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Blaschke SJ, Rautenberg N, Endepols H, Jendro A, Konrad J, Vlachakis S, Wiedermann D, Schroeter M, Hoffmann B, Merkel R, Marklund N, Fink GR, Rueger MA. Early Blood-Brain Barrier Impairment as a Pathological Hallmark in a Novel Model of Closed-Head Concussive Brain Injury (CBI) in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4837. [PMID: 38732053 PMCID: PMC11084321 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Concussion, caused by a rotational acceleration/deceleration injury mild enough to avoid structural brain damage, is insufficiently captured in recent preclinical models, hampering the relation of pathophysiological findings on the cellular level to functional and behavioral deficits. We here describe a novel model of unrestrained, single vs. repetitive concussive brain injury (CBI) in male C56Bl/6j mice. Longitudinal behavioral assessments were conducted for up to seven days afterward, alongside the evaluation of structural cerebral integrity by in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, 9.4 T), and validated ex vivo by histology. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity was analyzed by means of fluorescent dextran- as well as immunoglobulin G (IgG) extravasation, and neuroinflammatory processes were characterized both in vivo by positron emission tomography (PET) using [18F]DPA-714 and ex vivo using immunohistochemistry. While a single CBI resulted in a defined, subacute neuropsychiatric phenotype, longitudinal cognitive testing revealed a marked decrease in spatial cognition, most pronounced in mice subjected to CBI at high frequency (every 48 h). Functional deficits were correlated to a parallel disruption of the BBB, (R2 = 0.29, p < 0.01), even detectable by a significant increase in hippocampal uptake of [18F]DPA-714, which was not due to activation of microglia, as confirmed immunohistochemically. Featuring a mild but widespread disruption of the BBB without evidence of macroscopic damage, this model induces a characteristic neuro-psychiatric phenotype that correlates to the degree of BBB disruption. Based on these findings, the BBB may function as both a biomarker of CBI severity and as a potential treatment target to improve recovery from concussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan J. Blaschke
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany; (N.R.); (A.J.); (M.S.); (G.R.F.); (M.A.R.)
- Cognitive Neuroscience Section, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, 52428 Juelich, Germany
| | - Nora Rautenberg
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany; (N.R.); (A.J.); (M.S.); (G.R.F.); (M.A.R.)
- Cognitive Neuroscience Section, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, 52428 Juelich, Germany
| | - Heike Endepols
- Institute of Radiochemistry and Experimental Molecular Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany;
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Nuclear Chemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-5), Research Centre Juelich, 52428 Juelich, Germany
| | - Aileen Jendro
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany; (N.R.); (A.J.); (M.S.); (G.R.F.); (M.A.R.)
| | - Jens Konrad
- Mechanobiology, Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI-2), Research Centre Juelich, 52425 Juelich, Germany; (J.K.); (B.H.); (R.M.)
| | - Susan Vlachakis
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany; (N.R.); (A.J.); (M.S.); (G.R.F.); (M.A.R.)
| | - Dirk Wiedermann
- Multimodal Imaging Group, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, 50931 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Michael Schroeter
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany; (N.R.); (A.J.); (M.S.); (G.R.F.); (M.A.R.)
- Cognitive Neuroscience Section, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, 52428 Juelich, Germany
| | - Bernd Hoffmann
- Mechanobiology, Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI-2), Research Centre Juelich, 52425 Juelich, Germany; (J.K.); (B.H.); (R.M.)
| | - Rudolf Merkel
- Mechanobiology, Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI-2), Research Centre Juelich, 52425 Juelich, Germany; (J.K.); (B.H.); (R.M.)
| | - Niklas Marklund
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Neurosurgery, Lund University, 221 85 Lund, Sweden;
| | - Gereon R. Fink
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany; (N.R.); (A.J.); (M.S.); (G.R.F.); (M.A.R.)
- Cognitive Neuroscience Section, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, 52428 Juelich, Germany
| | - Maria A. Rueger
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, 50923 Cologne, Germany; (N.R.); (A.J.); (M.S.); (G.R.F.); (M.A.R.)
- Cognitive Neuroscience Section, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Centre Juelich, 52428 Juelich, Germany
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Atallah O, Badary A, Almealawy YF, Sanker V, Andrew Awuah W, Abdul-Rahman T, Alrubaye SN, Chaurasia B. Non-colloid-cyst primary brain tumors: A systematic review of unexpected fatality. J Clin Neurosci 2024; 119:129-140. [PMID: 38029695 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2023.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Primary brain tumors have the potential to present a substantial health hazard, ultimately resulting in unforeseen fatalities. Despite the enhanced comprehension of many diseases, the precise prediction of disease progression continues to pose a significant challenge. The objective of this study is to investigate cases of unexpected mortality resulting from primary brain tumors and analyze the variables that contribute to such occurrences. METHODS This systematic review explores research on individuals diagnosed with primary brain tumors who experienced unexpected deaths. It uses PRISMA standards and searches PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. Variables considered include age, gender, symptoms, tumor type, WHO grade, postmortem findings, time of death - time taken from first medical presentation or hospital admission to death, comorbidity, and risk factors. RESULTS This study examined 46 studies to analyze patient-level data from 76 individuals with unexpected deaths attributed to intracranial lesions, deliberately excluding colloid cysts. The cohort's age distribution showed an average age of 37 years, with no significant gender preference. Headache was the most common initial symptom. Astrocytomas, meningiomas, and glioblastoma were the most common lesions, while the frontal lobe, temporal lobe, and cerebellum were common locations. Meningiomas and astrocytomas showed faster deaths within the first hour of hospital admission. CONCLUSION The etiology of unforeseen fatalities resulting from cerebral tumors elucidates an intricate and varied phenomenon. Although unexpected deaths account for a very tiny proportion of total fatalities, it is probable that their actual occurrence is underestimated as a result of underreporting and misdiagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oday Atallah
- Departemnt of Neurosurgery, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Amr Badary
- Departemnt of Neurosurgery, Klinikum Dessau, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | | | - Vivek Sanker
- Department of Neurosurgery, Trivandrum Medical College, Kerala, India
| | | | | | | | - Bipin Chaurasia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery Clinic, Birgunj ,Nepal.
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Vrbanic L, Hunt C, Cooney M, Heffernan J, Walsh A, Heaney C, Collis SA, Howley R, Fearon C, Farrell M, Brett F. Intracranial haemorrhage and falls: cause or effect? Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:2387-2390. [PMID: 36534315 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-03222-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A difficult question in autopsy practice is whether intracranial haemorrhage has resulted from or brought about a fall. MATERIAL AND METHODS To address this we undertook a retrospective study of all autopsy reports (N = 2126) complied over a 10 year period (2009-2018). Of 720 patients who underwent a comprehensive post mortem neuropathologic examination we found 226 patients who had a history of a fall. RESULTS Of the 226 with a history of fall, 175 (79%) had an intracranial haemorrhage which was classified as truamatic (n = 134, 77%) or spontaneous (n = 41, 23%. Within the traumatic group, falls from a standing height (51%) were more common than falls involving stairs (31%) or falls from a height (12%). Cerebral contusional injury (51%) and subdural haemorrhage (45%) were the most common type of haemorrhage in the traumatic group. In the spontaneous haemorrhage group cerebral amyloid angiopathy (49%) was the commonest detected cause and was typically lobar in distribution). CONCLUSION We are of the view that a comprehensive analysis of fatal falls with intracranial haemorrhage warrants a detailed neuropathologic examination as part of the overall death analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Vrbanic
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciara Hunt
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Maeve Cooney
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Josephine Heffernan
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Andrea Walsh
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Ciara Heaney
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | | | - Rachel Howley
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Conor Fearon
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Michael Farrell
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Francesca Brett
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Department of Pathology [Neuropathology], Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Dublin 9, Ireland.
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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Oura P, Eklin A, Sajantila A. Neuropathology consultation rates in medico-legal autopsies show substantial within-country variation-a nationwide Finnish study. Forensic Sci Res 2023; 8:198-201. [PMID: 38221966 PMCID: PMC10785601 DOI: 10.1093/fsr/owad027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuropathology consultations are an essential part of medico-legal cause-of-death investigations. However, there are little data on the rates of neuropathological examinations in medico-legal autopsies. The present nationwide, retrospective, register-based study aimed to report and compare neuropathology consultation rates (i.e. the percentages of medico-legal autopsies with a neuropathology consultation) in five Finnish regions from 2016 to 2021. The dataset comprised 50 457 medico-legal autopsies with 1 274 neuropathology consultations. Overall, ~1 in 40 autopsies (2.5%) involved a neuropathology consultation. Consultation rates were lowest in the Southern Finland region (1.4%) and highest in the Southwestern Finland and Åland region (6.5%). Throughout the study period, the consultation rates of Southwestern Finland and Åland were 1.5 to 9.4 times those of other regions (P < 0.001). In conclusion, this nationwide Finnish study identified substantial differences in neuropathology consultation rates between regions, which may indicate regional differences in conventions and policies. However, the "optimal" consultation rate remains unknown. Future studies are required to further understand the differences in autopsy practices within the Finnish context as well as in medico-legal institutions elsewhere. Key points There are little data on the rates of neuropathology consultations in medico-legal autopsies.This Finnish study characterized regional differences in neuropathology consultation rates between 2016 and 2021.Overall, 1 in 40 autopsies (2.5%) involved a neuropathology consultation.The consultation rates of Southwestern Finland and Åland were 1.5 to 9.4 times those of other regions.Our findings may reflect regional differences in conventions and policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petteri Oura
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, FI-00271, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aki Eklin
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, FI-00271, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Antti Sajantila
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, FI-00271, Helsinki, Finland
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Aminmansour B, Sameri S, Shafiei M, Mahmoodkhani M, Sheibani Tehrani D. The impact of body mass index changes on traumatic brain injury patients' outcomes during hospitalization. Chin J Traumatol 2023:S1008-1275(23)00071-8. [PMID: 37704513 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjtee.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Obesity is a complex multifactorial disease with increasing prevalence worldwide. The present study was conducted, since there were different results on the effect of obesity on the prognosis of patients with moderate and severe brain trauma, and the issue was less investigated. METHODS The present descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2 hospitals, Al-Zahra and Kashani in year 2022. Patients with Glasgow coma scale (GCS) score of 9 - 12 (moderate concussion) and patients with a GCS score of < 8 (severe concussion) who consented to participate in the study were included in the study. Patients who died; had serious injuries related to the chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, and organs, in addition to the concussion; had a part of their body amputated during the same incident; received medications; or had diseases which caused obesity like diabetes were excluded from the study. Patients' height and weight were extracted for calculating the body mass index (BMI). Their functional independences were measured at admission and discharge according to the Glasgow outcome scale-extended (GOSE) scale. All the data were analyzed in SPSS 26. RESULTS This study examined a total of 287 traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients (251 with moderate concussion and 36 with severe concussion). In total, 91 (36.3%) patients with moderate TBI had a lower BMI, and 14 (38.9%) patients with severe TBI had a constant BMI. There was a significant difference between the mean changes of BMI and the GOSE, functional independence measure (FIM) motor (p = 0.006), FIM cognitive (p = 0.023), and FIM total scores (p = 0.002) in patients with severe TBI; however, significant difference was found only between the mean changes of BMI, GOSE and FIM motor scores (p = 0.001) in patients with moderate TBI. CONCLUSION BMI is a risk factor affecting treatment results in patients with TBI, which should be controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Aminmansour
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Al Zahra Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Soroush Sameri
- School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Shafiei
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Al Zahra Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Mahmoodkhani
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Kashani Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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Oura P, Hakkarainen A, Sajantila A. Forensic neuropathology in the past decade: a scoping literature review. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2023:10.1007/s12024-023-00672-9. [PMID: 37439948 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-023-00672-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
While there has been notable research activity in the field of clinical neuropathology over the recent years, forensic approaches have been less frequent. This scoping literature review explored original research on forensic neuropathology over the past decade (January 1, 2010, until February 12, 2022) using the MEDLINE database. The aims were to (1) analyze the volume of research on the topic, (2) describe meta-level attributes and sample characteristics, and (3) summarize key research themes and methods. Of 5053 initial hits, 2864 fell within the target timeframe, and 122 were included in the review. Only 3-17 articles were published per year globally. Most articles originated from the Europe (39.3%) and Asia (36.1%) and were published in forensic journals (57.4%). A median sample included 57 subjects aged between 16 and 80 years. The most common research theme was traumatic intracranial injury (24.6%), followed by anatomy (12.3%) and substance abuse (11.5%). Key methods included immunotechniques (31.1%) and macroscopic observation (21.3%). Although a number of novel findings were reported, most were of preliminary nature and will require further validation. In order to reach breakthroughs and validate novel tools for routine use, more research input is urged from researchers across the world. It would be necessary to ensure appropriate sample sizes and make use of control groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petteri Oura
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21, Helsinki, FI-00014, Finland.
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, Helsinki, FI-00271, Finland.
| | - Antti Hakkarainen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21, Helsinki, FI-00014, Finland
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, Helsinki, FI-00271, Finland
| | - Antti Sajantila
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21, Helsinki, FI-00014, Finland
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, P.O. Box 30, Helsinki, FI-00271, Finland
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Bonin S, D’Errico S, Medeot C, Moreschi C, Ciglieri SS, Peruch M, Concato M, Azzalini E, Previderè C, Fattorini P. Evaluation of a Set of miRNAs in 26 Cases of Fatal Traumatic Brain Injuries. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10836. [PMID: 37446013 PMCID: PMC10341445 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In forensic medicine, identifying novel biomarkers for use as diagnostic tools to ascertain causes of death is challenging because of sample degradation. To that aim, a cohort (n = 26) of fatal traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) were tested for three candidate miRNAs (namely, miR-124-3p, miR-138-5p, and miR144-3p). For each case, three FFPE specimens (coup area (CA), contrecoup area (CCA), and the corpus callosum (CC)) were investigated, whereas the FFPE brain tissues of 45 subjects (deceased due to acute cardiovascular events) were used as controls. Relative quantification via the ∆∆Ct method returned significantly higher expression levels of the three candidate miRNAs (p < 0.01) in the TBI cases. No difference was detected in the expression levels of any miRNA investigated in the study among the CA, CCA, and CC. Furthermore, the analyzed miRNAs were unrelated to the TBI samples' post-mortem intervals (PMIs). On the contrary, has-miR-124-3p ahashsa-miR-144-3p were significantly correlated (p < 0.01) with the agonal time in TBI deaths. Since the RNA was highly degraded in autoptic FFPE tissues, it was impossible to analyze the mRNA targets of the miRNAs investigated in the present study, highlighting the necessity of standardizing pre-analytical processes even for autopsy tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Bonin
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
| | - Stefano D’Errico
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
| | - Caterina Medeot
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
| | - Carlo Moreschi
- DAME—Department of Medical Area, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Solange Sorçaburu Ciglieri
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
| | - Michela Peruch
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
| | - Monica Concato
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
| | - Eros Azzalini
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
| | - Carlo Previderè
- Department of Public Health, Experimental, and Forensic Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Paolo Fattorini
- DSM—Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (S.B.); (C.M.); (S.S.C.); (M.P.); (M.C.); (E.A.); (P.F.)
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Albano GD, Stassi C, Argo A, Zerbo S. An Overview on the Use of miRNAs as Possible Forensic Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Traumatic Brain Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076503. [PMID: 37047473 PMCID: PMC10094817 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Determining the cause of death is one of the main goals of forensic pathology. However, conditions can occur in which common approaches—external inspection, autopsy, histology, etc.—might not be conclusive. With the advancement of molecular biology, several investigative techniques have been developed over the years, and the application as approaches complementary to routine procedures has proved useful in these cases. In this context, microRNA (miRNA) profiling has attracted increasing interest due to these molecules’ ability to regulate physiological and pathological processes. The evidence of differential miRNA expression in both animal models and human samples of traumatic brain injury (TBI) has laid the basis for comprehension of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, thus allowing us to identify some of them as possible TBI diagnostic biomarkers. The present narrative review aims to explore the primary miRNAs involved in the mechanisms underlying TBI, which could be considered for future evaluation as possible markers in a post mortem setting.
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Cervical spine injury: clinical and medico-legal overview. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2023; 128:103-112. [PMID: 36719553 PMCID: PMC9931800 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-022-01578-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Spinal trauma is an important cause of disability worldwide. Injury to the cervical spine (CS) occurs frequently after major trauma. 5-10% of patients with blunt trauma have a cervical spine injury. The cervical spine accounts for ~ 50% of all spinal injuries. Determination of CS stability is a common challenge in the acute care setting of patients with trauma. Several issues, indeed, are of particular concern: who needs CS imaging; what imaging should be obtained; when should computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or flexion/extension (F/E) radiographs be obtained; and how is significant ligamentous injury excluded in the comatose patient. CT and MRI both have roles to play. This article aims to present the different imaging to frame techniques to be used with greater precision in the acute event also for the purpose of planning the next therapeutic process. An overview of the applicability of the same methods in forensic pathology is also provided highlighting possible future biomarker to ease in diagnosis of acute TBI.
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Arora K, Vats V, Kaushik N, Sindhawani D, Saini V, Arora DM, Kumar Y, Vashisht E, Singh G, Verma PK. A Systematic Review on Traumatic Brain Injury Pathophysiology and Role of Herbal Medicines in its Management. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:2487-2504. [PMID: 36703580 PMCID: PMC10616914 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230126151208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a worldwide problem. Almost about sixtynine million people sustain TBI each year all over the world. Repetitive TBI linked with increased risk of neurodegenerative disorder such as Parkinson, Alzheimer, traumatic encephalopathy. TBI is characterized by primary and secondary injury and exerts a severe impact on cognitive, behavioral, psychological and other health problem. There were various proposed mechanism to understand complex pathophysiology of TBI but still there is a need to explore more about TBI pathophysiology. There are drugs present for the treatment of TBI in the market but there is still need of more drugs to develop for better and effective treatment of TBI, because no single drug is available which reduces the further progression of this injury. OBJECTIVE The main aim and objective of structuring this manuscript is to design, develop and gather detailed data regarding about the pathophysiology of TBI and role of medicinal plants in its treatment. METHOD This study is a systematic review conducted between January 1995 to June 2021 in which a consultation of scientific articles from indexed periodicals was carried out in Science Direct, United States National Library of Medicine (Pubmed), Google Scholar, Elsvier, Springer and Bentham. RESULTS A total of 54 studies were analyzed, on the basis of literature survey in the research area of TBI. CONCLUSION Recent studies have shown the potential of medicinal plants and their chemical constituents against TBI therefore, this review targets the detailed information about the pathophysiology of TBI and role of medicinal plants in its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaushal Arora
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Vishal Vats
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Nalin Kaushik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chaudhary Bansi Lal University, Bhiwani, Haryana, 127031, India
| | - Deepanshu Sindhawani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Vaishali Saini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Divy Mohan Arora
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Yogesh Kumar
- Sat Priya College of Pharmacy, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Etash Vashisht
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Govind Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Prabhakar Kumar Verma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
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Azmitia L, Grassi S, Signorelli F, Filograna L, Pascali V, Olivi A, Visocchi M, Oliva A. Post-mortem Imaging of Brain/Spine Injuries: The Importance of a Comprehensive Forensic Approach. ACTA NEUROCHIRURGICA. SUPPLEMENT 2023; 135:27-31. [PMID: 38153445 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-36084-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
In forensic investigations, the limitations of the traditional purely autoptic approach can be overcome through post-mortem imaging (virtopsy). Virtospy has several applications to the investigation of brain and spinal injuries, whose analysis can be of forensic interest, especially in cases of suspected malpractice. In this scoping review, we briefly describe the main applications of the two most common post-mortem radiological techniques (computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) to the forensic investigation of brain and spinal injuries in cases of medical malpractice or traumatic (accidental/homicidal/suicidal) deaths. Although CT represents the traditional approach to post-mortem imaging, MRI is proving to be a valuable tool to investigate brain and spinal injuries and lesions. These post-mortem radiological techniques can also be used to guide the surgeons in simulated surgical procedures on corpses in the context of training programs, thus helping operators to improve technical and non-technical skills and to reduce the risk of avoidable errors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Azmitia
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Grassi
- Legal Medicine, Department of Healthcare surveillance and Bioethics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Signorelli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Filograna
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Molecular Imaging and Radiotherapy, PTV Foundation, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pascali
- Legal Medicine, Department of Healthcare surveillance and Bioethics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Olivi
- Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Oliva
- Legal Medicine, Department of Healthcare surveillance and Bioethics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
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12
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Pletenetska A, Varfolomeiev Y, Demchenko I. ANALYSIS OF DEFECTS IN THE FORENSIC MEDICAL ASSESSMENT OF CHANGES DISCOVERED DURING THE EXAMINATION OF PERSONS WHO DIED FROM TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY. WIADOMOSCI LEKARSKIE (WARSAW, POLAND : 1960) 2023; 76:1978-1983. [PMID: 37898933 DOI: 10.36740/wlek202309111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim: To identify the main groups of expert defects that arise during the forensic assessment of changes detected during the examination of persons who died from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and methods: A total of 102 repeated commission forensic medical examinations with changed conclusions in corpses with TBI were analyzed. Data processing and analysis were conducted using statistical methods. RESULTS Results: The examined forensic medical assessments of TBI with changed conclusions in corpses were categorized into the following groups: defects in estab¬lishing the diagnosis of TBI - 17.65±7.4%; defects in establishing the mechanism of TBI - 35.3±9.3%; defects in establishing the duration of TBI - 39.22±9.5%: sober - 20±12.4%; with alcohol intoxication - 80±12.4%. A combination of defects was found in 7.83±5.2% of cases. Defects that directly affected the experts' incorrect establishment of the diagnosis, mechanism, and duration of TBI were also identified. CONCLUSION Conclusions: The largest number of changed conclusions during the forensic medical examination of corpses in cases of TBI was due to the wrongly established duration of the trauma, accounting for 39.2±9.5%, with the vast majority of cases (80±12.4%) observed against the background of alcohol intoxication. The mechanism of trauma accounted for 35.3±9.3% of the changed conclusions. The main defects were incomplete collection of material for histological examination (90.2±5.8%) and incorrect interpretation of the results of histological examination (76.48±8.2%), along with the violation of the method of sectional examination (68.6±9.0%). Different groups of expert defects predominated in the cases with an incorrectly established diagnosis of TBI, duration of trauma, and mechanism.
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13
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Old and Promising Markers Related to Autophagy in Traumatic Brain Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010072. [PMID: 36613513 PMCID: PMC9820105 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the first causes of death and disability in the world. Because of the lack of macroscopical or histologic evidence of the damage, the forensic diagnosis of TBI could be particularly difficult. Considering that the activation of autophagy in the brain after a TBI is well documented in literature, the aim of this review is to find all autophagy immunohistological protein markers that are modified after TBI to propose a method to diagnose this eventuality in the brain of trauma victims. A systematic literature review on PubMed following PRISMA 2020 guidelines has enabled the identification of 241 articles. In all, 21 of these were enrolled to identify 24 markers that could be divided into two groups. The first consisted of well-known markers that could be considered for a first diagnosis of TBI. The second consisted of new markers recently proposed in the literature that could be used in combination with the markers of the first group to define the elapsed time between trauma and death. However, the use of these markers has to be validated in the future in human tissue by further studies, and the influence of other diseases affecting the victims before death should be explored.
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Chen Q, Chen X, Xu L, Zhang R, Li Z, Yue X, Qiao D. Traumatic axonal injury: neuropathological features, postmortem diagnostic methods, and strategies. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2022; 18:530-544. [PMID: 36117238 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-022-00522-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has high morbidity and poor prognosis and imposes a serious socioeconomic burden. Traumatic axonal injury (TAI), which is one of the common pathological changes in the primary injury of TBI, is often caused by the external force to the head that causes the white matter bundles to generate shear stress and tension; resulting in tissue damage and leading to the cytoskeletal disorder. At present, the forensic pathological diagnosis of TAI-caused death is still a difficult problem. Most of the TAI biomarkers studied are used for the prediction, evaluation, and prognosis of TAI in the living state. The research subjects are mainly humans in the living state or model animals, which are not suitable for the postmortem diagnosis of TAI. In addition, there is still a lack of recognized indicators for the autopsy pathological diagnosis of TAI. Different diagnostic methods and markers have their limitations, and there is a lack of systematic research and summary of autopsy diagnostic markers of TAI. Therefore, this study mainly summarizes the pathological mechanism, common methods, techniques of postmortem diagnosis, and corresponding biomarkers of TAI, and puts forward the strategies for postmortem diagnosis of TAI for forensic cases with different survival times, which is of great significance to forensic pathological diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianling Chen
- School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, South Shaitai Road #1023, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuebing Chen
- School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, South Shaitai Road #1023, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Luyao Xu
- School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, South Shaitai Road #1023, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, South Shaitai Road #1023, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- Guangzhou Forensic Science Institute & Key Laboratory of Forensic Pathology, Ministry of Public Security, Guangzhou, 510442, China.
| | - Xia Yue
- School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, South Shaitai Road #1023, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Dongfang Qiao
- School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, South Shaitai Road #1023, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
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15
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Ferrara M, Bertozzi G, Volonnino G, Di Fazio N, Frati P, Cipolloni L, La Russa R, Fineschi V. Glymphatic System a Window on TBI Pathophysiology: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169138. [PMID: 36012401 PMCID: PMC9408940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, the attention of the scientific world has focused on a clearance system of brain waste metabolites, called the glymphatic system, based on its similarity to the lymphatic system in peripheral tissue and the relevant role of the AQP4 glial channels and described for the first time in 2012. Consequently, numerous studies focused on its role in organ damage in cases of neuropathologies, including TBI. Methods: To evaluate the role that the glymphatic system has in the pathogenesis of TBI, on 23 March 2022, a systematic review of the literature according to PRISMA guidelines was carried out using the SCOPUS and Medline (via PubMed) databases, resulting in 12 articles after the selection process. Discussion and conclusion: The present review demonstrated that an alteration of AQP4 is associated with the accumulation of substances S100b, GFAP, and NSE, known markers of TBI in the forensic field. In addition, the alteration of the functionality of AQP4 favors edema, which, as already described, constitutes alterations of secondary brain injuries. Moreover, specific areas of the brain were demonstrated to be prone to alterations of the glymphatic pathway, suggesting their involvement in post-TBI damage. Therefore, further studies are mandatory. In this regard, a study protocol on cadavers is also proposed, based on the analyzed evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Ferrara
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Gianpietro Volonnino
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Di Fazio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Raffaele La Russa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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16
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Ketamine in Acute Brain Injury: Current Opinion Following Cerebral Circulation and Electrical Activity. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10030566. [PMID: 35327044 PMCID: PMC8949520 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10030566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of ketamine in patients with TBI has often been argued due to its possible deleterious effects on cerebral circulation and perfusion. Early studies suggested that ketamine could increase intracranial pressure, decreasing cerebral perfusion pressure and thereby reducing oxygen supply to the damaged cerebral cortex. Some recent studies have refuted these conclusions relating to the role of ketamine, especially in patients with TBI, showing that ketamine should be the first-choice drug in this type of patient at induction. Our narrative review collects evidence on ketamine’s use in patients with TBI. Databases were examined for studies in which ketamine had been used in acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). The outcomes considered in this narrative review were: mortality of patients with TBI; impact on intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure; blood pressure and heart rate values; depolarization rate; and preserved neurological functions. 11 recent studies passed inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in this review. Despite all the benefits reported in the literature, the use of ketamine in patients with brain injury still appears to be limited. A slight increase in intracranial pressure was found in only two studies, while two smaller studies showed a reduction in intracranial pressure after ketamine administration. There was no evidence of harm from the ketamine’s use in patients with TBI.
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17
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Ferrara M, Bertozzi G, Zanza C, Longhitano Y, Piccolella F, Lauritano CE, Volonnino G, Manetti AC, Maiese A, La Russa R. Traumatic Brain Injury and Gut Brain Axis: The Disruption of an Alliance. Rev Recent Clin Trials 2022; 17:268-279. [PMID: 35733301 DOI: 10.2174/1574887117666220622143423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be considered a "silent epidemic", causing morbidity, disability, and mortality in all age cohorts. Therefore, a greater understanding of the underlying pathophysiological intricate mechanisms and interactions with other organs and systems is necessary to intervene not only in the treatment but also in the prevention of complications. In this complex of reciprocal interactions, the complex brain-gut axis has captured a growing interest. SCOPE The purpose of this manuscript is to examine and systematize existing evidence regarding the pathophysiological processes that occur following TBI and the influences exerted on these by the brain-gut axis. LITERATURE REVIEW A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to the PRISMA methodology. On the 8th of October 2021, two independent databases were searched: PubMed and Scopus. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria selected, 24 (12 from PubMed and 12 from Scopus) eligible manuscripts were included in the present review. Moreover, references from the selected articles were also updated following the criteria mentioned above, yielding 91 included manuscripts. DISCUSSION Published evidence suggests that the brain and gut are mutually influenced through four main pathways: microbiota, inflammatory, nervous, and endocrine. CONCLUSION These pathways are bidirectional and interact with each other. However, the studies conducted so far mainly involve animals. An autopsy methodological approach to corpses affected by traumatic brain injury or intestinal pathology could represent the keystone for future studies to clarify the complex pathophysiological processes underlying the interaction between these two main systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Ferrara
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Italy
| | - Christian Zanza
- Foundation of "Ospedale Alba-Bra Onlus and Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care and Emergency Medicine- "Michele and Pietro Ferrero Hospital" Verduno, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Yaroslava Longhitano
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care - AON SS Antonio and Biagio and Cesare Arrigo Hospital- Alessandria, Italy
| | - Fabio Piccolella
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care - AON SS Antonio and Biagio and Cesare Arrigo Hospital- Alessandria, Italy
| | - Cristiano Ernesto Lauritano
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care - AON SS Antonio and Biagio and Cesare Arrigo Hospital- Alessandria, Italy
| | - Gianpietro Volonnino
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Alice Chiara Manetti
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Raffaele La Russa
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Italy
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18
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Cioffi A, de Simone S, Cipolloni L, Baldari B. Accidental identification of peritoneal encapsulation during an autopsy after a car accident. Med Leg J 2021; 90:106-108. [PMID: 34786996 DOI: 10.1177/00258172211053125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Peritoneal encapsulation is a rare congenital pathological condition. Typical of this pathology is the presence of an accessory peritoneal flap that encloses the entire mass of the small intestine. Subjects with this condition often do not show symptoms and, in most cases, finding of it is accidental. We report a case of peritoneal encapsulation, not previously identified and found during an autopsy; the deceased, positive for HIV and affected by a Kaposi's sarcoma, died following a road accident. Unlike other cases in the literature, the peritoneum encapsulated all abdominal organs and not only small intestines. Notwithstanding, there were no signs of intestinal ischaemia or intestinal obstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cioffi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania de Simone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Baldari
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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19
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Aromatario M, Torsello A, D’Errico S, Bertozzi G, Sessa F, Cipolloni L, Baldari B. Traumatic Epidural and Subdural Hematoma: Epidemiology, Outcome, and Dating. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:medicina57020125. [PMID: 33535407 PMCID: PMC7912597 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57020125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Epidural hematomas (EDHs) and subdural hematomas (SDHs), or so-called extra-axial bleedings, are common clinical entities after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). A forensic pathologist often analyzes cases of traumatic EDHs or SDHs due to road accidents, suicides, homicides, assaults, domestic or on-the-job accidents, and even in a medical responsibility scenario. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the published data in the medical literature, useful to forensic pathologists. We mainly focused on the data from the last 15 years, and considered the most updated protocols and diagnostic-therapeutic tools. This study reviews the epidemiology, outcome, and dating of extra-axial hematomas in the adult population; studies on the controversial interdural hematoma are also included.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Torsello
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Ospedale Colonnello D’Avanzo, Via degli Aviatori 1, 71100 Foggia, Italy; (A.T.); (F.S.); (L.C.)
| | - Stefano D’Errico
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Ospedale Colonnello D’Avanzo, Via degli Aviatori 1, 71100 Foggia, Italy; (A.T.); (F.S.); (L.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesco Sessa
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Ospedale Colonnello D’Avanzo, Via degli Aviatori 1, 71100 Foggia, Italy; (A.T.); (F.S.); (L.C.)
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Ospedale Colonnello D’Avanzo, Via degli Aviatori 1, 71100 Foggia, Italy; (A.T.); (F.S.); (L.C.)
| | - Benedetta Baldari
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00186 Rome, Italy;
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20
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Young G. Thirty Complexities and Controversies in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Persistent Post-concussion Syndrome: a Roadmap for Research and Practice. PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY & LAW 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12207-020-09395-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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21
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Sessa F, Salerno M, Bertozzi G, Cipolloni L, Messina G, Aromatario M, Polo L, Turillazzi E, Pomara C. miRNAs as Novel Biomarkers of Chronic Kidney Injury in Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Users: An Experimental Study. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:563756. [PMID: 33041804 PMCID: PMC7525215 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.563756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
miRNAs are a family of 20–22 non-coding nucleotides that control gene expression by inhibiting the translation of their target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). Two models have been proposed to elucidate the mechanism of action: they act either hindering mRNA translation or enhancing mRNA degradation. Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AASs) represent a class of drugs used to treat several diseases. In the last few years, AASs have frequently been used for aesthetic purposes, indeed, they form part of the larger group called image- and performance-enhancing drugs (IPEDs). Long-term AAS use can lead to serious health consequences. In this regard, the present study aimed to analyze the role of several microRNAs (miRNAs) in renal damage after AAS use, to better understand the underlying mechanisms. For this purpose, two miRNAs (miR-21 and miR-205) were tested in two groups: AAS group (seven males, mean age 33.28 ± 4.68 years; mean body mass index (BMI) 27.04 ± 1.07), and chronic kidney disease (CKD) group (seven males, mean age 66.2 ± 5.4 years; mean BMI 24.75 ± 1.35). Finally, the same miRNAs were tested in the “Control” group (seven males, mean age 44.85 ± 5.75 years; mean BMI 26.5 ± 1.88). Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test was used to determine the normality of data distribution. All variables were normally distributed. Student’s t-test was used for comparisons between two groups. Analyzing the results of the present study, the two tested miRNAs (miR-21 and miR-205) were significantly higher in the CKD group compared to the AAS group, with mir-21 being much more expressed than miR-205. This study represents a pilot study to define if these expression patterns could be studied in other biological samples (plasma, urine) in subjects with different kidney injury linked to chronic kidney diseases and AAS use, to identify reliable biomarkers that could be applied in clinical and forensic diagnostics, as well as a target for toxicological investigations or therapeutic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Aromatario
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Polo
- Brain srl, Services and Consultancy in Health, Pavia, Italy
| | - Emanuela Turillazzi
- Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cristoforo Pomara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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22
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Sessa F, Salerno M, Cipolloni L, Bertozzi G, Messina G, Mizio GD, Asmundo A, Pomara C. Anabolic-androgenic steroids and brain injury: miRNA evaluation in users compared to cocaine abusers and elderly people. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:15314-15327. [PMID: 32756006 PMCID: PMC7467388 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) can be used to treat both hormonal diseases and other pathologies characterized by muscle loss (aging, cancer, and AIDS). Even if the adverse effects related to the misuse of AASs have been well studied in different systems and apparatuses, knowledge about brain damage is poor.In this scenario, this experimental study aimed to analyze the role of several microRNAs (miRNAs) in brain damage after AAS misuse, to better comprehend the underlying mechanisms. The research hypothesis at the base of this experimental study is that the chronic use of AASs may be associated to brain damage with a dysregulation of these miRNAs. Moreover, miRNA expression values were compared among three different groups, "AAS" group, "Cocaine" group and "Aging" group, in order to define if AAS brain damage can be compared with the brain impairment linked to aging and/or cocaine assumption.This experimental study revealed that the tested miRNAs (hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-34a-5p, hsa-miR-124-5p, hsa-miR-132-3p, and hsa-miR-144-3p) were overexpressed in all enrolled groups. In the light of the presented results, the identification of specific circulating and/or tissue biomarkers is challenging for the scientific community. Further studies with larger samples are needed to confirm these interesting findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, Catania 95121, Italy
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Giulio Di Mizio
- Department of Legal, Historical, Economic and Social Sciences, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro 88100, Italy
| | - Alessio Asmundo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences, and of Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Messina, Messina 98121, Italy
| | - Cristoforo Pomara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, Catania 95121, Italy
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