risk assessment, environmental monitoring, and the disinfection of water systems are the key elements in preventing legionellosis risk. The Italian Study Group of Hospital Hygiene of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine, and Public Health and the Italian Multidisciplinary Society for the Prevention of Health Care-Associated Infections carried out a national cross-sectional survey to investigate the measures taken to prevent and control legionellosis in Italian hospitals. A multiple-choice questionnaire was developed, comprising 71 questions regarding hospital location, general characteristics, clinical and environmental surveillance, and control and preventive measures for legionellosis in 2015. Overall, 739 hospitals were enrolled from February to June 2017, and 178 anonymous questionnaires were correctly completed and evaluated (response rate: 24.1%). The survey was conducted using the SurveyMonkey® platform, and the data were analyzed using Stata 12 software. Of the participating hospitals, 63.2% reported at least one case of legionellosis, of which 28.2% were of proven nosocomial origin. The highest case numbers were reported in the Northern Italy, in hospitals with a pavilion structure or cooling towers, and in hospitals with higher numbers of beds, wards and operating theaters. Laboratory diagnosis was performed using urinary antigen testing alone (31.9%), both urinary antigen testing and single antibody titer (17.8%), or with seroconversion also added (21.5%). Culture-based or molecular investigations were performed in 28.8% and 22.1% of the clinical specimens, respectively. The water systems were routinely tested for Legionella in 97.4% of the hospitals, 62% of which detected a positive result (> 1000 cfu/L). Legionella pneumophila serogroup 2-15 was the most frequently isolated species (58.4%). The most common control measures were the disinfection of the water system (73.7%), mostly through thermal shock (37.4%) and chlorine dioxide (34.4%), and the replacement (69.7%) or cleaning (70.4%) of faucets and showerheads. A dedicated multidisciplinary team was present in 52.8% of the hospitals, and 73% of the hospitals performed risk assessment. Targeted training courses were organized in 36.5% of the hospitals, involving nurses (30.7%), physicians (28.8%), biologists (21.5%), technicians (26.4%), and cleaners (11%). Control and prevention measures for legionellosis are present in Italian hospitals, but some critical aspects should be improved. More appropriate risk assessment is necessary, especially in large facilities with a high number of hospitalizations. Moreover, more sensitive diagnostic tests should be used, and dedicated training courses should be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy.
| | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical and S urgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Roma, Square A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Giusy Diella
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Serafina Rutigliano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies 'GF Ingrassia', University of Catania, Str. S. Sofia, 87, Comparto 10 Edificio C, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Auxilia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano, Str. Pascal 36, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Tatjana Baldovin
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, Str. Loredan, 18.35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Bisetto
- Presidio Ospedaliero di Camposampiero, AULss6 Euganea Str. P. Cosma 1, 35012 Camposampiero, PD, Italy
| | - Luca Arnoldo
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Str. Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Silvio Brusaferro
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Str. Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marina Busetti
- University Hospital ASUITS, Microbiology Unit, Strada di Fiume, 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Gioia Calagreti
- Hospital "Alto Tevere", AUSL Umbria 1, Città di Castello, PG, Italy
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S. - Hygiene and Epidemiology Unit, University of Pisa, Str. S. Zeno 35-39, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Cristina
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Str. A. Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Maurizio Formoso
- Hospital "Miulli", Str. 127 km 4.1, Santeramo-Acquaviva delle Fonti, BA, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University "Parthenope", Napoli, Italy
| | - Enrica Martini
- AOU "Ospedali Riuniti", Str. Conca, 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Molino
- Hospital "Madonna delle Grazie", Contrada Cattedra Ambulante s.nc. 75100 Matera, Italy
| | | | - Ida Mura
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Battista Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, Sapienza University of Roma, Roma, Italy
| | - Andrea Patroni
- ASST Valcamonica, Str. Manzoni 142, 25040 Esine, BS, Italy
| | - Anna Poli
- Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio", Str. Torre Galli 3, 50143 Firenze, Italy
| | - Gaetano Privitera
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S. - Hygiene and Epidemiology Unit, University of Pisa, Str. S. Zeno 35-39, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Ripabelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Andrea Rocchetti
- ASO "SS. Antonio, Biagio and C. Arrigo", Str. Venezia 17, 15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | | | - Mario Sarti
- Hospital "OCSAE", Str. Giardini 1355, Baggiovara, MO, Italy
| | - Sandra Savini
- AOU "Ospedali Riuniti", Str. Conca, 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Antonio Silvestri
- Hospital "San Camillo Forlanini", Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152 Roma, Italy
| | - Luisa Sodano
- Hospital "San Camillo Forlanini", Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152 Roma, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Spagnolo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Str. A. Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefano Tardivo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Str. Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | | | - Maria Valeria Torregrossa
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Str. Vespro, 133, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Emanuele Torri
- Department of Health ans Social Policy, Str. Gilli 4, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Str. Volturno 39, Parma, Italy
| | - Raffaele Zarrilli
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli "Federico II", Str. S. Pansini, 5, Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudia Pacifico
- Centre of Biostatistics for Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Moro
- Hospital "San Raffaele", Str. Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italy
| | - Cesira Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Str. Volturno 39, Parma, Italy
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47
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Cristina ML, Valeriani F, Casini B, Agodi A, D'Errico MM, Gianfranceschi G, Laganà P, Liguori G, Liguori R, Mucci N, Mura I, Pasquarella C, Piana A, Sotgiu G, Privitera G, Protano C, Quattrocchi A, Ripabelli G, Rossini A, Scaramucci E, Spagnolo AM, Tamburro M, Tardivo S, Veronesi L, Vitali M, Romano Spica V. Procedures in endoscope reprocessing and monitoring: an Italian survey. Ann Ig 2018; 30:45-63. [PMID: 30374511 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2018.2250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high diffusion of endoscopes worldwide and the need for effective reprocessing methods requested the development of guidelines and implementation of surveillance procedures at local level. STUDY DESIGN In order to collect data on everyday's practice and adherence to available guidelines, endoscopy units from different public institutions were surveyed using a dedicated questionnaire. METHODS Between July and November 2015 a survey was carried in 12 main hospitals from 10 different Italian regions, involving 22 endoscopy units. The state of the art of national and international guidelines was investigated to compare the protocols adopted at local level. RESULTS In all the surveyed hospitals, the reprocessing activity is based on pre-established protocols in adherence with principal guidelines. Enzymatic detergents, which are recommended by the international guidelines, are used in 55.6% of units and peracetic acid is currently the most widely used chemical disinfectant. Discrepancies were observed in the application of periodic quality controls. CONCLUSION Updated guidelines are generally applied in reprocessing practice. Quality controls may represent a critical issue to improve effectiveness and surveillance. The whole of acquired data can promote a positive trend towards the application of best practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Cristina
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa - UOS Igiene Ospedaliera E.O. Ospedali Galliera, Genoa, Italy
| | - F Valeriani
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - B Casini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - A Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - M M D'Errico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Politechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Gianfranceschi
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - P Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - G Liguori
- Department of Movement and Health Sciences, University "Parthenope," Napoli, Italy
| | - R Liguori
- Department of Science and Technology, University "Parthenope," Napoli, Italy
| | - N Mucci
- Department of Technological Innovations and Safety of Plants, Products and Anthropic Settlements, National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work, INAIL, Rome, Italy
| | - I Mura
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - C Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - A Piana
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - G Sotgiu
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - G Privitera
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - A Quattrocchi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - G Ripabelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio," University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - A Rossini
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Institute for Research and Health Care, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - A M Spagnolo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa - UOS Igiene Ospedaliera E.O. Ospedali Galliera, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Tamburro
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio," University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - S Tardivo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - M Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - V Romano Spica
- Unit of Public Health, Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy
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48
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Valeriani F, Agodi A, Casini B, Cristina ML, D'Errico MM, Gianfranceschi G, Liguori G, Liguori R, Mucci N, Mura I, Pasquarella C, Piana A, Sotgiu G, Privitera G, Protano C, Quattrocchi A, Ripabelli G, Rossini A, Spagnolo AM, Tamburro M, Tardivo S, Veronesi L, Vitali M, Romano Spica V. Potential testing of reprocessing procedures by real-time polymerase chain reaction: A multicenter study of colonoscopy devices. Am J Infect Control 2018; 46:159-164. [PMID: 28958445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reprocessing of endoscopes is key to preventing cross-infection after colonoscopy. Culture-based methods are recommended for monitoring, but alternative and rapid approaches are needed to improve surveillance and reduce turnover times. A molecular strategy based on detection of residual traces from gut microbiota was developed and tested using a multicenter survey. METHODS A simplified sampling and DNA extraction protocol using nylon-tipped flocked swabs was optimized. A multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was developed that targeted 6 bacteria genes that were amplified in 3 mixes. The method was validated by interlaboratory tests involving 5 reference laboratories. Colonoscopy devices (n = 111) were sampled in 10 Italian hospitals. Culture-based microbiology and metagenomic tests were performed to verify PCR data. RESULTS The sampling method was easily applied in all 10 endoscopy units and the optimized DNA extraction and amplification protocol was successfully performed by all of the involved laboratories. This PCR-based method allowed identification of both contaminated (n = 59) and fully reprocessed endoscopes (n = 52) with high sensibility (98%) and specificity (98%), within 3-4 hours, in contrast to the 24-72 hours needed for a classic microbiology test. Results were confirmed by next-generation sequencing and classic microbiology. CONCLUSIONS A novel approach for monitoring reprocessing of colonoscopy devices was developed and successfully applied in a multicenter survey. The general principle of tracing biological fluids through microflora DNA amplification was successfully applied and may represent a promising approach for hospital hygiene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Science, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia," University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Marcello Mario D'Errico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Politechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gianfranceschi
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Science, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement and Health Sciences, University "Parthenope," Napoli, Italy
| | - Renato Liguori
- Department of Movement and Health Sciences, University "Parthenope," Napoli, Italy
| | - Nicolina Mucci
- Department of Technological Innovations and Safety of Plants, Products and Anthropic Settlements, National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work, INAIL, Rome, Italy
| | - Ida Mura
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Piana
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sotgiu
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Gaetano Privitera
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Quattrocchi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia," University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Ripabelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio," University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Angelo Rossini
- Fondazione Santa Lucia Institute for Research and Health Care, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Tamburro
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio," University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Stefano Tardivo
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Science, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy.
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49
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Chiapponi C, Ebranati E, Pariani E, Faccini S, Luppi A, Baioni L, Manfredi R, Carta V, Merenda M, Affanni P, Colucci ME, Veronesi L, Zehender G, Foni E. Genetic analysis of human and swine influenza A viruses isolated in Northern Italy during 2010-2015. Zoonoses Public Health 2017; 65:114-123. [PMID: 28791803 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [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: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV) infection in swine plays an important role in the ecology of influenza viruses. The emergence of new IAVs comes through different mechanisms, with the genetic reassortment of genes between influenza viruses, also originating from different species, being common. We performed a genetic analysis on 179 IAV isolates from humans (n. 75) and pigs (n. 104) collected in Northern Italy between 2010 and 2015, to monitor the genetic exchange between human and swine IAVs. No cases of human infection with swine strains were noticed, but direct infections of swine with H1N1pdm09 strains were detected. Moreover, we pointed out a continuous circulation of H1N1pdm09 strains in swine populations evidenced by the introduction of internal genes of this subtype. These events contribute to generating new viral variants-possibly endowed with pandemic potential-and emphasize the importance of continuous surveillance at both animal and human level.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Chiapponi
- OIE Reference Laboratory for Swine Influenza, Parma, Italy.,Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna, Brescia, Italy
| | - E Ebranati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche "Luigi Sacco", Sezione di Malattie Infettive, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Pariani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - S Faccini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna, Brescia, Italy
| | - A Luppi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna, Brescia, Italy
| | - L Baioni
- OIE Reference Laboratory for Swine Influenza, Parma, Italy.,Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna, Brescia, Italy
| | - R Manfredi
- OIE Reference Laboratory for Swine Influenza, Parma, Italy.,Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna, Brescia, Italy
| | - V Carta
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche "Luigi Sacco", Sezione di Malattie Infettive, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - M Merenda
- OIE Reference Laboratory for Swine Influenza, Parma, Italy.,Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna, Brescia, Italy
| | - P Affanni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - M E Colucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - L Veronesi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Biotecnologiche e Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - G Zehender
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche "Luigi Sacco", Sezione di Malattie Infettive, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - E Foni
- OIE Reference Laboratory for Swine Influenza, Parma, Italy.,Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia ed Emilia Romagna, Brescia, Italy
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50
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Russo M, Manzoni GC, Taga A, Genovese A, Veronesi L, Pasquarella C, Sansebastiano GE, Torelli P. The use of onabotulinum toxin A (Botox(®)) in the treatment of chronic migraine at the Parma Headache Centre: a prospective observational study. Neurol Sci 2016; 37:1127-31. [PMID: 27048312 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-016-2568-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [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: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Chronic migraine is a debilitating headache, whose treatment is often complicated by the concomitant overuse of symptomatic medication and by the poor efficacy of standard prophylactic treatments. The PREEMPT studies have demonstrated the efficacy and tolerability of onabotulinum toxin A (Botox(®)) in the treatment of this headache type. Data about its use in clinical practice are still scarce. Our study evaluated all subjects with chronic migraine who were treated with onabotulinum toxin A between February 2014 and November 2015 at the Parma Headache Centre. Botox was injected according to the PREEMPT paradigm every 3 months. The data about variations in the number of headache days and in symptomatic medication intake before and after the Botox injections were collected from the patients' headache diaries. The study also evaluated tolerability to treatment, disability, and depressive symptoms. Of the 52 treated subjects, 14 received Botox treatment for at least 9 months and showed a significant decrease in the median number of headache days (from 19 to 14.5, p = 0.011) and in the median number of days of symptomatic medications intake and symptomatic drugs. Overall, the treatment was well tolerated. The average MIDAS and BDI-II scores after 9 months were reduced, though not significantly. The treatment with Botox proved effective and well tolerated in our clinical practice. Further studies on larger patient samples will help shed light on the persistence of the drug's effect at long term and identify the predictive factors of response to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Parma Headache Centre, University of Parma, via Gramsci 14, 43100, Parma, Italy.
| | - Gian Camillo Manzoni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Parma Headache Centre, University of Parma, via Gramsci 14, 43100, Parma, Italy
| | - Arens Taga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Parma Headache Centre, University of Parma, via Gramsci 14, 43100, Parma, Italy
| | - Antonio Genovese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Parma Headache Centre, University of Parma, via Gramsci 14, 43100, Parma, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, University of Parma, Via Volturno 39, 43125, Parma, Italy
| | - Cesira Pasquarella
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, University of Parma, Via Volturno 39, 43125, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Paola Torelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Parma Headache Centre, University of Parma, via Gramsci 14, 43100, Parma, Italy
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