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Varshney N, Berweger S, Chuang J, Blandino S, Wang J, Pazare N, Gentile C, Golmie N. Adaptive Channel-State-Information Feedback in Integrated Sensing and Communication Systems. IEEE Internet Things J 2023; 10:22469-22486. [PMID: 38348220 PMCID: PMC10860372 DOI: 10.1109/jiot.2023.3304545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Efficient design of integrated sensing and communication systems can minimize signaling overhead by reducing the size and/or rate of feedback in reporting channel state information (CSI). To minimize the signaling overhead when performing sensing operations at the transmitter, this paper proposes a procedure to reduce the feedback rate. We consider a threshold-based sensing measurement and reporting procedure, such that the CSI is transmitted only if the channel variation exceeds a threshold. However, quantifying the channel variation, determining the threshold, and recovering sensing information with a lower feedback rate are still open problems. In this paper, we first quantify the channel variation by considering several metrics including the Euclidean distance, time-reversal resonating strength, and frequency-reversal resonating strength. We then design an algorithm to adaptively select a threshold, minimizing the feedback rate, while guaranteeing sufficient sensing accuracy by reconstructing high-quality signatures of human movement. To improve sensing accuracy with irregular channel measurements, we further propose two reconstruction schemes, which can be easily employed at the transmitter in case there is no feedback available from the receiver. Finally, the sensing performance of our scheme is extensively evaluated through real and synthetic channel measurements, considering channel estimation and synchronization errors. Our results show that the amount of feedback can be reduced by 50% while maintaining good sensing performance in terms of range and velocity estimations. Moreover, in contrast to other schemes, we show that the Euclidean distance metric is better able to capture various human movements with high channel variation values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeraj Varshney
- Radio Access and Propagation Metrology Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA and contractor with Prometheus Computing LLC, Cullowhee, NC USA
| | - Samuel Berweger
- Communications Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA
| | - Jack Chuang
- Radio Access and Propagation Metrology Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA
| | - Steve Blandino
- Radio Access and Propagation Metrology Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA and contractor with Prometheus Computing LLC, Cullowhee, NC USA
- Communications Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA
| | - Jian Wang
- Radio Access and Propagation Metrology Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA
| | - Neha Pazare
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, USA
| | - Camillo Gentile
- Radio Access and Propagation Metrology Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA
| | - Nada Golmie
- Communications Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-6730 USA
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Wang J, Varshney N, Gentile C, Blandino S, Chuang J, Golmie N. Integrated Sensing and Communication: Enabling Techniques, Applications, Tools and Data Sets, Standardization, and Future Directions. IEEE Internet Things J 2022; 9:10.1109/jiot.2022.3190845. [PMID: 37275265 PMCID: PMC10236932 DOI: 10.1109/jiot.2022.3190845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The design of integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) systems has drawn recent attention for its capacity to solve a number of challenges. Indeed, ISAC can enable numerous benefits, such as the sharing of spectrum resources, hardware, and software, and improving the interoperability of sensing and communication. In this article, we seek to provide a thorough investigation of ISAC. We begin by reviewing the paradigms of sensing-centric design, communication-centric design, and co-design of sensing and communication. We then explore the enabling techniques that are viable for ISAC (i.e., transmit waveform design, environment modeling, sensing source, signal processing, and data processing). We also present some emergent smart-world applications that could benefit from ISAC. Furthermore, we describe some prominent tools used to collect sensing data and publicly available sensing data sets for research and development, as well as some standardization efforts. Finally, we highlight some challenges and new areas of research in ISAC, providing a helpful reference for ISAC researchers and practitioners, as well as the broader research and industry communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Wireless Networks Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Neeraj Varshney
- Wireless Networks Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Camillo Gentile
- Wireless Networks Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Steve Blandino
- Wireless Networks Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Jack Chuang
- Wireless Networks Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Nada Golmie
- Wireless Networks Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
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Apponi A, Betti M, Borghesi M, Boyarsky A, Canci N, Cavoto G, Chang C, Cheianov V, Cheipesh Y, Chung W, Cocco A, Colijn A, D’Ambrosio N, de Groot N, Esposito A, Faverzani M, Ferella A, Ferri E, Ficcadenti L, Frederico T, Gariazzo S, Gatti F, Gentile C, Giachero A, Hochberg Y, Kahn Y, Lisanti M, Mangano G, Marcucci L, Mariani C, Marques M, Menichetti G, Messina M, Mikulenko O, Monticone E, Nucciotti A, Orlandi D, Pandolfi F, Parlati S, Pepe C, Pérez de los Heros C, Pisanti O, Polini M, Polosa A, Puiu A, Rago I, Raitses Y, Rajteri M, Rossi N, Rozwadowska K, Rucandio I, Ruocco A, Strid C, Tan A, Teles L, Tozzini V, Tully C, Viviani M, Zeitler U, Zhao F. Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle in the PTOLEMY project: A theory update. Int J Clin Exp Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1103/physrevd.106.053002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Attaway C, El-Sharkawy Navarro F, Richard-Greenblatt M, Herlihy S, Gentile C, Glaser L, Morris B, Abella B, Collman R. Comparison of Saliva and Nasopharyngeal Swabs for SARS-CoV-2 Detection in an Emergency Department and Ambulatory Testing Locations. Am J Clin Pathol 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqab191.269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction/Objective
Nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs have been the traditional specimen source used for testing for respiratory viruses. However, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, several studies suggested that saliva could also be used as a specimen source for testing for SARS-CoV-2. Despite potential benefits, there was limited data on the characteristics of this specimen type and few commercial assays with FDA emergency use authorization allowed saliva as a specimen source. In order to explore the feasibility and validate using saliva as a specimen source for ambulatory and emergency department patients we designed a study to compare saliva to NP swabs for SARS-CoV-2 testing.
Methods/Case Report
Specimens were collected in the emergency department and ambulatory testing sites between May 6, 2020-July 7, 2020. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected as part of routine clinical practice and patients were given written instructions to self-collect 1mL of saliva into a sterile specimen cup with or without a straw. SARS-CoV-2 testing was performed in parallel with both specimen types using the TaqPath COVID-19 Combo Kit (Thermo Fisher Waltham, MA). Saliva was diluted 1:1 in saline prior to testing. Specimens were transported to the lab at 4C and frozen at -80C prior to testing.
Results (if a Case Study enter NA)
Seventy-four patients had both an NP swab and saliva tested in this study. Thirty of the 74 patients (41%) were unable to produce the full 1mL of saliva requested, but all samples had sufficient volume for testing after dilution. There were 34 positive samples obtained with an 82% positive agreement between the NP swabs and saliva. In 6 cases, the NP swab was positive, and the paired saliva was negative. In 1 case, only the saliva was positive. The average Ct of the positive NP swabs with a paired negative saliva sample was 39.6. There was only a single invalid test for one of the saliva samples.
Conclusion
Saliva was a straightforward sample to collect and test for SARS-CoV-2. Challenges included obtaining sufficient sample and a less predictable matrix that required dilution to ensure proper pipeting. In this study, NP swabs were more sensitive for detection of SARS-CoV-2. Paired saliva was more often negative in patients shedding small amounts of SARS-CoV-2 based on a high Ct of the positive NP sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Attaway
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - F El-Sharkawy Navarro
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - M Richard-Greenblatt
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - S Herlihy
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - C Gentile
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - L Glaser
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - B Morris
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - B Abella
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
| | - R Collman
- Department of Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine and Division of of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine,University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES
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Petriglia C, Vaiarelli A, Cimadomo D, Gentile C, Fiorini F, Sansone A, Uher P, Masip MA, Chelo E, Pellegrini S, Ubaldi N, Gennarelli G, Revelli A, Brodin T, Ubaldi FM. P–304 The endometrial preparation protocol does not affect the live-birth-rate after vitrified-warmed euploid single blastocyst transfers: an analysis of 1884 procedures. Hum Reprod 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab130.303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study question
Is the live-birth-rate (LBR) different when comparing artificial (AC) and modified-natural (M-NC) cycle for endometrial preparation to vitrified-warmed euploid blastocyst transfer?
Summary answer
The LBR after vitrified-warmed euploid blastocyst transfer seem independent of the endometrial preparation administered.
What is known already
Only the transfer of a competent embryo on a receptive endometrium might result in successful implantation. Three main protocols for endometrial preparation to vitrified-warmed embryo transfer exist: NC, M-NC, and AC. None among them, though, has been shown more appropriate than the others to date, especially since, only in a few studies, the analysis was restricted to single euploid blastocyst transfers to limit the impact of embryonic issues on implantation. In conclusion, no clear consensus exists and the choice is still largely based on menstrual/ovarian cycle characteristics and patient’s needs.
Study design, size, duration
All first vitrified-warmed single euploid blastocyst transfers performed between April–2013 and March–2020 were included in the analysis. Endometrial preparation was conducted with either an AC (N = 1211) or a M-NC (N = 673). The protocol was chosen based on patients’ logistical reasons. The primary outcome was the LBR per transfer. Sub-analyses based on blastocyst quality and day of development were conducted. Birthweight, gestational age, gestational and perinatal issues were secondary outcomes.
Participants/materials, setting, methods
AC: oral estradiol-valerate 3-times/day from day2–3 of the cycle until the endometrial thickness reached ≥7mm, then 600 mg/day of micronized progesterone. The transfer was conducted on day6 of progesterone administration. M-NC: an intramuscular dose of 10,000IU hCG was administrated when the leading follicle was >17 mm and the endometrium was thicker than 7mm and trilaminar, plus 400 mg/day of micronized-progesterone as luteal phase support starting 36–40hr post-hCG. The transfer was conducted on day7 after trigger.
Main results and the role of chance
The two groups were similar for maternal age at retrieval (38.0±3.3yr) and transfer (38.3±3.3yr), reproductive history, embryological outcomes of the IVF cycle, body-mass-index, basal hormonal levels, and blastocyst features (Gardner’s classification: AA = 73%, AB/BA=11%, BB/AC/CA=8%, CC/BC/CB=8%; day5=48%, day6=47%, day7=5%). The LBR was 46.7% (N = 565/1211) and 49.9% (N = 336/673) after AC and M-NC, respectively, resulting in an odds-ratio 1.14, 95%CI:0.94–1.37. The absence of significant differences was confirmed also when adjusted for blastocyst quality and day of full-development (1.16, 95%CI:0.96–1.41). Among the 565 and 336 deliveries, the birthweight was similar (3290.3±470.7 versus 3251.7±521.5 g, Mann-Whitney-U-test=0.5), the gestational age was similar (38.5±1.7 versus 38.4±1.9 weeks, Mann-Whitney-U-test=0.5). Also, the rates of newborns who were normal (81% versus 82%), large (8% versus 9%), and small (11% versus 9%) for gestational age were similar (Chi-squared-test=0.5). The rates of patients experiencing gestational (6% versus 7%) and/or perinatal issues (3% versus 3%) were also similar (Fisher’s-exact-tests=0.4).
Limitations, reasons for caution
This is a retrospective study conducted in poor prognosis patients indicated to preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies. Future randomized controlled trials and cost-effectiveness analysis are desirable, as well as studies in different patient populations. Lastly, each gestational/perinatal issue shall be analyzed per se (e.g. different placentation disorders).
Wider implications of the findings: The absence of clinical and perinatal differences between the two protocols for endometrial preparation supports the adoption, whenever needed, of AC. This approach, in fact, allows a higher flexibility in patients’ and daily workload management.
Trial registration number
None
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Affiliation(s)
- C Petriglia
- Clinica Valle GIulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy
| | - A Vaiarelli
- Clinica Valle GIulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy
| | - D Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle GIulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy
| | - C Gentile
- Genera Veneto, GeneraLife IVF, Marostica, Italy
| | - F Fiorini
- Genera Umbria, GeneraLife IVF, Umbertide, Italy
| | - A Sansone
- Clinica Ruesch, GeneraLife IVF, Naples, Italy
| | - P Uher
- FertiCare, GeneraLife IVF, Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic
| | | | - E Chelo
- Demetra, GeneraLife IVF, Florence, Italy
| | | | - N Ubaldi
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - T Brodin
- Carl von Linnèkliniken, GeneraLife IVF, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - F M Ubaldi
- Clinica Valle GIulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy
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Varshney N, Wang J, Lai C, Gentile C, Charbonnier R, Corre Y. Quasi-Deterministic Channel Propagation Model for an Urban Environment at 28 GHz. IEEE Antennas Wirel Propag Lett 2021; 20:10.1109/lawp.2021.3073880. [PMID: 37719441 PMCID: PMC10502687 DOI: 10.1109/lawp.2021.3073880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
We reduced the parameters of the Quasi-Deterministic channel propagation model, recently adopted by the IEEE 802.11ay task group for next-generation Wi-Fi at millimeter-wave (mmWave), from measurements collected in an urban environment with our 28 GHz switched-array channel sounder. In the process-as a novel contribution-we extended the clustering of channel rays from the conventional delay and angle domains to the location domain of the receiver, over which the measurements were collected. By comparing channel realizations from the model to realizations from a leading commercial ray-tracer, we demonstrated that the model effects no detriment to accuracy while maintaining the benefit of significantly reduced complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeraj Varshney
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Jian Wang
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Chiehping Lai
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Camillo Gentile
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
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Farello G, Iapadre G, Lizzi M, Gentile C, Altobelli E, Ciocca F, Verrotti A. Carotid intima media-thickness is increased in obese children metabolically healthy, metabolically unhealthy, and with metabolic syndrome, compared to the non-obese controls. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2021; 25:241-249. [PMID: 33506913 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202101_24390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity continues to increase. Obesity is associated with cardiovascular risk factors: elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia and glycemic alterations, causing metabolic syndrome. A subgroup of obese, Metabolically Healthy Obese (MHO), appears to be less prone to the development of metabolic disturbances. Carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) is a non-invasive marker of subclinical atherosclerosis and it is associated with increased risk of CVD events. To investigate the cardiovascular risk, demonstrated through the increase of cIMT in obese subjects without Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), we have studied cIMT in MHO, metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) and obese with MetS diagnosed with the IDEFICS criteria and compared to a control group. 224 obese children aged 6 to 21 years (13,50 ± 4.01 years) and 103 normal weight subjects aged 7 to 19 years (13.2 ± 4.1 years) were studied. The body mass index (BMI) of the obese children was ≥ the 95th percentile. Based on the IDEFICS criteria, we divided the obese subjects in three groups: MHO if no criteria were out of range, MUO if, at least, one of the criteria was out of range and MetS group if all the IDEFICS criteria were present. In all the subjects cIMT was measured with color Doppler by a vascular surgeon. Differences in the means of the variables were tested by ANOVA. Based on the IDEFICS criteria, 32 subjects were affected by MetS (14..3%), 66 were considered MUO (29.4%) and 126 MHO (56.3%). Comparison of mean cIMT highlighted a significant difference (p < 0.05) between the groups of obese children (MHO, MUO and MetS) and controls for both carotid arteries. We did not find significative difference in the value of cIMT in MHO, MUO and MetS subjects, and all groups showed cIMT value higher compared to cIMT of the controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Farello
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences - Pediatric Unit, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
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Ruggieri S, Tagliaferri V, Taccaliti C, Gentile C, Didonna T, D'Asta M, Legge F, Guida P, Scambia G, Guido M. Comparison between Delayed Absorbable and Permanent Sutures in Laparoscopic Sacral Colpopexy: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2020.08.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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9
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D'Asta M, Tagliaferri V, Romano F, Martulli B, Gentile C, Taccaliti C, Ruggieri S, Scambia G, Guido M. Laparoscopic Sacral Colpopexy versus Pelvic Organ Prolapse Suspension: A Randomized Phase II Trial for Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2018.09.751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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10
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Rouil R, Garey W, Gentile C, Golmie N, Schwinghammer P. Increasing Public Safety Broadband Network Resiliency Through Traffic Control. Digit Commun Netw 2018; 4:10.1016/j.dcan.2017.09.005. [PMID: 38495632 PMCID: PMC10941297 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcan.2017.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Long Term Evolution (LTE)-based cellular networks are being deployed around the world to provide public safety with enhanced capabilities and access to broadband technology. In the United States, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) is on the verge of deploying a nationwide network called the National Public Safety Broadband Network (NPSBN). Commercial networks typically aim at maximizing network capacity, i.e. the aggregate data rate, in order to increase revenue. In public safety networks, however, coverage, not capacity, is paramount, especially during an outage when sites are down. Through traffic control and preemption, the service level of low-priority users is reduced or denied, freeing up resources to restore coverage to high-priority users, e.g. users responding to an incident. In this study, we examine the effect of outages on network coverage and throughput. As our main contribution, we propose three traffic-control schemes that exploit variable modulation and coding, a feature that LTE enhances with respect to its 3G predecessors. The schemes differ based on the proportion of low- and high-priority users preempted. We show that indeed the network coverage can be restored significantly and we investigate the tradeoff between the three schemes. Finally, we perform sensitivity analysis to confirm the effectiveness of the schemes across a wide range of scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Rouil
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, USA
| | - W Garey
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, USA
| | - C Gentile
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, USA
| | - N Golmie
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, USA
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11
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Raftopoulos
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, PO Box 451, Princeton, New Jersey 08543
| | - C. Gentile
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, PO Box 451, Princeton, New Jersey 08543
| | - P. LaMarche
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, PO Box 451, Princeton, New Jersey 08543
| | - J. Langford
- General Physics Corporation (on assignment to PPPL), Aiken, SC 29803
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12
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Di Stasio D, Romano AN, Paparella RS, Gentile C, Minervini G, Serpico R, Candotto V, Laino L. How social media meet patients questions: YouTube review for children oral thrush. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2018; 32:101-106. [PMID: 29460525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
YouTube is increasingly being used by patients to obtain health-related information. No studies have evaluated the content of YouTube videos on children oral thrush. The aim of this work is to examine the quality of information offered by this platform about oral thrush in children. Searching term oral thrush in children (OTC) displayed a total of 2.790 results. Of the top 60 videos analyzed, 27 were excluded. The main source of upload was from generalist information YouTube® channels (GC) followed by healthcare professionals (HP), individual users (IU), and healthcare information channels (HC); usefulness of videos is successfully correlated with the number of visualization, number of likes and viewing rate and was interdependent with the number of visualizations, number of likes and VR. However, videos on the oral thrush do not have satisfactory quality information. HP themselves, along with HC, do not seem to provide more appropriate information on COT, than GC or IU.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Di Stasio
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - A N Romano
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - R S Paparella
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - C Gentile
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - G Minervini
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - R Serpico
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - V Candotto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - L Laino
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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13
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Di Stasio D, Romano A, Gentile C, Maio C, Lucchese A, Serpico R, Paparella R, Minervini G, Candotto V, Laino L. Systemic and topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) on oral mucosa lesions: an overview. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2018; 32:123-126. [PMID: 29460529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive treatment that has shown promising results in treating preneoplasticlesions. PDT reckons on the administration of a drug (photosensitizer), which can be used in a topical or systemic form. Photodynamic therapy has been successfully used in the management of a variety of pathologies from different anatomical sites, including the head, neck, brain and lungs, hepatobiliary tree and other gastrointestinal and urological pathologies, skin, gynaecological conditions and in vascular anomalies. Starting from these same considerations, PDT has also been adopted for oral malignant and premalignant lesions treatment, and should be kept under investigation as a promising therapeutic management of leukoplakia and preneoplastic lesions of the oral cavity.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Di Stasio
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - A Romano
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - C Gentile
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - C Maio
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - A Lucchese
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - R Serpico
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - R Paparella
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - G Minervini
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - V Candotto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - L Laino
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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Di Stasio D, Romano A, Paparella RS, Gentile C, Serpico R, Minervini G, Candotto V, Laino L. How social media meet patients questions: YouTube review for mouth sores in children. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2018; 32:117-121. [PMID: 29460528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is one of the most common causes of mouth sores in children so the management of this condition is a matter of great importance. YouTube is increasingly being used by patients to obtain health-related information. The aim of this work is to examine the quality of information offered by YouTube about mouth sores in children (MSC). Searching the term mouth sores in children, (MSC) displayed 12.300 results. Of the top 60 videos analyzed, 31 were excluded following exclusion criteria. The major source of upload was from healthcare information channels (HC-41,38%), followed by individual users (HP-25.59%), healthcare professionals (IU-17.24%) and generalist information channels (HC-13.78%); 20.69% of them deal with predisposing factors, and related pathologies, the majority of these propose home remedies (60.72%) rather than topical analgesic drugs (21.43%), antimicrobials (7.14%) and topical steroids (3.57). Most of the videos analyzed were slightly useful (68.97%). Information about mouth sores in children on YouTube was poor regardless of the upload source. Analyzing health content on social platforms is a starting point for providing greater quality of health-related information.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Di Stasio
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - A Romano
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - R S Paparella
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - C Gentile
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - R Serpico
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - G Minervini
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - V Candotto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - L Laino
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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15
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Zuo GZ, Hu JS, Maingi R, Yang QX, Sun Z, Huang M, Chen Y, Yuan XL, Meng XC, Xu W, Gentile C, Carpe A, Diallo A, Lunsford R, Mansfield D, Osborne T, Tritz K, Li JG. Upgraded flowing liquid lithium limiter for improving Li coverage uniformity and erosion resistance in EAST device. Rev Sci Instrum 2017; 88:123506. [PMID: 29289198 DOI: 10.1063/1.4997806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We report on design and technology improvements for a flowing liquid lithium (FLiLi) limiter inserted into auxiliary heated discharges in the experimental advanced superconducting tokamak device. In order to enhance Li coverage uniformity and erosion resistance, a new liquid Li distributor with homogenous channels was implemented. In addition, two independent electromagnetic pumps and a new horizontal capillary structure contributed to an improvement in the observed Li flow uniformity (from 30% in the previous FLiLi design to >80% in this FLiLi design). To improve limiter surface erosion resistance, hot isostatic press technology was applied, which improved the thermal contact between thin stainless steel protective layers covering the Cu heat sink. The thickness of the stainless steel layer was increased from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, which also helped macroscopic erosion resilience. Despite the high auxiliary heating power up to 4.5 MW, no Li bursts were recorded from FLiLi, underscoring the improved performance of this new design.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Z Zuo
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - J S Hu
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - R Maingi
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08543, USA
| | - Q X Yang
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Z Sun
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - M Huang
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - Y Chen
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - X L Yuan
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - X C Meng
- Department of Applied Physics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - W Xu
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
| | - C Gentile
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08543, USA
| | - A Carpe
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08543, USA
| | - A Diallo
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08543, USA
| | - R Lunsford
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08543, USA
| | - D Mansfield
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08543, USA
| | - T Osborne
- General Atomics, P.O. Box 85608, San Diego, California 92186-5608, USA
| | - K Tritz
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21211, USA
| | - J G Li
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui 230031, China
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16
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Perevezentsev A, Bell A, Brennan D, Miller A, Healer A, Gentile C, Ciebiera L, Langish S. Detritiation of the JET Carbon Tiles by Flame Heating. Fusion Science and Technology 2017. [DOI: 10.13182/fst05-42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Perevezentsev
- EURATOM/UKAEA Fusion Association, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, OX14 3DB, UK
| | - A. Bell
- EURATOM/UKAEA Fusion Association, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, OX14 3DB, UK
| | - D. Brennan
- EURATOM/UKAEA Fusion Association, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, OX14 3DB, UK
| | - A. Miller
- EURATOM/UKAEA Fusion Association, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, OX14 3DB, UK
| | - A. Healer
- EURATOM/UKAEA Fusion Association, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, OX14 3DB, UK
| | - C. Gentile
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, PO Box 451, Princeton, New Jersey, 08453, USA
| | - L. Ciebiera
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, PO Box 451, Princeton, New Jersey, 08453, USA
| | - S. Langish
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton University, PO Box 451, Princeton, New Jersey, 08453, USA
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17
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Raffray AR, Robson AE, Sethian J, Gentile C, Marriott E, Rose D, Sawan M. Laser IFE Direct Drive Chamber Concepts with Magnetic Intervention. Fusion Science and Technology 2017. [DOI: 10.13182/fst09-a8924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. R. Raffray
- University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0417,
| | - A. E. Robson
- Consultant, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375,
| | - J. Sethian
- Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375,
| | - C. Gentile
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Princeton, NJ 08543-0451,
| | - E. Marriott
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706,
| | - D. Rose
- Voss Scientific LLC, Albuquerque, NM 87108,
| | - M. Sawan
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706,
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Senic J, Gentile C, Papazian PB, Remley KA, Choi JK. Analysis of E-Band Path Loss and Propagation Mechanisms in the Indoor Environment. IEEE Trans Antennas Propag 2017; 65:10.1109/TAP.2017.2722876. [PMID: 31080271 PMCID: PMC6508688 DOI: 10.1109/tap.2017.2722876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Millimeter-wave transceivers will feature massive phased-array antennas whose pencilbeams can be steered toward the angle of arrival of the propagation path having the maximum power, exploiting their high gain to compensate for the greater path loss witnessed in the upper spectrum. For this reason, maximum-power path-loss models, in contrast to conventional ones based on the integrated power from an omnidirectional antenna, may be more relevant. Yet to our knowledge, they do not appear in the literature save for one reference. In this paper, we compare both model types at 83.5 GHz for four indoor environments typical of hotspot deployments in line-of-sight (LOS) and non-LOS conditions up to a range of 160 m. To fit the models, we conducted a measurement campaign with over 3000 different transmitter-receiver configurations using a custom-designed channel sounder capable of extracting the delay and 3-D angle of arrival of the received paths with super-resolution. The models are supported by a detailed analysis of the propagation mechanisms of direct transmission, reflection, and knife-edge diffraction to shed light on their interplay in the E-band regime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Senic
- Communications Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Boulder, CO 80305 USA
| | - Camillo Gentile
- Communications Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899 USA
| | - Peter B Papazian
- Communications Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Boulder, CO 80305 USA
| | - Kate A Remley
- Communications Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Boulder, CO 80305 USA
| | - Jae-Kark Choi
- Tactical Communications Team, Hanwha Systems, Gyeonggi-do 13524, South Korea
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19
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Gentile C, Reig C, Corona O, Todaro A, Mazzaglia A, Perrone A, Gianguzzi G, Agusti M, Farina V. Pomological Traits, Sensory Profile and Nutraceutical Properties of Nine Cultivars of Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) Fruits Grown in Mediterranean Area. Plant Foods Hum Nutr 2016; 71:330-338. [PMID: 27392960 DOI: 10.1007/s11130-016-0564-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In this paper the diversity of fruit quality within nine loquat cultivars, including five international affirmed cultivars (Algerie, Golden Nugget, Peluche, Bueno, El Buenet) and four local cultivars (Sanfilippara, Nespolone di Trabia, BRT20 and Claudia), were investigated in order to discriminate the variation in pomological characteristics, sensory profile, and antioxidant properties. Finally, to evaluate potential bioactivity, antiproliferative activity of hydrophilic extracts from loquat fruits was assessed, at dietary relevant concentrations, against three human epithelial cell lines. Even though the international cultivars confirmed an appropriate level of commercial qualities in association to high levels in antioxidant compounds, the local cultivars revealed the best performances in a wide range of chemical-physical and sensory characteristics. Concerning bioactivity, our results indicate that hydrophilic extracts from all tested cultivars showed concentration-dependent antiproliferative activity with a significant variability of effects between different cell lines and between different cultivars. HeLa cells, the most sensitive and hydrophilic extracts from Peluche, showed the highest inhibitory effect followed by Nespolone di Trabia and Claudia. The results of this trial provide useful information on the pomological traits and the not yet known specific nutritional and functional properties of loquat fruits. Our data, besides helping to promote specific local cultivars, could serve to establish a database that will permit to improve the utilization of specific genetic resources in breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gentile
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128, Palermo, Italy
| | - C Reig
- Instituto Agroforestal Mediterraneo, Universidad Politecnica de Valencia, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - O Corona
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Forestali, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128, Palermo, Italy.
| | - A Todaro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Forestali, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128, Palermo, Italy
| | - A Mazzaglia
- Dipartimento di Scienze delle Produzioni Agrarie e Alimentari, Università degli Studi di Catania, Via Valdisavoia 5, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - A Perrone
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128, Palermo, Italy
| | - G Gianguzzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Forestali, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128, Palermo, Italy
| | - M Agusti
- Instituto Agroforestal Mediterraneo, Universidad Politecnica de Valencia, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - V Farina
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Forestali, Università degli Studi di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128, Palermo, Italy
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20
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Trofe-Clark J, Sparkes T, Gentile C, Van Deerlin V, Sawinski D, Bloom RD. BK virus genotype variance and discordant BK viremia PCR assay results. Am J Transplant 2013; 13:1112-1113. [PMID: 23432963 DOI: 10.1111/ajt.12169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J Trofe-Clark
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.,Renal Electrolyte and Hypertension Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - T Sparkes
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - C Gentile
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - V Van Deerlin
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - D Sawinski
- Renal Electrolyte and Hypertension Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - R D Bloom
- Renal Electrolyte and Hypertension Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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21
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Mapelli P, Mangili G, Picchio M, Gentile C, Rabaiotti E, Giorgione V, Spinapolice EG, Gianolli L, Messa C, Candiani M. Role of 18F-FDG PET in the management of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2013; 40:505-13. [PMID: 23314259 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-012-2324-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a rare and aggressive tumour that is usually sensitive to chemotherapy. The usefulness of conventional imaging modalities in evaluating treatment response is limited, mainly due to the difficulty in differentiating between residual tumour tissue and necrosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of FDG PET or PET/CT in primary staging and in monitoring treatment efficacy. The effect of FDG PET and combined PET/CT on the management of patients with GTN was also evaluated comparing the differences between standard treatments based on conventional imaging and alternative treatments based on PET. METHODS This retrospective study included 41 patients with GTN referred to San Raffaele Hospital between 2002 and 2010. All patients were studied by either PET or PET/CT in addition to conventional imaging. Of the 41 patients, 38 were evaluated for primary staging of GTN and 3 patients for chemotherapy resistance after first-line chemotherapy performed in other Institutions. To validate the PET data, PET and PET/CT findings were compared with those from conventional imaging, including transvaginal ultrasonography (TV-US) in those with uterine disease, CT and chest plain radiography in those with lung disease and whole-body CT in those with systemic metastases. Conventional imaging was considered positive for the presence of uterine disease and/or metastases when abnormal findings relating to GTN were reported. PET and PET/CT were considered concordant with conventional imaging when metabolic active disease was detected at the sites corresponding to the pathological findings on conventional imaging. In addition, in 12 of the 41 patients showing extrauterine disease, FDG PET/CT was repeated to monitor treatment efficacy, in 8 after normalization of beta human chorionic gonadotropin (βHCG) and in 4 with βHCG resistance. In some patients, PET or PET/CT findings led to an alternative nonconventional treatment, and this was considered a change in patient management for the study analysis. RESULTS When compared to TV-US, chest radiography and CT for staging, PET showed a concordance in 91 %, 84 % and 81 % of patients, respectively. In 8 of the 41 patients with extrauterine disease during staging, PET/CT showed a complete response to therapy after βHCG normalization. PET and PET/CT identified the sites of persistent disease in all seven high-risk patients with βHCG resistance, of whom four underwent second-line chemotherapy, two surgical removal of resistant disease instead of additional chemotherapy, and one surgical removal of resistant disease and second-line chemotherapy with subsequent negative βHCG. CONCLUSION In staging, PET cannot replace conventional imaging and does not show any information in addition to that shown by conventional imaging. The additional value of PET/CT in GTN with respect to conventional imaging is found in patients with high-risk disease. PET can identify the sites of primary and/or metastatic disease in patients with persistent high levels of βHCG after first-line chemotherapy and may be of additional value in patient management for guiding alternative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Mapelli
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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22
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Abstract
The investigation on the differences occurring in the manufacture of silver coins allows to get information on their elemental composition and represents a powerful support to the methodology to identify the producing technologies, workshops being also instrumental to distinguish between original and counterfeit ones. Aim of the present work is to study recent and old silver coins through non-destructive X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis. The XRF was applied to extend the analysis to the deepest layers of the coins; for surface layers an X-ray tube or an electron beam were employed to induce the atom fluorescence to obtain information on the surface elemental composition. Moreover, a detailed study has been performed to evaluate the influence of the surface curvature on the measurement, by deducing a proper corrective factor to keep into account in the data analysis. The elemental atomic composition was measured for each coin, mainly by means of the X-ray tube excitation for the bulk and the electron Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) microbeam probe for the surface patina analysis. Ionization was induced by an X-ray tube using an Ag anode for the bulk and by an electron microprobe for the surface composition. X-ray detection was performed by using a semiconductor Si device cooled by a Peltier system. The Ag L-lines X-ray yield is affected by coin surface morphology and geometry. The comparison between coin spectra and standard samples, shows that the Ag quantitative analysis is influenced by error of the atomic concentration lower that 10%.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Torrisi
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Scienze della Terra, Università di Messina, Messina, Italy
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23
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Reyes S, Babineau D, Davis R, Taylor C, Anklam T, Dunne M, Flowers D, Gentile C, Latkowski J, Maroni V, Martinez-Frias J, Miles R, Willms S. Overview of the LIFE fuel cycle. EPJ Web of Conferences 2013. [DOI: 10.1051/epjconf/20135911002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Milinkeviciute G, Gentile C, Neely GG. Drosophila as a tool for studying the conserved genetics of pain. Clin Genet 2012; 82:359-66. [PMID: 22880632 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0004.2012.01941.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2012] [Revised: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Survival of all animals depends on an accurate representation of the world, and an organism must be capable of prioritizing and responding to potentially hazardous conditions. This ability is dependent on nociception, the sensory process allowing animals to detect and avoid potentially harmful stimuli. Nociception is the sensory process that results in the subjective experience of 'pain' in humans. Because of its vital and broad role in animal biology, pain/nociception is a complex, whole-body physiological process that is under stringent evolutionary pressure. Here, we discuss the utility of Drosophila melanogaster as an emerging model organism for studying the conserved genetics of nociception, particularly with respect to recently developed high-throughput Drosophila 'pain' paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Milinkeviciute
- Neuroscience Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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25
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Tesoriere L, Gentile C, Angileri F, Attanzio A, Tutone M, Allegra M, Livrea MA. Trans-epithelial transport of the betalain pigments indicaxanthin and betanin across Caco-2 cell monolayers and influence of food matrix. Eur J Nutr 2012; 52:1077-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s00394-012-0414-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cavoretto P, Gentile C, Mangili G, Garavaglia E, Valsecchi L, Spagnolo D, Montoli S, Candiani M. Transvaginal ultrasound predicts delayed response to chemotherapy and drug resistance in stage I low-risk trophoblastic neoplasia. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2012; 40:99-105. [PMID: 22262502 DOI: 10.1002/uog.11097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Methotrexate (MTX) resistance is defined on the basis of the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) curve. The aim of this study was to identify low-risk non-metastatic patients with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) who can achieve resolution by continuing MTX treatment despite a transient hCG plateau. METHODS Before starting chemotherapy, 24 patients with FIGO Stage I GTN underwent transvaginal ultrasonography with power Doppler in order to identify myometrial lesions (areas of increased echogenicity and increased power Doppler signal). Ultrasound response to chemotherapy was defined when myometrial lesions decreased in echogenicity, Doppler signal or size. When ultrasound response occurred, despite chemoresistance defined by hCG values, MTX treatment was continued. RESULTS MTX was continued in three out of seven chemoresistant patients because ultrasound suggested response to MTX. All three of these patients achieved a complete response, thus nearly halving the MTX-resistance rate. CONCLUSION Among patients who are candidates for second-line treatment on the basis of hCG, ultrasound may identify those in whom further MTX administration can induce a delayed complete response.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Cavoretto
- IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Vita-Salute University, Milan, Italy.
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Ingordo V, Cazzaniga S, Gentile C, Iannazzone SS, Cusano F, Naldi L. Dermatology Life Quality Index score in vitiligo patients: a pilot study among young Italian males. GIORN ITAL DERMAT V 2012; 147:83-90. [PMID: 22370571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
AIM A negative impact on vitiligo patients in terms of quality of life (QoL) has been suggested. The aim of this report was to study the QoL in a sample of Italian vitiligo patients by using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. METHODS A sample of forty seven vitiligo subjects, identified among 34,740 potential conscripts resident in southern Italy underwent the Italian version of the DLQI questionnaire. RESULTS The median total DLQI score was 1 (IQR: 2; mean: 1.82). In univariate analysis, DLQI total score was significantly influenced by the clinical course of vitiligo, disease extension over the body, and location on face and/or hands. Multivariate analysis using logistic stepwise regression showed that only the localization on the hands and on the face influenced significantly the mean DLQI. CONCLUSION Our study conducted on a random sample of individuals affected by vitiligo selected from the general young male population in Italy, does not document a large impact of vitiligo on QoL. However, variations exist and the location of lesions on the face and/or hands may impact on QoL. Population-based studies are not affected by selection biases connected with seeking medical care and should be more widely performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Ingordo
- Department of Italian Navy Health, Taranto, Italy.
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28
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Servillo P, Vigna E, De Stefano L, Gentile M, Lucia E, Mazzone C, Bossio S, Gigliotti V, Franzese S, Caruso N, Cartolano A, Scarpelli D, Bisconte M, Gentile C, Recchia A, Morabito F. 249 Two novel TET2 gene mutations in myelodysplastic syndrome. Leuk Res 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s0145-2126(11)70251-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Ingordo V, Gentile C, Iannazzone SS, Cusano F, Naldi L. Vitiligo and autoimmunity: an epidemiological study in a representative sample of young Italian males. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2011; 25:105-9. [PMID: 20477923 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2010.03696.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is stated that patients with vitiligo have an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of autoantibodies or overt autoimmune diseases in a group of vitiligo patients examined among a sample deemed to be representative of the general population of young men living in southern Italy. METHODS A total of 60 vitiligo patients were identified among 34,740 potential conscripts visited to evaluate their fitness to compulsory service in Italian Navy, obtaining a prevalence of 0.17% (95% CI: 0.13-0.22), which was deemed the prevalence of vitiligo in the Italian general population of the same age and sex. Forty of these vitiligo patients underwent blood test including also the search of the main autoantibodies. RESULTS Circulating autoantibodies were detected in 42.5% of subjects. Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies were documented in 27.5%, anti-thyroperoxidase in 22.5%, anti-smooth muscle in 17.3%, anti-nuclear, anti-mitochondrial and anti-gastric parietal cells in 2.5% respectively. Only in two cases (5%) an overt thyroid disease was diagnosed. No significant association between the extension of the skin involved ⁄ clinical course of the disease and circulating autoantibodies was detected. Circulating autoantibodies (particularly anti-thyroid antibodies) were statistically associated with a lower duration of the disease. CONCLUSIONS In agreement with other studies, autoantibodies in the lack of clinical manifestations have been frequently observed in our vitiligo patients, especially during the early phase of the disease. The clinical significance of this finding seems to be limited, with the possible exception of thyroid disease, and it needs further exploration, through large cohort studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Ingordo
- Department of Italian Navy Health, Taranto, Italy.
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Gentile M, Vigna E, Mazzone C, Lucia E, Recchia AG, Morabito L, Bisconte MG, Gentile C, Morabito F. Rituximab for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Cancer Manag Res 2010; 2:71-81. [PMID: 21188098 PMCID: PMC3004569 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s5621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a lymphoproliferative disorder that originates from antigen-experienced B lymphocytes that do not die and hence accumulate due to external survival signals or undergo apoptosis and are replenished by proliferating precursors. These neoplastic lymphocytes exhibit a characteristic immunophenotype of CD5(+)/CD19(+)/CD20(+)/HLA-DR+/CD23(+)/sIgdim. Thus, the CD20 antigen has been an appealing target for therapy. The introduction of the monoclonal antibody rituximab (anti-CD20) enabled an outstanding advance in CLL treatment. The introduction of this monoclonal antibody into chemotherapy regimens has dramatically improved complete response rates and progression-free survival in patients with both untreated and relapsed CLL. Although only preliminary data from phase III confirmatory trials have been reported, the FCR regimen, which combines fludarabine and cyclophosphamide with rituximab, is currently the most effective treatment regimen for CLL patients, and has also been demonstrated to significantly improve overall survival. The success of rituximab and the identification of other CLL lymphocyte surface antigens have spurred the development of a multitude of monoclonal antibodies targeting distinct proteins and epitopes in an attempt to target CLL cells more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gentile
- Correspondence: Massimo Gentile, Unità Operativa Complessa di Ematologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Azienda Ospedaliera di Cosenza, Viale della Repubblica, 87100 Cosenza, Italy, Tel +39 0984 681329, Fax +39 0984 791751, Email
| | | | | | | | | | - L Morabito
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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Tesoriere L, Allegra M, Gentile C, Livrea MA. Betacyanins as phenol antioxidants. Chemistry and mechanistic aspects of the lipoperoxyl radical-scavenging activity in solution and liposomes. Free Radic Res 2010; 43:706-17. [DOI: 10.1080/10715760903037681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Tesoriere L, Allegra M, Butera D, Gentile C, Livrea MA. Kinetics of the lipoperoxyl radical-scavenging activity of indicaxanthin in solution and unilamellar liposomes. Free Radic Res 2009; 41:226-33. [PMID: 17364949 DOI: 10.1080/10715760601026614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The reaction of the phytochemical indicaxanthin with lipoperoxyl radicals generated in methyl linoleate methanol solution by 2,2'-azobis(2,4-dimethylvaleronitrile), and in aqueous soybean phosphatidylcholine unilamellar liposomes by 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane)hydrochloride, was studied. The molecule acts as a chain-terminating lipoperoxyl radical scavenger in solution, with a calculated inhibition constant of 3.63 x 10(5) M(-1) s(-1), and a stoichiometric factor approaching 2. Indicaxanthin incorporated in liposomes prevented lipid oxidation, inducing clear-cut lag periods and decrease of the propagation rate. Both effects were concentration-dependent, but not linearly related to the phytochemical concentration. The consumption of indicaxanthin during liposome oxidation was remarkably delayed, the lower the concentration the longer the time-interval during which it remained in its native state. Indicaxanthin and alpha-tocopherol, simultaneously incorporated in liposomes, exhibited cooperative antioxidant effects and reciprocal protective interactions. The extent of synergism decreased at the increase of the ratio (indicaxanthin)/(alpha-tocopherol). A potential antioxidant mechanism of indicaxanthin is discussed in the context of the chemistry of the molecule, and of the possible reactivity of a short-lived intermediate.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tesoriere
- Dipartimento Farmacochimico Tossicologico e Biologico, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi, 32, Palermo, Italy
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Tesoriere L, Allegra M, Butera D, Gentile C, Livrea MA. Cytoprotective effects of the antioxidant phytochemical indicaxanthin in β-thalassemia red blood cells. Free Radic Res 2009; 40:753-61. [PMID: 16984002 DOI: 10.1080/10715760600554228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Antioxidant phytochemicals are investigated as novel treatments for supportive therapy in beta-thalassemia. The dietary indicaxanthin was assessed for its protective effects on human beta-thalassemic RBCs submitted in vitro to oxidative haemolysis by cumene hydroperoxide. Indicaxanthin at 1.0-10 microM enhanced the resistance to haemolysis dose-dependently. In addition, it prevented lipid and haemoglobin (Hb) oxidation, and retarded vitamin E and GSH depletion. After ex vivo spiking of blood from thalassemia patients with indicaxanthin, the phytochemical was recovered in the soluble cell compartment of the RBCs. A spectrophotometric study showed that indicaxanthin can reduce perferryl-Hb generated in solution from met-Hb and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), more effectively than either Trolox or vitamin C. Collectively our results demonstrate that indicaxanthin can be incorporated into the redox machinery of beta-thalassemic RBC and defend the cell from oxidation, possibly interfering with perferryl-Hb, a reactive intermediate in the hydroperoxide-dependent Hb degradation. Opportunities of therapeutic interest for beta-thalassemia may be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tesoriere
- Dipartimento Farmacochimico Tossicologico e Biologico, Università di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, Palermo 90128, Italy.
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Gentile C, Alberini I, Manini I, Rossi S, Montomoli E, Pozzi T, Rizzo C, Alfonsi V. Hepatitis A seroprevalence in Tuscany, Italy. Euro Surveill 2009; 14:19146. [PMID: 19317984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Information regarding the current seroprevalence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) is useful for the control of HAV infections. The objective of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of anti-HAV antibodies among children (1-5 years old) and young adults (15-20 years old) in Tuscany, in central Italy. A total of 565 sera were collected in three years 1992, 1998 and 2004, equally distributed between the two age groups. The overal proportion of those that tested positive for anti-HAV antibodies was 8.3%. The proportion of immune children (1-5 years old) statistically significantly increased over the years. The percentage of immune subjects among 15-20-year-old young adults varied over the years, not showing a significant statistical trend, nevertheless our findings indicate that in a low endemicity area, adolescents and young adults are becoming increasingly susceptible to HAV infection. On-going monitoring of immunity to HAV is necessary for detecting trends over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gentile
- University of Siena, Department of Physiopathology, Experimental Medicine and Public Health, Tuscany, Italy
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Abstract
Information regarding the current seroprevalence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) is useful for the control of HAV infections. The objective of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of anti-HAV antibodies among children (1-5 years old) and young adults (15-20 years old) in Tuscany, in central Italy. A total of 565 sera were collected in three years 1992, 1998 and 2004, equally distributed between the two age groups. The overal proportion of those that tested positive for anti-HAV antibodies was 8.3%. The proportion of immune children (1-5 years old) statistically significantly increased over the years. The percentage of immune subjects among 15-20-year-old young adults varied over the years, not showing a significant statistical trend, nevertheless our findings indicate that in a low endemicity area, adolescents and young adults are becoming increasingly susceptible to HAV infection. On-going monitoring of immunity to HAV is necessary for detecting trends over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gentile
- University of Siena, Department of Physiopathology, Experimental Medicine and Public Health
| | - I Alberini
- University of Siena, Department of Physiopathology, Experimental Medicine and Public Health
| | - I Manini
- University of Siena, Department of Physiopathology, Experimental Medicine and Public Health
| | - S Rossi
- University of Siena, Department of Physiopathology, Experimental Medicine and Public Health
| | - E Montomoli
- University of Siena, Department of Physiopathology, Experimental Medicine and Public Health
| | - T Pozzi
- University of Siena, Department of Physiopathology, Experimental Medicine and Public Health
| | - C Rizzo
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Centre for Epidemiology Surveillance and Promotion of Health
| | - V Alfonsi
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Centre for Epidemiology Surveillance and Promotion of Health
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Gentile M, Verta M, Vigna E, Lucia E, Mazzone C, Perugini D, Gentile C, Bisconte MG, Romeo F, Leo P, Betterle C, Morabito F. Autoimmune hemolityc anemia concomitant with sequential autoimmune hepatitis-primary biliary cirrhosis overlap syndrome and Hashimoto's thyroiditis: a new entity of autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome. J Endocrinol Invest 2009; 32:287-8. [PMID: 19542751 DOI: 10.1007/bf03346469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
MESH Headings
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/complications
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/diagnosis
- Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune/drug therapy
- Anti-Inflammatory Agents/administration & dosage
- Budesonide/administration & dosage
- Female
- Hashimoto Disease/complications
- Hashimoto Disease/diagnosis
- Hashimoto Disease/drug therapy
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/complications
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/diagnosis
- Hepatitis, Autoimmune/drug therapy
- Humans
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/complications
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/diagnosis
- Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary/drug therapy
- Middle Aged
- Polyendocrinopathies, Autoimmune/diagnosis
- Polyendocrinopathies, Autoimmune/drug therapy
- Syndrome
- Ursodeoxycholic Acid/administration & dosage
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Gasparini R, Rizzetto R, Sasso T, Rizzitelli E, Manfredi P, Risso D, Gentile C, Ciofi degli Atti M, Panatto D. Seroprevalence of bactericidal antibody against Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C in pre-vaccinal era: the Italian epidemiological scenario. Vaccine 2009; 27:3435-8. [PMID: 19200821 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2009.01.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Meningococcal disease is particularly severe. The case-fatality rate is 7.78% in Europe and 10-14% in the USA. This paper reports the results of a sero-epidemiological study in Italy on meningitis due to Meningococcus C before the introduction of the monovalent conjugate vaccine. In 2003-2004, a total of 577 sera were collected in 17 of the 20 Italian Regions. Serum Bactericidal Assay (SBA) was performed by using rabbit complement serum according to standardized SBA. The results showed that the percentages of protected subjects decreased from 6 to 12 months of age, increased from 1 to 4 years, decreased again until the age of 8 years and from 13 to 16 years, and were particularly high in 9- and 17-year-old subjects. The geometric mean titre of bactericidal antibodies (SBAbs GMT) was low in subjects under 1 year of age, significantly increased in 1-9-year-old children and decreased in adolescents and young adults. Finally, in each one-year age-group, low levels of antibodies were observed in subjects under 1 year of age, in 10-year-old subjects and in 14-16-year-old adolescents. High titres were observed in 3-, 8-, 9- and 17-year-old subjects. Our results therefore indicate that meningococcus C has the highest probability of spreading among 1-4, 8-10 and 14-17-year-old subjects in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gasparini
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genoa, Italy.
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Groth N, Montomoli E, Gentile C, Manini I, Bugarini R, Podda A. Safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of a mammalian cell-culture-derived influenza vaccine: A sequential Phase I and Phase II clinical trial. Vaccine 2009; 27:786-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2008] [Revised: 07/28/2008] [Accepted: 11/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Brauer V, Laghi-Pasini F, Capecchi P, Gentile C, di Giovanni P, Staniscia T, Montomoli E, Hilbert A, Tilman S, Durando P, Sticchi L, Gasparini R, Banzhoff A. Priming for Pandemic Influenza: Antigen-sparing MF59™-adjuvanted A/H5N1 Vaccine Induces Immunological Memory and Shows Cross-Reactive Potential in Adults Including the Elderly. Int J Infect Dis 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2008.05.358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Pippi F, Bracciale L, Stolzuoli L, Giaccherini R, Montomoli E, Gentile C, Filetti S, De Luca A, Cellesi C. Serological response to hepatitis B virus vaccine in HIV-infected children in Tanzania. HIV Med 2008; 9:519-25. [PMID: 18554311 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1293.2008.00598.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV-infected children have a lower seroconversion rate to hepatitis B virus (HBV) immunization than healthy children. Previous studies have produced conflicting results on CD4 cell counts as predictors of vaccine response. No study has evaluated the response rate to HBV vaccination in HIV-infected children receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Our aim was to vaccinate HIV-infected children living in a close community and to investigate the anamnestic response rate after vaccination with its predictors. METHODS Eighty-four HIV-positive children aged 1-10 years who were negative for antibodies to the HBV core antigen (anti-HBc) completed immunization with three doses of 5 microg HBVAXPRO (Aventis, Milan, Italy). Quantitative testing for antibodies to the HBV surface antigen (anti-HBs) was performed: a seroprotective titre was defined as anti-HBs>10 mUI/mL. RESULTS After the vaccination, the anti-HBs seroconversion rate was 59.5%. It was higher in individuals in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immune category 1 than in those in CDC categories 2 and 3. Seroconversion was found in 70.8% of HAART-treated and 44.4% of treatment-naïve children. In multivariable models, HAART use and absolute CD4 cell counts were independently associated with probability of seroconversion and with higher anti-HBs titres. CONCLUSIONS We found a higher seroconversion rate compared with previous studies in HIV-infected children. In children who are candidates to receive antiretroviral therapy, it may be advisable to defer HBV vaccination until after treatment initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Pippi
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
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Abstract
We propose a novel two-layer neural network to answer a point query in R(n) which is partitioned into polyhedral regions; such a task solves among others nearest neighbor clustering. As in previous approaches to the problem, our design is based on the use of Voronoi diagrams. However, our approach results in substantial reduction of the number of neurons, completely eliminating the second layer, at the price of requiring only two additional clock steps. In addition, the design process is also simplified while retaining the main advantage of the approach, namely its ability to furnish precise values for the number of neurons and the connection weights necessitating neither trial and error type iterations nor ad hoc parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gentile
- Wireless Communications Technologies Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
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Mangili G, Petrone M, Gentile C, De Marzi P, Viganò R, Rabaiotti E. Prevention strategies in palmar–plantar erythrodysesthesia onset: The role of regional cooling. Gynecol Oncol 2008; 108:332-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2007.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2007] [Revised: 10/16/2007] [Accepted: 10/17/2007] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Tesoriere L, Butera D, Gentile C, Livrea MA. Bioactive components of caper (Capparis spinosa L.) from Sicily and antioxidant effects in a red meat simulated gastric digestion. J Agric Food Chem 2007; 55:8465-71. [PMID: 17887802 DOI: 10.1021/jf0714113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
An increasing body of evidence on the association between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and healthy status is being accumulated. Floral buds of Capparis spinosa L. are commonly used in the Mediterranean cuisine as flavoring for meat and other foods. The present study evaluated bioactive components and antioxidant activity of Sicilian capers stabilized in salt. Whereas alpha-tocopherol was absent, low levels of gamma-tocopherol and vitamin C were measured. With reference to one serving size (8.6 g of capers), rutin was 13.76 mg, isothiocyanates, recently acknowledged as anticarcinogen phytochemicals, were 42.14 micromol, total phenols were 4.19 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE), and the total antioxidant potential measured using the [2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)] diammonium salt (ABTS) cation radical decolorization assay was 25.8 micromol of Trolox equivalents. The antioxidative activity of a caper hydrophilic extract was assessed in a number of assays. The extract at 3.5 and 7.0 microM GAE exhibited a dose-dependent peroxyl radical scavenging activity in a methyl linoleate methanol solution oxidized by azo initiator, and reduced hypervalent iron myoglobin species formed from met-Mb an H 2O 2, at 180 microM GAE. The hydrophilic extract, at 70-280 microM GAE, caused a dose-dependent inhibition of lipid autoxidation in heated red meat, incubated with simulated gastric fluid for 180 min. In the same model rutin tested at a concentration corresponding to its content in the extract was ineffective, and alpha-tocopherol at 25 microM was poorly effective. The hydrophilic extract (70 microM GAE) prevented the consumption of the co-incubated alpha-tocopherol, whereas lipid oxidation was inhibited for the experimental time, suggesting cooperative interactions between extract components and the vitamin. The findings encourage the use of caper with foods that contribute oxidizable lipids in view of the association between dietary oxidized lipids and risk of oxidative stress-based diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tesoriere
- Dipartimento Farmacochimico Tossicologico e Biologico, Università di Palermo, Via M. Cipolla 74, 90128 Palermo, Italy.
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Ingordo V, Gentile C, Iannazzone SS, Cusano F, Naldi L. The ?EpiEnlist? project: a dermo-epidemiologic study on a representative sample of young Italian males. Prevalence of selected pigmentary lesions. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2007; 21:1091-6. [PMID: 17714131 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2007.02205.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies on the prevalence and incidence of many skin conditions in the general population are available because it is difficult to submit to dermatologic examination large samples of seemingly healthy population. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of several skin conditions among a sample that is deemed to be representative of the general population of young men living in southern Italy. PATIENTS/METHODS Potential conscripts resident in the coastal regions of southern Italy and called at the age of 18 to the Draft's Council Medical Unit in Taranto underwent a clinical and instrumental examination to evaluate their psycho-physical fitness to compulsory service in Italian Navy. From January 1998 to April 2004 a dermo-epidemiologic project named EpiEnlist (EPIdemiology in ENLISTed Men) project was carried out by the Department of Dermatology of the Italian Navy Hospital in Taranto under the auspices of the Italian Group for Epidemiological Research in Dermatology. All the subjects showing skin lesions evocative of neurofibromatosis (NF), congenital melanocytic nevus (CMN), Becker nevus (BN), and vitiligo were referred to the Department of Dermatology of the Italian Navy Hospital for confirming the diagnosis. The confirmed cases were recorded in a predefined patient's card, containing the main anamnestic, clinical, instrumental, and laboratory data. RESULTS Because the recording of the various conditions started and ended in different times, the total number of examined subjects varied. NF type 1 was diagnosed in 6 of 34 740 subjects [prevalence 1:5735 or 0.017%; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.0008-0.0037], CMN in 157 of 23 354 (prevalence 1:148 or 0.67%; 95% CI, 0.57-0.79). BN was observed in 70 of 27 954 young men (prevalence 1:399 or 0.25%; 95% CI, 0.15-0.35), and its mean age of appearance was 11.9 years (minimum 5-maximum 17). In 41 subjects (58.6%), the age of appearance was over 10 years. Vitiligo was recorded in 60 of 34 740 persons (prevalence 1:579 or 0.17%; 95% CI, 0.13-0.22). In 40 subjects with vitiligo, the blood test was done: in 40% of these circulating autoantibodies, mainly anti-thyroid (25.6%) and anti-smooth muscle (17.3%) autoantibodies were detected, but only in 5% of cases, a thyroid disease was diagnosed, and no other sign of autoimmune diseases was observed. CONCLUSIONS The epidemiological data of the skin conditions considered in the present study can be considered roughly in agreement with those reported in the available surveys. Because they were obtained in a large sample of Italian young males from the general population, they can be useful for therapeutic and preventive interventions by the public health organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Ingordo
- Department of Dermatology, Italian Navy Main Hospital G. Venticinque, Taranto, Italy.
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Gentile C, Alberini I, Manini I, Montomoli E, Rossi S, Pozzi T. P1218 Hepatitis A infection in central Tuscany in children and youths. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-8579(07)71058-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Gentile C, Lima JBP, Peixoto AA. Isolation of a fragment homologous to the rp49 constitutive gene of Drosophila in the Neotropical malaria vector Anopheles aquasalis (Diptera: Culicidae). Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2005; 100:545-7. [PMID: 16302065 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762005000600008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The constitutive ribosomal gene rp49 is frequently used as an endogenous control in Drosophila gene expression experiments. Using the degenerate primer PCR technique we have cloned a fragment homologous to this gene in Anopheles aquasalis Curry, a Neotropical vector of malaria. In addition, based on this first sequence, a new primer was designed, which allowed the isolation of fragments of rp49 in two other species, Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) and Culex quinquefasciatus Say, suggesting that it could be used to clone fragments of this gene in a number of other mosquito species. Primers were also designed to specifically amplify rp49 cDNA fragments in An. aquasalis and Ae. aegypti, showing that rp49 could be used as a good constitutive control in gene expression studies of these and other vectorially important mosquito species.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gentile
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21040-900, Brasil
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Gentile C, Tesoriere L, Allegra M, Livrea MA, D'Alessio P. Antioxidant betalains from cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) inhibit endothelial ICAM-1 expression. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2005; 1028:481-6. [PMID: 15650274 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1322.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that some pigments would have antioxidant properties and that their presence in dietary constituents would contribute to reduce the risk of oxidative stress-correlated diseases. Among others, inflammatory response depends on redox status and may implicate oxidative stress. Vascular endothelial cells are a direct target of oxidative stress in inflammation. We have tested the impact of the free radical scavenger and antioxidant properties of betalains from the prickle pear in an in vitro model of endothelial cells. Here we show the capacity of betalains to protect endothelium from cytokine-induced redox state alteration, through ICAM-1 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gentile
- Dipartimento Farmacochimico, Tossicologico e Biologico, Università di Palermo, Italy
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Duparc F, Noyon M, Ozeel J, Gerometta A, Michot C, Tadjalli M, Moslemy H, Safaei S, Heiman A, Wish-Baratz S, Melnikov T, Smoliar E, Hakan AY, Yucel F, Kachlík DK, Pešl MP, Báča VB, Stingl JS, Kachlík KD, Čech ČP, Báča BV, Mompeó B, Marrero-Rodriguez A, Zeybek A, Sağlam B, Çikler E, Çetinel Ş, Ercan F, Şener G, Kawawa Y, Kohda E, Tatsuya T, Moroi M, Kunimasa T, Nagamoto M, Terada H, Labuschagne BCJ, van der Krieke TJ, Hoogland PV, Muller CJF, Lyners R, Vorster W, Matusz P, Zaboi DE, Xu SC, Tu LL, Wang Q, Zhang M, Han H, Tao W, Jiao Y, Pang G, Aydin ME, Kopuz C, Demir MT, Yildirim M, Kale A, Ince Y, Khamanarong K, Jeeravipoolvarn P, Chaijaroonkhanarak W, Gawgleun W, Fujino T, Uz A, Apaydin N, Bozkurt M, Elhan A, Sheibani MT, Adibmoradi M, Jahovic N, Alican I, Erkanli G, Arbak S, Karakaş S, Taşer F, Güneş H, Yildiz Y, Yazici Y, Aland RC, Kippers V, Song WC, Park SH, Shin C, Koh KS, Russo G, Pomara F, Veca M, Cacciola F, Martorana U, Gravante G, Tobenas-Dujardin AC, Laquerrière A, Muller JM, Fréger P, López-Serna N, Álvarez-González E, Torres-Gonzàlez V, Laredo-López G, Esparza-González GV, Álvarez-Cantú R, Garza-González CE, Guzmán-López S, Aldur MM, Çelik HH, Sürücü S, Denk C, Yang HJ, Gil YC, Kim TJ, Lee HY, Lee WJ, Lee H, Hu KS, Akita K, Kim HJ, Jung HS, Gurbuz H, Balik S, Wavreille G, Chantelot C, Demondion X, Fontaine C, Çavdar S, Yalin A, Saka E, Özdoǧmuş Ö, Çakmak Ö, Elevli L, Saǧlam B, Coquerel-Beghin D, Milliez PY, Lemierre G, Oktem G, Vatansever S, Ayla S, Uysal A, Aktas S, Karabulut B, Bilir A, Uslu S, Aktug H, Yurtseven ME, Celik HH, Tatar I, Surucu S, Karaduman A, Tunali S, Neuhüttler S, Kröll A, Moriggl B, Brenner E, Loukas M, Arora S, Louis RG, Fogg QA, Wagner T, Tedman RA, Ching HY, Eze N, Bottrill ID, Blyth P, Faull RLM, Vuletic J, Elizondo-Omaña RE, Rodríguez MAG, López SG, de la Garza OT, Liu YH, Zhang KL, Lu DH, Kwak HH, Park HD, Youn KH, Kang HJ, Kang HC, Han SH, Ikiz ZAA, Ucerler H, Uygur M, Kutoglu T, Dina C, Iliescu D, Şapte E, Bordei P, Lekšan I, Marcikić M, Radić R, Nikolić V, Kurbel S, Selthofer R, Báča V, Doubková A, Kachlík D, Stingl J, Džupa V, Grill R, Nam YS, Paik DJ, Shin CS, Kim SJ, Kim DG, Jin CS, Kim DI, Lee UY, Kwak DS, Lee JH, Han CH, Carpino A, Rago V, Romeo F, Carani C, Andò S, Arican RY, Coskun N, Sarikcioglu L, Sindel M, Arican YR, Altun U, Ozsoy U, Oguz N, Yildirim FB, Nakajima K, Duygulu E, Aydin H, Gurer EI, Ozkan O, Tuzuner S, Özsoy U, Çubukçu S, Demirel BM, Akkin SM, Marur T, Weiglein AH, Maghiar TT, Borza C, Bumbu A, Bumbu G, Polle G, Auquit-Auckbur I, Dujardin F, Biga N, Olivier E, Defives T, Ghazali S, Anastasi G, Rizzo G, Favaloro A, Miliardi D, Giacobbe O, Santoro G, Trimarchi F, Cutroneo G, Govsa F, Bilge O, Ozer MA, Erdogmus S, Grizzi F, Pelillo F, Mori M, Franceschini B, Portinaro N, Godlewski G, Viala M, Rouanet JP, Prat D, Rahmé ZS, Prudhomme M, Eken E, Kwiatkowska M, Liegmann J, Chmielewski R, Grimmond J, Kwiatkowski M, Schintler MV, Windisch G, Wittgruber G, Prandl EC, Prodinger P, Anderhuber F, Scharnagl E, Gerbino A, Buscemi M, Leone A, Mandracchia R, Peri G, Lipari D, Farina-Lipari E, Valentino B, D’Arpa S, Cordova A, Bucchieri F, Ribbene A, David S, Palma A, Davies DE, Haitchi HM, Holgate ST, La Rocca G, Anzalone R, Campanella C, Rappa F, Bartolotta T, Cappello F, Bellafiore M, Sivverini G, Palumbo D, Macaluso F, Farina F, Di Felice V, Montalbano A, Ardizzone N, Marcianò V, Zummo G, Tanyeli E, Üzel M, Carini F, Scardina GA, Varia P, Valenza V, Messina P, Meiring JH, Schumann C, Whitmore I, Greyling LM, Hamel O, Hamel A, Robert R, Garçon M, Lagier S, Blin Y, Armstrong O, Rogez JM, Le Borgne J, Ifrim CF, Maghiar A, Botea M, Ifrim M, Pop O, Sandor M, Behdadipour Z, Saberi M, Esfandiary E, Gentile C, Marconi A, Livrea MA, Uzan G, D’Alessio P, Ridola CG, Grassi N, Pantuso G, Bottino A, Cacace E, Li Petri S, Di Gaudio F, Guercio G, Latteri MA, Nobile D, Cipolla C, Caruso G, Salvaggio G, Lo Cascio A, Fatta G, Lagalla R, Campisi A, Verderame F, Martegani A, Cardinale AE, Luedinghausen MV. Poster presentation. Surg Radiol Anat 2005. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03371476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Gitto E, Romeo C, Reiter RJ, Impellizzeri P, Pesce S, Basile M, Antonuccio P, Trimarchi G, Gentile C, Barberi I, Zuccarello B. Melatonin reduces oxidative stress in surgical neonates. J Pediatr Surg 2004; 39:184-9; discussion 184-9. [PMID: 14966737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2003.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Cytokines are inflammatory mediators found in the circulation after surgery. Newborns have less protection against oxidation and are very susceptible to free radical oxidative damage. Melatonin has been reported recently to reduce oxidative stress in neonates with sepsis, asphyxia, and respiratory distress. The aim of this study has been to determine if melatonin would lower interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and nitrite/nitrate (NOx) levels and modify serum inflammation parameters, improving the clinical course of surgical neonates. METHODS Ten newborns (group 1), 5 with surgical malformations and respiratory distress (group 1a) and 5 with isolated abdominal surgical malformations (group 1b) received a total of 10 doses of melatonin (10 mg/kg) at defined times interval for 72 hours. The treatment was started within 3 hours after the end of surgery. Ten surgical neonates (group 2), did not receive melatonin. Twenty healthy neonates (group 3) served as control. Blood samples were collected at the end of operation; before treatment with the antioxidant; and 24 hours 72 hours, and 7 days after start of treatment with melatonin or placebo, respectively. RESULTS Postoperative value of cytokines and NOx levels of groups 1 and 2 were significantly higher than group 3. Compared with group 1b, group 2 displayed significantly higher cytokines and NOx levels at 24 hours, 72 hours, and at 7 days. In group 1a the immediate postoperative values of cytokines were significantly higher than group 1b and group 2, but a significant improvement was observed after administration of melatonin with significantly lower levels of IL-6 and IL-8 with respect to group 2. An improvement of clinical outcome was observed by progressive reduction of clinical parameters of inflammation. CONCLUSIONS Melatonin reduces cytokines and NOx levels showing potent antioxidant properties with improvement in clinical outcome. Further studies are warranted to define, on larger numbers, the role of melatonin in surgical patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Gitto
- Department of Medical and Surgical Pediatric Sciences, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Abstract
Tracking an object in a sequence of images can fail due to partial occlusion or clutter. Robustness to occlusion can be increased by tracking the object as a set of "parts" such that not all of these are occluded at the same time. However, successful implementation of this idea hinges upon finding a suitable set of parts. In this paper we propose a novel segmentation, specifically designed to improve robustness against occlusion in the context of tracking. The main result shows that tracking the parts resulting from this segmentation outperforms both tracking parts obtained through traditional segmentations, and tracking the entire target. Additional results include a statistical analysis of the correlation between features of a part and tracking error, and identifying a cost function that exhibits a high degree of correlation with the tracking error.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camillo Gentile
- Department of Electrical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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