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Moretti P, Vezzani S, Castello G. A calculation method for the prediction of effective plate height in capillary gas chromatography. J Chromatogr A 2009; 1216:8986-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2009.10.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2009] [Revised: 10/22/2009] [Accepted: 10/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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102
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Moretti P, Zampieron A. [The waiting process in relatives of patients submitted to surgery: staff perceptions]. PROFESSIONI INFERMIERISTICHE 2009; 62:161-166. [PMID: 20059895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Waiting for a close relative undergoing health treatment is an issue mainly considered in the light of intensive care structures whereas litte attention had been paid to the waiting process during surgery, particularly with reference to health workers. The aim of this study was to describe how health workers perceived this process and how they behaved, in a small hospital in North-Eastern Italy, by means of a semi-structured interview. The problems and needs perceived by the 41 health workers were mainly psychological: anxiety and stress due to waiting ,lack of information about the operation and post-operative conditions. Results showed that no specific action was taken regarding relatives: information was provided on an individual basis and almost always once the operation had ended. Nurses sustained that this information should be provided by physicians. These results are similar to those published in the literature. Health workers were however aware of the need to provide relatives with adequate support during operations.
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Mujovic N, Grujic M, Mrdja S, Kocijancic A, Potpara T, Mujovic NM, Polovina M, Mccann CJ, Gal B, Goethals P, Peytchev P, Geelen P, Gebauer R, Kubus P, Janousek J, De Groot NMS, Lukac P, Blom NA, Van Kuijk JP, Pedersen AK, Hansen PS, Delacretaz E, Schalij MJ, Lyne JC, Kaba R, Babu-Narayan S, Kilner P, Keegan J, Gatzoulis M, Ernst S, Di Biase L, Spadacini G, Moretti P, Tritto M. Abstracts: Ablation therapy of supraventricular arrhythmias. Europace 2009. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euq247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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104
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Castello G, Moretti P, Vezzani S. Retention models for programmed gas chromatography. J Chromatogr A 2009; 1216:1607-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2008.11.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2008] [Revised: 11/17/2008] [Accepted: 11/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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105
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Fyffe SL, Neul JL, Samaco RC, Chao HT, Ben-Shachar S, Moretti P, McGill BE, Goulding EH, Sullivan E, Tecott LH, Zoghbi HY. Deletion of Mecp2 in Sim1-expressing neurons reveals a critical role for MeCP2 in feeding behavior, aggression, and the response to stress. Neuron 2008; 59:947-58. [PMID: 18817733 PMCID: PMC2597031 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2008.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2008] [Revised: 06/05/2008] [Accepted: 07/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is an autism spectrum disorder caused by mutations in the X-linked gene encoding methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2). In order to map the neuroanatomic origins of the complex neuropsychiatric behaviors observed in patients with RTT and to uncover endogenous functions of MeCP2 in the hypothalamus, we removed Mecp2 from Sim1-expressing neurons in the hypothalamus using Cre-loxP technology. Loss of MeCP2 in Sim1-expressing neurons resulted in mice that recapitulated the abnormal physiological stress response that is seen upon MeCP2 dysfunction in the entire brain. Surprisingly, we also uncovered a role for MeCP2 in the regulation of social and feeding behaviors since the Mecp2 conditional knockout (CKO) mice were aggressive, hyperphagic, and obese. This study demonstrates that deleting Mecp2 in a defined brain region is an excellent approach to map the neuronal origins of complex behaviors and provides new insight about the function of MeCP2 in specific neurons.
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Santilli R, Perego M, Crosara S, Gardini F, Bellino C, Moretti P, Spadacini G. Utility of 12-Lead Electrocardiogram for Differentiating Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardias in Dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2008; 22:915-23. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2008.0127.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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107
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Ranfagni A, Moretti P, Cacciari I, Vitali MA. Reexamination of Josephson junctions coupled to transmission lines. Phys Rev E 2008; 77:057601. [PMID: 18643200 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.77.057601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2007] [Revised: 04/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The effect of dissipation when due to the load of a transmission line coupled to a Josephson junction is reconsidered and evaluated by means of a simple direct procedure that supplies analytical expressions. The results are in good agreement with the ones previously reported in the literature. A simple criterion for testing experimental results is introduced.
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108
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Barbillon G, Faure AC, El Kork N, Moretti P, Roux S, Tillement O, Ou MG, Descamps A, Perriat P, Vial A, Bijeon JL, Marquette CA, Jacquier B. How nanoparticles encapsulating fluorophores allow a double detection of biomolecules by localized surface plasmon resonance and luminescence. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2008; 19:035705. [PMID: 21817590 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/19/03/035705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The paper shows how polysiloxane particles encapsulating fluorophores can be successfully used to detect biotin-streptavidin binding by two types of technique. After functionalization of the particles by streptavidin, the fixation of the biomolecule can indeed be detected by a shift of the localized surface plasmon resonance of the biotinylated gold dots used as substrate and by the luminescence of the fluorophores evidenced by scanning near-field optical microscopy. The development of particles allowing such a double detection opens a route for increasing the reliability of biological detection and for multi-labelling strategies crossing both detection principles.
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109
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Ranfagni A, Moretti P, Cacciari I, Vitali MA. Tunneling in frustrated total internal reflection: a comparison of different approaches. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2007; 76:047601. [PMID: 17995140 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.76.047601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Tunneling processes in frustrated total internal reflection are reexamined in order to compare the results already obtained from adopting a procedure based on a transition-element analysis with those recently reported on the basis of a statistical method applied to a Brownian-like motion. A close agreement between the two approaches can be established, at optical and microwave scales, when suitable values of the involved parameters are adopted.
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Chiodo F, Doneda P, Cò D, Peverelli E, Bertazzolo M, Laguardia C, Moretti P, Pulvirenti F, Fanti D, Gesu G. VERIFICA DI ACCURATEZZA DEL DOSAGGIO ABBOTT REALTIME HCV-RNA MEDIANTE IL 2° STANDARD INTERNAZIONALE WHO (96/798). MICROBIOLOGIA MEDICA 2007. [DOI: 10.4081/mm.2007.2792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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111
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Lenoir G, Antypkin YG, Miano A, Moretti P, Zanda M, Varoli G, Monici Preti PA, Aryayev NL. Efficacy, safety, and local pharmacokinetics of highly concentrated nebulized tobramycin in patients with cystic fibrosis colonized with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Paediatr Drugs 2007; 9 Suppl 1:11-20. [PMID: 17536871 DOI: 10.2165/00148581-200709001-00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Progressive respiratory failure due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization is the most significant morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This trial was designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a highly concentrated (300mg/4mL) tobramycin solution for inhalation (TSI) [Bramitob] in patients with CF and P. aeruginosa infection. METHODS Fifty-nine patients were randomized to receive a 4-week treatment with tobramycin or placebo administered twice daily via the Pari LC Plus nebulizer and Pari TurboBoy compressor, followed by a 4-week run-out phase. Pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV(1)], forced vital capacity [FVC], and forced expiratory flow at the midportion of vital capacity [FEF(25-75%)]), P. aeruginosa susceptibility, microbiologic results, and in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration for 90% of strains (MIC(90)) were the efficacy outcome measures, while safety was monitored by the recording of adverse events, audiometry (bone conduction at 250-8,000Hz frequency), laboratory tests, physical examination and general health condition. The concentration of tobramycin attained in sputum was measured in a cohort of 21 patients. RESULTS FEV(1) significantly increased from baseline in the tobramycin group compared with no change in the placebo group: the absolute difference between groups (intent-to-treat population) of predicted normal was 13.2% at week 2 (p = 0.002) and 13.3% at week 4 (p = 0.003). Significant differences in favor of the tobramycin group were also observed for FVC and FEF(25-75%). The microbiologic results at the end of the treatment period (P. aeruginosa-negative culture, persistence, superinfection) showed a significantly better outcome in the tobramycin group compared with placebo (p = 0.033). The effects of tobramycin on pulmonary function and microbiology were not maintained at the end of the run-out phase. Mean sputum concentrations of tobramycin after the first dose (695.6 +/- 817.0 microg/mL) were similar to those measured after the last dose (716.9 +/- 799 microg/mL) and were superior to the detected specific MIC(90). The proportion of patients with drug-related adverse events was lower in the tobramycin group and no signs of renal or auditory toxicity were observed. CONCLUSIONS The 4-week administration of a highly concentrated TSI significantly improved pulmonary function and microbiologic outcome compared with placebo and was well tolerated. The results of this study should be confirmed in further long-term trials in larger populations.
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Vezzani S, Moretti P, Castello G. Prediction of the separation number of capillary columns in programmed temperature gas chromatographic analysis. Anal Chim Acta 2007; 599:151-61. [PMID: 17765075 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2007.07.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2007] [Revised: 07/25/2007] [Accepted: 07/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The efficiency of capillary columns in programmed temperature analysis can be evaluated by calculation of the separation number ("Trennzahl"). A procedure for the prediction of this parameter at various initial temperatures, carrier gas pressures and heating rates, by using as the starting data the retention times and the peak widths obtained in some isobaric and isothermal runs is described. An equation is proposed that permits to obtain the values of the peak width at half height in any isothermal and linearly programmed temperature gas chromatographic run and therefore to calculate the separation number value. The effect on this parameter of the column polarity was investigated by using polar and non-polar compounds (n-alkanes and 1-alcohols).
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Santilli RA, Spadacini G, Moretti P, Perego M, Perini A, Crosara S, Tarducci A. Anatomic distribution and electrophysiologic properties of accessory atrioventricular pathways in dogs. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2007; 231:393-8. [PMID: 17669040 DOI: 10.2460/javma.231.3.393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the anatomic distribution and electrophysiologic properties of accessory pathways (APs) in dogs. DESIGN Case series. ANIMALS 10 dogs with tachyarrhythmias associated with an AP. PROCEDURES Each dog underwent electrophysiologic testing to determine the inducibility of documented and undocumented arrhythmias and to identify location, conduction properties, and antegrade and retrograde effective refractory periods of the APs. Radiofrequency catheter ablation was then performed. RESULTS 15 APs were identified; 7 dogs each had a single AP, and 3 had multiple APs. Fourteen of the 15 APs were right-sided (6 right free wall, 4 posteroseptal, 3 midseptal, and 1 anteroseptal), and 1 was left-sided (left free wall). All APs conducted in an all-or-none fashion. Unidirectional retrograde conduction was observed in 11 APs, and bidirectional conduction was observed in 4. All documented tachyarrhythmias could be induced during electrophysiologic testing; atrial fibrillation was also inducible in 2 dogs. Mean +/- SD cycle duration of orthodromic atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia was 215.80 +/- 44.87 milliseconds. Mean shortest R-R interval during atrial fibrillation was 247.33 +/- 83.17 milliseconds. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that in dogs, most APs are right-sided, had unidirectional retrograde conduction, and are associated with various arrhythmias, including orthodromic atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia and atrial fibrillation without evidence of pre-excitation.
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Moretti P, Ranfagni A, Sandri P. Path-integral treatment of optical and microwave tunneling. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2007; 75:066612. [PMID: 17677381 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.75.066612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2007] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
A model based on a statistical method, as deduced from a path-integral treatment of the Brownian motion proposed by Feynman and Hibbs in 1965, demonstrates to be capable of interpreting the results of delay time measurements in frustrated total internal reflection experiments at an optical and microwave scale. A plausible description of the trajectories followed by the system inside the tunneling region, the air gap between the two dielectric prisms, is given.
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Styczkiewicz K, Spadacini G, Tritto M, Moretti P, Perego G, Facchini M, Bilo G, Castiglioni P, Di Rienzo M, Kawecka-Jaszcz K, Salerno-Uriate JA, Parati G. Pulmonary Vein Isolation for Atrial Fibrillation and Baroreflex-Mediated Heart Control. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2007. [DOI: 10.2165/00151642-200714030-00086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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116
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Grivas C, Shepherd DP, Eason RW, Laversenne L, Moretti P, Borca CN, Pollnau M. Room-temperature continuous-wave operation of Ti:sapphire buried channel-waveguide lasers fabricated via proton implantation. OPTICS LETTERS 2006; 31:3450-2. [PMID: 17099746 DOI: 10.1364/ol.31.003450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Fabrication and laser operation of proton-implanted Ti:sapphire buried channel waveguides is reported for the first time to our knowledge. Without any postimplantation annealing of the structures, continuous laser operation near 780 nm was demonstrated at room temperature at an absorbed pump power threshold of 230 mW. Single-transverse-mode laser emission was observed with measured beam propagation factors M(2)(x) and M(2)(y) of 1.5 and 1.2, respectively. An output power of 12.4 mW for 1 W pump power was obtained with an output coupler of 4.6% transmission at the signal wavelength. Higher output powers were measured in waveguides with larger cross sections exhibiting multimode laser emission.
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Bandini S, Antonelli G, Moretti P, Pampanelli S, Quartesan R, Perriello G. Factors affecting dropout in outpatient eating disorder treatment. Eat Weight Disord 2006; 11:179-84. [PMID: 17272947 DOI: 10.1007/bf03327569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the incidence and effects of factors potentially influencing eating disordered patients' dropping out of outpatient cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). METHOD Sixty-seven (64 female, 3 male) patients with eating disorders participated in the study. All patients followed a multidisciplinary team approach for a median period of 9 months. Several factors potentially affecting dropout were retrospectively assessed prior to treatment. RESULTS The dropout rate was significantly higher in patients with purging anorexia nervosa (AN) compared to those with restrictive AN, bulimia nervosa and eating disorder not otherwise specified (33% vs. 27%, 25% or 21%, respectively, p<0.05). Among several factors influencing dropout, there was a significant association of patient low cooperativeness, purging episodes, restrictive eating, use of several weight control practices and psychiatric co-morbidity in patients who dropped out compared to completers (all p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS In outpatient eating disorder treatment, non-compliance and premature interruption of therapy are affected primarily by factors which are related to patients' attitude and behaviour. These factors should be carefully addressed in patients with eating disorders to improve outcome.
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Santilli RA, Spadacini G, Moretti P, Perego M, Perini A, Tarducci A, Crosara S, Salerno-Uriarte JA. Radiofrequency catheter ablation of concealed accessory pathways in two dogs with symptomatic atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia. J Vet Cardiol 2006; 8:157-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvc.2006.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2005] [Revised: 06/01/2006] [Accepted: 06/03/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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119
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Moretti P, Vezzani S, Castello G. Prediction of theoretical plate number in isothermal gas chromatographic analysis on capillary columns. J Chromatogr A 2006; 1133:305-14. [PMID: 16959257 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2006.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2006] [Revised: 08/10/2006] [Accepted: 08/10/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
A method for the prediction of the efficiency of gas chromatographic analysis in isothermal conditions by using experimental data of 1-alcohols and n-alkanes measured on capillary columns filled with polar and non-polar stationary phases in isothermal and isobaric conditions is described. The theoretical plate height trend indicates the change of separation efficiency as a function of inlet pressure and column temperature. By evaluating the variation of the diffusion coefficients of the analysed compounds into the mobile and stationary phase it is possible to predict the column efficiency and the number of theoretical plates at any temperature.
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Brewer GJ, Askari F, Lorincz MT, Carlson M, Schilsky M, Kluin KJ, Hedera P, Moretti P, Fink JK, Tankanow R, Dick RB, Sitterly J. Treatment of Wilson disease with ammonium tetrathiomolybdate: IV. Comparison of tetrathiomolybdate and trientine in a double-blind study of treatment of the neurologic presentation of Wilson disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 63:521-7. [PMID: 16606763 DOI: 10.1001/archneur.63.4.521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare tetrathiomolybdate and trientine in treating patients with the neurologic presentation of Wilson disease for the frequency of neurologic worsening, adverse effects, and degree of neurologic recovery. DESIGN A randomized, double-blind, controlled, 2-arm study of 48 patients with the neurologic presentation of Wilson disease. Patients either received 500 mg of trientine hydrochloride 2 times per day or 20 mg of tetrathiomolybdate 3 times per day with meals and 20 mg 3 times per day between meals for 8 weeks. All patients received 50 mg of zinc 2 times per day. Patients were hospitalized for 8 weeks, with neurologic and speech function assessed weekly; discharged taking 50 mg of zinc 3 times per day, and returned annually for follow-up. SETTING A university hospital referral setting. PATIENTS Primarily newly diagnosed patients with Wilson disease presenting with neurologic symptoms who had not been treated longer than 4 weeks with an anticopper drug. INTERVENTION Treatment with either trientine plus zinc or tetrathiomolybdate plus zinc. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Neurologic function was assessed by semiquantitative neurologic and speech examinations. Drug adverse events were evaluated by blood cell counts and biochemical measures. RESULTS Six of 23 patients in the trientine arm and 1 of 25 patients in the tetrathiomolybdate arm underwent neurologic deterioration (P<.05). Three patients receiving tetrathiomolybdate had adverse effects of anemia and/or leukopenia, and 4 had further transaminase elevations. One patient receiving trientine had an adverse effect of anemia. Four patients receiving trientine died during follow-up, 3 having shown initial neurologic deterioration. Neurologic and speech recovery during a 3-year follow-up period were quite good. CONCLUSION Tetrathiomolybdate is a better choice than trientine for preserving neurologic function in patients who present with neurologic disease.
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Moretti P, Zoghbi HY. MeCP2 dysfunction in Rett syndrome and related disorders. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2006; 16:276-81. [PMID: 16647848 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2006.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2006] [Accepted: 04/18/2006] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the X-linked gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), is a leading cause of mental retardation with autistic features in females. MECP2 mutations have also been identified in individuals with a variety of clinical syndromes, including mild learning-disability in females, neonatal encephalopathy in males, and psychiatric disorders, autism and X-linked mental retardation in both males and females. Furthermore, MECP2 duplications have been shown to cause a progressive postnatal neurological disorder. MeCP2 is a transcriptional repressor that binds to methylated CpG dinucleotides flanked by AT-rich segments and recruits a co-repressor complex, thereby altering chromatin structure. Subtle gene expression changes have been identified in Rett patients and mouse models; however, MeCP2 dysfunction has also been shown to cause abnormalities of RNA splicing, suggesting a complex molecular pathogenesis. Discovering which genes are misregulated in the absence of functional MeCP2 and demonstrating their role in causing neuronal dysfunction and disease manifestations are challenging but important steps for understanding the pathogenesis of Rett syndrome and related disorders.
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Styczkiewicz K, Spadacini G, Tritto M, Moretti P, Perego GB, Facchini M, Salerno-Uriarte JA, Kawecka-Jaszcz K, Parati G. P3-68. Heart Rhythm 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2006.02.600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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123
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Moretti P, Levenson JM, Battaglia F, Atkinson R, Teague R, Antalffy B, Armstrong D, Arancio O, Sweatt JD, Zoghbi HY. Learning and memory and synaptic plasticity are impaired in a mouse model of Rett syndrome. J Neurosci 2006; 26:319-27. [PMID: 16399702 PMCID: PMC6674314 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2623-05.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 407] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Loss-of-function mutations or abnormal expression of the X-linked gene encoding methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) cause a spectrum of postnatal neurodevelopmental disorders including Rett syndrome (RTT), nonsyndromic mental retardation, learning disability, and autism. Mice expressing a truncated allele of Mecp2 (Mecp2(308)) reproduce the motor and social behavior abnormalities of RTT; however, it is not known whether learning deficits are present in these animals. We investigated learning and memory, neuronal morphology, and synaptic function in Mecp2(308) mice. Hippocampus-dependent spatial memory, contextual fear memory, and social memory were significantly impaired in Mecp2(308) mutant males (Mecp2(308/Y)). The morphology of dendritic arborizations, the biochemical composition of synaptosomes and postsynaptic densities, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression were not altered in these mice. However, reduced postsynaptic density cross-sectional length was identified in asymmetric synapses of area CA1 of the hippocampus. In the hippocampus of symptomatic Mecp2(308/Y) mice, Schaffer-collateral synapses exhibited enhanced basal synaptic transmission and decreased paired-pulse facilitation, suggesting that neurotransmitter release was enhanced. Schaffer-collateral long-term potentiation (LTP) was impaired. LTP was also reduced in the motor and sensory regions of the neocortex. Finally, very early symptomatic Mecp2(308/Y) mice had increased basal synaptic transmission and deficits in the induction of long-term depression. These data demonstrate a requirement for MeCP2 in learning and memory and suggest that functional and ultrastructural synaptic dysfunction is an early event in the pathogenesis of RTT.
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Moretti P, Sahoo T, Hyland K, Bottiglieri T, Peters S, del Gaudio D, Roa B, Curry S, Zhu H, Finnell RH, Neul JL, Ramaekers VT, Blau N, Bacino CA, Miller G, Scaglia F. Cerebral folate deficiency with developmental delay, autism, and response to folinic acid. Neurology 2006; 64:1088-90. [PMID: 15781839 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000154641.08211.b7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors describe a 6-year-old girl with developmental delay, psychomotor regression, seizures, mental retardation, and autistic features associated with low CSF levels of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, the biologically active form of folates in CSF and blood. Folate and B12 levels were normal in peripheral tissues, suggesting cerebral folate deficiency. Treatment with folinic acid corrected CSF abnormalities and improved motor skills.
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Miano A, Ambroni M, Grzincich P, Pisi G, Casciaro R, De Alessandri A, Moretti P, Bignamini E, Castello M. 192 Prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in CF infants. J Cyst Fibros 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(06)80174-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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