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Naro A, Pignolo L, Bruschetta D, Calabrò RS. Data on a novel approach examining the role of the cerebellum in gait performance improvement in patients with Parkinson disease receiving neurologic music therapy. Data Brief 2023; 47:109013. [PMID: 36936642 PMCID: PMC10014267 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2023.109013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) benefit from Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) concerning gait impairment recovery. In PD, RAS may help eliciting rhythmic and automatized motor responses, including gait, by bypassing the deteriorated internal "clock" within basal ganglia for automatic and rhythmic motricity. We aimed at exploring the contribution of the cerebellum to this "bypass effect" in response to RAS. To this end, we examined the cerebellum-cerebral connectivity indices using conventional EEG recording to assess whether the cerebellum contributes to RAS-based post-training effects in persons with PD. Fifty PD patients were randomly assigned to an 8-week training program using Gait-Trainer3 with or without RAS. We measured the Functional Gait Assessment, the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, the Berg Balance Scale, the Tinetti Falls Efficacy Scale, the 10-meter walking test, the timed up-and-go test, and the gait quality index derived from gait analysis before and after the end of the training. A standard EEG during gait on the GT3 was also recorded and submitted to eLORETA analysis. Particularly, we focused on the time course of the gait-related activities (which were characterized using the maximum amplitude vertex across the gait cycles) within each brain region of interest. These clinical and electrophysiological measures could be used to monitor the improvement in gait performance in standard clinical settings and to develop new rehabilitation protocols focusing on a holistic functional recovery approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Naro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
- Corresponding author at: IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo; via Palermo, SS113, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina, Italy.
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Alito A, Basile GC, Bruschetta D, Berescu GL, Cavallaro F, Postorino AD, Scarcella E, Ragonese M, Cannavò S, Tisano A. Association between pain, arthropathy and health-related quality of life in patients suffering from acromegaly. A cross-sectional study. Folia Med (Plovdiv) 2023; 65:37-45. [PMID: 36855972 DOI: 10.3897/folmed.65.e68278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite successful therapy, acromegalic patients have reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) compared to healthy controls. Finding predictors of poor HRQoL can be crucial to improving these patients' global health state. Aim: The primary objective of the study was to find out predictors of HRQoL. Secondary objectives were: (I) to determine correlations with AcroQoL subscales, and (II) to identify predictors for subscales. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this cross-sectional study conducted in 2019 at the Messina Policlinic Hospital, 45 acromegalic patients were assessed at the Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine Ambulatory. During routine outpatient clinic attendances, the following questionnaires were administered: Acromegaly Quality of Life Questionnaire (AcroQoL), Patient-Assessed Acromegaly Symptom Questionnaire (PASQ), and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). We furthermore included the following variables obtained by medical record review: age, BMI, disease duration, previous surgery (Yes/No), previous radiotherapy (Yes/No), use of GH lowering medications (Yes/No), hypertension (Yes/No), diabetes mellitus (Yes/No), and biochemical control of the disease (Yes/No): immunoradiometric assays were employed to serum GH and IGF-1 measurements to identify biochemical control of the disease. Correlation between outcome measures and AcroQoL has been performed. Pearson's r was calculated for continuous data following normal distribution (AcroQoL, PASQ, AcroQoL-B, AcroQoL-R, WOMAC-P), while Spearman's rank order correlation was calculated for non-normally distributed data (WOMAC, WOMAC-F, WOMAC-S, AcroQoL-P) and point-biserial correlation for binary variables (biochemically controlled disease, use of GH lowering medications, radiotherapy, surgery). The same correlation analysis was performed for the AcroQoL subscales. Multiple linear regression with backwards, stepwise analysis was used to assess the influence on AcroQoL of correlated variables. RESULTS AcroQoL was strongly negatively correlated with PASQ (r=-0.700, p<0.001) and negatively correlated with WOMAC [rs (43)=-0.530, p<0.001] and among WOMAC subscales with WOMAC-Physical fitness [rs (43)=-0.518, p<0.001] WOMAC-Pain [r (43)=-0.428, p=0.003], WOMAC-Stiffness [rs (43)=-0.393, p=0.007], and radiotherapy [r (43) =-0.314, p=0.035]. After univariate stepwise regression, PASQ was the strongest independent predictor of AcroQoL, with R2 of 0.392 [F (1,43)=27.695, p<0.001]. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that the severity of painful symptoms is the most important predictor of HRQoL in patients with acromegaly; at the same time, acromegalic arthropathy leads to pain and to a variable amount of functional impairment, exerting great impact on the patient's perception of his health status. Measure of the progression of arthropathy and symptomatic management could lead to a great HRQoL benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Alito
- Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
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Maggio MG, Naro A, De Luca R, Latella D, Balletta T, Caccamo L, Pioggia G, Bruschetta D, Calabrò RS. Body Representation in Patients with Severe Spinal Cord Injury: A Pilot Study on the Promising Role of Powered Exoskeleton for Gait Training. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12040619. [PMID: 35455735 PMCID: PMC9030625 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12040619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) complain of changes in body representation, potentially leading to negative physical and psychological consequences. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the effects of robotic training with the Ekso-GT on body representation (BR) and on the quality of life in patients with SCI. The trial was designed as a pilot, assessor-blinded study. Forty-two inpatients with a diagnosis of SCI, classified as either American Spinal Cord Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS), were enrolled in this study and randomized into either a control (CG: n = 21) or an experimental (EG: n = 21) group. Patients in the EG received rehabilitation training with the Ekso-GT device, whereas the CG patients were trained with conventional physical therapy (CPT), which consisted of physical and occupational therapy and psychological support. We considered as a primary outcome the modified Body Uneasiness Test (MBUT), focusing on three specific subscales on the patient’s perception of BR, i.e., the Global Severity Index (MBUT-GSI), which is an indicator of body suffering; the Positive Symptom Distress Index (MBUT-PSDI) that expresses an individual’s psychological distress; and the Lower Limb MBUT (MBUT-LL), which indicates the subject’s perception of their thighs/legs. The Short-Form-12 Health Status Questionnaire (SF12) and the Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) were used as secondary outcomes to evaluate the effect of the training on the quality of life and the psychological status. Non-parametric statistical analysis showed that the effect of the two treatments was significantly different on MBUT (BR), SF-12 (quality of life), and, partially, BDI (mood). Particularly, patients belonging to the EG achieved a major improvement in nearly all test scores compared to those in the CG. Our data suggest that the Ekso-GT training could be helpful in achieving positive changes in BR in patients with chronic SCI, especially in reducing psychological distress (PSDI) and thigh/leg perception (MBUT-LL) with an overall improvement in quality of life (SF-12).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Maggio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Antonino Naro
- AOU Policlinico “G. Martino”, 98125 Messina, Italy; (A.N.); (D.B.)
| | - Rosaria De Luca
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98121 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (D.L.); (T.B.)
| | - Desiree Latella
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98121 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (D.L.); (T.B.)
| | - Tina Balletta
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98121 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (D.L.); (T.B.)
| | - Lory Caccamo
- Neuropsychology Unit, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Pioggia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), 98164 Messina, Italy;
| | | | - Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98121 Messina, Italy; (R.D.L.); (D.L.); (T.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-090-6012-3850
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Naro A, Pignolo L, Bruschetta D, Calabrò RS. What about the role of the cerebellum in music-associated functional recovery? A secondary EEG analysis of a randomized clinical trial in patients with Parkinson disease. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2022; 96:57-64. [PMID: 35220062 DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2022.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) has been shown to be of help in an effective gait training of people with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD). The cerebellum may play an important role in RAS aftereffects by compensating the detrimental internal clock for automatic and rhythmic motricity. However, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying RAS aftereffects are still poorly understood. In the present study, we tested the contribution of the cerebellum to RAS-based gait training aftereffects in people with PD by examining cerebellum-cerebral connectivity indices using standard EEG recording. We enrolled 50 patients with PD who were randomly assigned to two different modalities of treadmill gait training using GaitTrainer3 with and without RAS (non_RAS) during an 8-week training program. We measured clinical and kinematic gait indices and electrophysiological data (standard EEG recording during walking on GaitTrainer3) of both the gait trainings. We found that the greater improvement in gait performance following RAS than non_RAS training, as per clinical and kinematic assessment, was paralleled by a more evident reshape of cerebellum-brain functional connectivity with regard to specific brain areas (pre-motor, sensorimotor and temporal cortices) and gait-cycle phases (mainly 25-75% of the gait cycle duration). These findings suggest that the cerebellum mediates the reshape of sensorimotor rhythms and fronto-centroparietal connectivity in relation to specific gait-cycle phases. This may be consistent with a recovery of the internal timing mechanisms generating and controlling motor rhythmicity, eventually improving gait performance. The precise definition of the cerebellar role to gait functional recovery in people with PD may be crucial to create patient-tailored rehabilitative approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Naro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo, Messina, Italy
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Alito A, Filardi V, Famà F, Bruschetta D, Ruggeri C, Basile G, Stancanelli L, D'Amico C, Bianconi S, Tisano A. Traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury: Demographic characteristics, neurological and functional outcomes. A 7-year single centre experience. J Orthop 2021; 28:62-66. [PMID: 34880567 PMCID: PMC8627899 DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2021.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate demographic and clinical characteristics of a population affected by traumatic and non-traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) and to analyze functional outcomes after rehabilitation. Methods This study involved 112 SCI patients (75 male and 37 female) admitted at the Neurorehabilitation Unit of the University Hospital of Messina. The neurological outcomes were evaluated according to the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) and by using length of stay, Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Barthel Index (BI). Results NT-SCI patients were significantly older, numerous (75,89%) and affected by greater lesions when admitted, than T-SCI ones. Most of lesions were incomplete (93%) and associated with paraplegia (71%). FIM and BI outcomes are similar in both groups, even if T-SCI patients showed greater improvement when discharged. No significant differences were found in the length of stay. The most common complication in non-traumatic SCI group was urinary tract infection and this was observed in 25 patients (29,41%). Linear regression models explained 26% of the variance of LOS and 38% of the variance of functional outcome. Functional status on admission was the strongest determinant of LOS and completeness of the lesion was the strongest determinant of functional outcome. Etiology (traumatic versus non-traumatic) was a weak independent determinant of LOS but was not an independent determinant of functional outcome. Conclusion SCI patient's rehabilitation should be carried out by taking into account etiology of the injury. It is important to consider this information while developing the targets and planning of the rehabilitation program. In particular, older age negatively influence the degree of disability on admission and the entity of functional recovery in both populations. Non-traumatic lesions could have minor benefits after rehabilitation therapy if compared with traumatic ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Alito
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, Policlinico G. Martino, Italy
| | - V. Filardi
- D.A. Research and Internationalization, University of Messina, Via Consolato Del Mare 41, 98121, Messina, Italy,Corresponding author.
| | - F. Famà
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, University of Messina, Italy
| | - D. Bruschetta
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, University of Messina, Italy
| | - C. Ruggeri
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, Policlinico G. Martino, Italy
| | - G. Basile
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, University of Messina, Italy
| | - L. Stancanelli
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, Policlinico G. Martino, Italy
| | - C. D'Amico
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, Policlinico G. Martino, Italy
| | - S. Bianconi
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, Policlinico G. Martino, Italy
| | - A. Tisano
- Unità Operativa Complessa Medicina Fisica e Riabilitativa AOU, University of Messina, Italy
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Palco M, Rizzo P, Basile GC, Alito A, Bruschetta D, Accorinti M, Restuccia R, Leonetti D. Short- and Midterm Comparison of Platelet-Rich Plasma with Hyaluronic Acid versus Leucocyte and Platelet-Rich Plasma on Pain and Function to Treat Hip Osteoarthritis. A Retrospective Study. Gels 2021; 7:gels7040222. [PMID: 34842700 PMCID: PMC8628741 DOI: 10.3390/gels7040222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hip osteoarthritis (HOA) leads to pain and reduced function. The use of intra-articular injections based on corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or hyaluronic acid (HA) is becoming a common symptomatic therapy for HOA. For the first time, we compare the effectiveness of plasma with a high concentration of platelets and leukocytes (L-PRP) with PRP+HA in patients with mild to moderate HOA. A total of 26 patients in each group were administered with either L-PRP or PRP+HA. Outcomes were evaluated at baseline, 3 months, and 1 year after the injection. The mean visual analog scale (VAS) and Harris hip score (HHS) within and between groups among different time points were compared using repeated measures ANCOVA (age set as a covariate). Both treatments were effective in reducing VAS, but not in significantly increasing HHS. In the group treated with L-PRP, VAS showed interaction between time and treatment (in favor of L-PRP). Pairwise comparison for treatment and time point evidenced a significant difference at 1-year follow-up between L-PRP and PRP-HA. Outcomes support the idea that both treatments may be effective in reducing pain, with maximal pain reduction achieved after 3 months. L-PRP showed better results in reducing VAS over time. Both treatments are effective at reducing pain in the short to medium term. L-PRP could be the treatment of choice due to a more marked effect over time. Nevertheless, further research is needed to better describe the clinical outcome of these formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelangelo Palco
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (P.R.); (D.L.)
| | - Paolo Rizzo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (P.R.); (D.L.)
| | - Giorgio Carmelo Basile
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Angelo Alito
- Complex Operating Unit of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, 98124 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (M.A.); (R.R.)
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Maria Accorinti
- Complex Operating Unit of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, 98124 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (M.A.); (R.R.)
| | - Roberto Restuccia
- Complex Operating Unit of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, 98124 Messina, Italy; (A.A.); (M.A.); (R.R.)
| | - Danilo Leonetti
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Images, Section of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (M.P.); (P.R.); (D.L.)
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Lo Voi E, Basile GC, Bramanti A, Paladina G, Militi A, Bruschetta D, Alito A, Cavallaro F, Bertino S, Milardi D. Cerebellar Atrophy Associated with Primary Sjögren's Syndrome: Diagnosis, Therapy, and Virtual Reality Rehabilitation: A Case Report. Innov Clin Neurosci 2021; 18:11-17. [PMID: 34980988 PMCID: PMC8667698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cerebellar involvement in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is an uncommon condition, with only a limited number of cases described worldwide. A 43-year-old woman affected by cerebellar atrophy associated with pSS was referred to our center to undergo a cycle of physical rehabilitation therapy. Although motor symptoms started when the patient was 23 years of age, the underlying disease remained undiagnosed for several years. Neurological examination before rehabilitation revealed ataxic gait, dysmetria, nystagmus, and hypermetric saccades; the patients complained about unsteadiness while standing or walking. To improve balance and gait abilities, a 20-session cycle of balance rehabilitation, based on a combination of conventional physical therapy and virtual reality exergames, was prescribed. The outcomes of rehabilitation were evaluated with balance tests and three-dimensional (3D) gait analysis. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing the diagnostic workout for cerebellar atrophy associated with pSS and the subsequent motor rehabilitation. This work highlights the importance of early diagnosis and rehabilitation in patients with central nervous system involvement in pSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Lo Voi
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Giorgio Carmelo Basile
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Alessia Bramanti
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Paladina
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Annalisa Militi
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Angelo Alito
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Filippo Cavallaro
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Bertino
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Drs. Lo Voi, Bramanti, and Paladina are with the IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo in Messina, Italy
- Drs. Basile, Militi, Bertino, and Milardi are with the Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences, and Morphological and Functional Images at the University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Dr. Alito, Dr. Bruschetta, and Mr. Cavallaro are with U.O.C of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Medicine, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino in Messina, Italy
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Tisano A, Alito A, Milardi D, Fazio R, Virelli L, Zanella C, Ruggeri C, Filardi V, Bruschetta D. Statistical investigation about spinal clinical asymmetry in a school population. J Orthop 2020; 22:336-340. [PMID: 32904173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2020.08.011] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal disorders and obesity are increasing and are an important cause for concern among healthcare and educational bodies. There is a wide variability in the literature of clinical positivity for scoliosis in the examination of the spine. Aim Our study aims to investigate a relationship between scoliosis hump in schoolchildren and obesity, evaluating different kind of variables. Methods The sample was comprised by 478 schoolchildren from Italy, with a mean age of 12.6 years (SD: 1.861). They were classified by using ATR test, body mass index (BMI), the Edinburgh Inventory, the deep flexion test. Results Results of ATR test evidence 26 subjects (5,4%) positive for ATR ≥ 7; 102 subjects (21,3%) positive for ATR ≥ 6; and finally 191 subjects (40,0%) positive for ATR ≥ 5. There were 191 (40%) subjects with scoliosis; obesity was present in 62 (13%) cases and, after the regression, associations were found between scoliotic posture and gender, presence of obesity, and flexibility. Conclusions Our study confirms a relationship between obesity and scoliosis, which increases with the age. Female subjects have higher risks to develop humps and spinal disorders. It is advisable to use a combination of several parameters to achieve a more sensitive evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tisano
- Dep of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - A Alito
- U.O.C. Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Policlinico G. Martino, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - D Milardi
- Dep. of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - R Fazio
- Rehabilitation Center E. Spalenza, Don Gnocchi Foundation, Via Camillo Golgi 1, 25038, Rovato (BS), Italy
| | - L Virelli
- Section of Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Department of Rehabilitation and Functional Recovery, Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089, Rozzano (MI), Italy
| | - C Zanella
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso A.M. Dogliotti, 14, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - C Ruggeri
- Dep of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - V Filardi
- D.A. Research and Internationalization, University of Messina, V. C. Del Mare 41, 98100, Messina, Italy
| | - D Bruschetta
- Dep. of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria 1, 98100, Messina, Italy
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9
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Bertino S, Basile GA, Anastasi G, Bramanti A, Fonti B, Cavallaro F, Bruschetta D, Milardi D, Cacciola A. Anatomical Characterization of the Human Structural Connectivity between the Pedunculopontine Nucleus and Globus Pallidus via Multi-Shell Multi-Tissue Tractography. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56090452. [PMID: 32906651 PMCID: PMC7557768 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56090452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: The internal (GPi) and external segments (GPe) of the globus pallidus represent key nodes in the basal ganglia system. Connections to and from pallidal segments are topographically organized, delineating limbic, associative and sensorimotor territories. The topography of pallidal afferent and efferent connections with brainstem structures has been poorly investigated. In this study we sought to characterize in-vivo connections between the globus pallidus and the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) via diffusion tractography. Materials and Methods: We employed structural and diffusion data of 100 subjects from the Human Connectome Project repository in order to reconstruct the connections between the PPN and the globus pallidus, employing higher order tractography techniques. We assessed streamline count of the reconstructed bundles and investigated spatial relations between pallidal voxels connected to the PPN and pallidal limbic, associative and sensorimotor functional territories. Results: We successfully reconstructed pallidotegmental tracts for the GPi and GPe in all subjects. The number of streamlines connecting the PPN with the GPi was greater than the number of those joining it with the GPe. PPN maps within pallidal segments exhibited a distinctive spatial organization, being localized in the ventromedial portion of the GPi and in the ventral-anterior portion in the GPe. Regarding their spatial relations with tractography-derived maps of pallidal functional territories, the highest value of percentage overlap was noticed between PPN maps and the associative territory. Conclusions: We successfully reconstructed the anatomical course of the pallidotegmental pathways and comprehensively characterized their topographical arrangement within both pallidal segments. PPM maps were localized in the ventromedial aspect of the GPi, while they occupied the anterior pole and the most ventral portion of the GPe. A better understanding of the spatial and topographical arrangement of the pallidotegmental pathways may have pathophysiological and therapeutic implications in movement disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Bertino
- Brain Mapping Lab, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.A.B.); (G.A.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (A.C.); Tel.: +39-090-2217143 (S.B. & A.C.)
| | - Gianpaolo Antonio Basile
- Brain Mapping Lab, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.A.B.); (G.A.); (D.M.)
| | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Brain Mapping Lab, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.A.B.); (G.A.); (D.M.)
| | - Alessia Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98124 Messina, Italy; (A.B.); (B.F.)
| | - Bartolo Fonti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, 98124 Messina, Italy; (A.B.); (B.F.)
| | - Filippo Cavallaro
- Physical Rehabilitation Medicine and Sport Medicine Unit, University Hospital Policlinico “G. Martino”, 98124 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (D.B.)
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Physical Rehabilitation Medicine and Sport Medicine Unit, University Hospital Policlinico “G. Martino”, 98124 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (D.B.)
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Brain Mapping Lab, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.A.B.); (G.A.); (D.M.)
- Physical Rehabilitation Medicine and Sport Medicine Unit, University Hospital Policlinico “G. Martino”, 98124 Messina, Italy; (F.C.); (D.B.)
| | - Alberto Cacciola
- Brain Mapping Lab, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.A.B.); (G.A.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence: (S.B.); (A.C.); Tel.: +39-090-2217143 (S.B. & A.C.)
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10
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Naro A, Pignolo L, Sorbera C, Latella D, Billeri L, Manuli A, Portaro S, Bruschetta D, Calabrò RS. A Case-Controlled Pilot Study on Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation-Assisted Gait Training and Conventional Physiotherapy in Patients With Parkinson's Disease Submitted to Deep Brain Stimulation. Front Neurol 2020; 11:794. [PMID: 32849240 PMCID: PMC7417712 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is indicated when motor disturbances in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) are refractory to current treatment options and significantly impair quality of life. However, post–DBS rehabilitation is essential, with particular regard to gait. Rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS)-assisted treadmill gait rehabilitation within conventional physiotherapy program plays a major role in gait recovery. We explored the effects of a monthly RAS–assisted treadmill training within a conventional physiotherapy program on gait performance and gait-related EEG dynamics (while walking on the RAS–aided treadmill) in PD patients with (n = 10) and without DBS (n = 10). Patients with DBS achieved superior results than those without DBS concerning gait velocity, overall motor performance, and the timed velocity and self-confidence in balance, sit-to-stand (and vice versa) and walking, whereas both groups improved in dynamic and static balance, overall cognitive performance, and the fear of falling. The difference in motor outcomes between the two groups was paralleled by a stronger remodulation of gait cycle–related beta oscillations in patients with DBS as compared to those without DBS. Our work suggests that RAS-assisted gait training plus conventional physiotherapy is a useful strategy to improve gait performance in PD patients with and without DBS. Interestingly, patients with DBS may benefit more from this approach owing to a more focused and dynamic re–configuration of sensorimotor network beta oscillations related to gait secondary to the association between RAS-treadmill, conventional physiotherapy, and DBS. Actually, the coupling of these approaches may help restoring a residually altered beta–band response profile despite DBS intervention, thus better tailoring the gait rehabilitation of these PD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Naro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo - Piemonte, Messina, Italy
| | - Loris Pignolo
- S. Anna Institute, Research in Advanced Neurorehabilitation (RAN), Crotone, Italy
| | - Chiara Sorbera
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo - Piemonte, Messina, Italy
| | - Desiree Latella
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo - Piemonte, Messina, Italy
| | - Luana Billeri
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo - Piemonte, Messina, Italy
| | - Alfredo Manuli
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo - Piemonte, Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Portaro
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo - Piemonte, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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11
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Calabrò RS, Cacciola A, Bruschetta D, Milardi D, Quattrini F, Sciarrone F, la Rosa G, Bramanti P, Anastasi G. Neuroanatomy and function of human sexual behavior: A neglected or unknown issue? Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01389. [PMID: 31568703 PMCID: PMC6908863 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm are mediated by complex, yet still not fully understood, interactions of the somatic and autonomic nervous systems operating at the central and peripheral levels. Disruption of endocrine, neural, or vascular response, caused by aging, medical illness, neurological diseases, surgery, or drugs, can lead to sexual dysfunctions, thus significantly affecting patients' quality of life. PURPOSE This narrative review aims at characterizing the involvement of the central nervous system in human sexual behavior. METHODS A literature search was conducted using PubMed in its entirety up to June 2018, analyzing the studies dealing with the neurobiological and neurophysiological basis of human sexuality. RESULTS Sexual behavior is regulated by both subcortical structures, such as the hypothalamus, brainstem, and spinal cord, and several cortical brain areas acting as an orchestra to finely adjust this primitive, complex, and versatile behavior. At the central level, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems appear to play a significant role in various factors of sexual response, although adrenergic, cholinergic, and other neuropeptide transmitter systems may contribute as well. CONCLUSIONS Providing healthcare professionals with information concerning sexual behavior may overcome useless and sometimes dangerous barriers and improve patient management, since sexual well-being is considered one of the most important aspects of one's quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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12
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Milardi D, Quartarone A, Bramanti A, Anastasi G, Bertino S, Basile GA, Buonasera P, Pilone G, Celeste G, Rizzo G, Bruschetta D, Cacciola A. The Cortico-Basal Ganglia-Cerebellar Network: Past, Present and Future Perspectives. Front Syst Neurosci 2019; 13:61. [PMID: 31736719 PMCID: PMC6831548 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2019.00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Much of our present understanding of the function and operation of the basal ganglia rests on models of anatomical connectivity derived from tract-tracing approaches in rodents and primates. However, the last years have been characterized by promising step forwards in the in vivo investigation and comprehension of brain connectivity in humans. The aim of this review is to revise the current knowledge on basal ganglia circuits, highlighting similarities and differences across species, in order to widen the current perspective on the intricate model of the basal ganglia system. This will allow us to explore the implications of additional direct pathways running from cortex to basal ganglia and between basal ganglia and cerebellum recently described in animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Angelo Quartarone
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Bertino
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Antonio Basile
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Celeste
- I.S.A.S.I.E. Caianello, National Research Council, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rizzo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alberto Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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13
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Cacciola A, Bertino S, Basile GA, Di Mauro D, Calamuneri A, Chillemi G, Duca A, Bruschetta D, Flace P, Favaloro A, Calabrò RS, Anastasi G, Milardi D. Mapping the structural connectivity between the periaqueductal gray and the cerebellum in humans. Brain Struct Funct 2019; 224:2153-2165. [PMID: 31165919 PMCID: PMC6591182 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-019-01893-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The periaqueductal gray is a mesencephalic structure involved in modulation of responses to stressful stimuli. Structural connections between the periaqueductal gray and the cerebellum have been described in animals and in a few diffusion tensor imaging studies. Nevertheless, these periaqueductal gray–cerebellum connectivity patterns have yet to be fully investigated in humans. The objective of this study was to qualitatively and quantitatively characterize such pathways using high-resolution, multi-shell data of 100 healthy subjects from the open-access Human Connectome Project repository combined with constrained spherical deconvolution probabilistic tractography. Our analysis revealed robust connectivity density profiles between the periaqueductal gray and cerebellar nuclei, especially with the fastigial nucleus, followed by the interposed and dentate nuclei. High-connectivity densities have been observed between vermal (Vermis IX, Vermis VIIIa, Vermis VIIIb, Vermis VI, Vermis X) and hemispheric cerebellar regions (Lobule IX). Our in vivo study provides for the first time insights on the organization of periaqueductal gray–cerebellar pathways thus opening new perspectives on cognitive, visceral and motor responses to threatening stimuli in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Bertino
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Antonio Basile
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Debora Di Mauro
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Duca
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paolo Flace
- School of Medicine, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Angelo Favaloro
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- School of Medicine, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
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14
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Piccione G, Giannetto C, Bruschetta D, Congiu F, Arfuso F, Giudice E. Influence of exercise and dietary omega-3 oil supplementation on interleukin 1-Ra serum concentrations in Standardbred horses. Anim Prod Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1071/an16310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the influence of fish oil eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid supplementation on serum interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) concentrations was evaluated in horses subjected to a regular racing program. IL-1Ra is an anti-inflammatory protein. It binds to IL-1 receptors blocking the attachment of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Ten regularly trained Standardbred horses (6 geldings and 4 mares, 4–5 years old, mean bodyweight 500 ± 25 kg) were used. They were randomly divided in two equal groups. The experimental group received a supplementation of 70 mL of fish oil (Omega Horse; NBF Lanes, Milan, Italy) every day for 30 days. The control group did not receive any food supplement. Every 10 days (T0, T10, T20 and T30), the horses took part in a 1600-m harness race, and blood samples were collected from each horse before the race and after the race for the measurement of IL-1Ra serum concentration. The application of general linear model-multivariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed an effect of race and dietary supplementation. The effect of race on serum IL-1Ra concentrations was observed starting from T20. In particular, serum IL-1Ra showed higher values after the race in both groups at T20; whereas at T30, serum IL-1Ra values increased in the control group and decreased in the experimental group. The results obtained in the present study suggest that submaximal exercise induces an increase of IL-1Ra serum concentration after 20 days of a racing program. Fish oil supplementation had a positive effect on post-exercise response of serum IL-1Ra concentration compared with the unsupplemented control group, suggesting dietary fish oil reduces the response to inflammatory processes induced by physical activity.
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15
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Bruschetta D, Anastasi G, Andronaco V, Cascio F, Rizzo G, Di Mauro D, Bonanno L, Izzo V, Buda D, Vermiglio G, Bertino S, Cacciola G, Bramanti A, Milardi D. Human calf muscles changes after strength training as revealed by diffusion tensor imaging. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2018; 59:853-860. [PMID: 30024127 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.18.08759-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a non-invasive MR technique widely employed to study muscle anatomy. DTI parameters have been used to investigate microstructural changes dependent on demographic factors or transient condition such as exercise. The present study is aimed at investigating the diffusion parameters changes of the human calf muscles after a 3-months strength training protocol. METHODS Ten young men were trained for improving size and strength of the medial (GCM), lateral gastrocnemius (GCL) and soleus (SL) three times a week, with at least 24 hours between training sessions, for a period of three months. Diffusion weighted magnetic resonance images were acquired at the beginning of the training period (TPRE) and at three months (TPOST) using a 3T scanner. The fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD) and tensor eigenvalues (λ1, λ2, λ3) were derived from the diffusion weighted imaging data. RESULTS We found a significant increase in λ1, λ2, λ3 and MD values and muscle volumes between TPRE and TPOST in all the examined muscles both for the left and right side. No significant differences were highlighted for FA. CONCLUSIONS DTI enables the investigation of muscle microstructure, allowing for the assessment of diffusion parameters variation of the muscle tissue in response to training thus being a useful tool to investigate physiological and pathological changes in skeletal muscle microstructure which could be employed to test the outcomes and the effectiveness of a given training protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Filippo Cascio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Papardo Hospital, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rizzo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Debora Di Mauro
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Lilla Bonanno
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Viviana Izzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Diego Buda
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanna Vermiglio
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Bertino
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giorgio Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessia Bramanti
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy.,National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Applied Sciences and Intelligent System "Eduardo Caianello" (ISASI), Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy - .,IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
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16
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Cacciola G, Anastasi G, Bertino S, Rizzo G, Cutroneo G, Trimarchi F, Pisani A, Cavaliere P, Barbanera A, Bruschetta D. Anatomical differences in the bony structure of L5 and L4: A possible classification according to the lateral tilt of the pedicles. J Orthop 2018; 15:205-209. [PMID: 29657469 DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2018.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to underline the necessity of a better knowledge of pedicles anatomy in order to improve surgical treatment of spine disorders such us low back pain, spinal fractures and scholiosis. A classification of pedicles lateral tilt which could help surgeons before the application of screws during transpedicular fixation is reported. Anatomical differences in the orientiation of the pedicles of L5 and L4 have been found. For each patient that met the inclusion criteria underwent: Radiography of the lumbo-sacral region, CT examination, MRI acquisition. Patients were divided into three categories thanks to 3D direct volume rendering of CT scan. Subjects belonged to W-Type, V-Type and U-type depending on their morphometric features. The subdivision was further implemented with measurements of the distance between pedicles and adjacent nervous structures. Concerning L5, W-Type (WT) exhibited a lateral tilt of L5 larger than 36°, V-Type exhibited a lateral tilt of L5 from 30° to 36°, U-type exhibited a lateral tilt of L5 smaller than 30°. Concerning L4, WT exhibited a lateral tilt of 28.4°, VT exhibited a lateral tilt of of 25.1, UT exhibited a lateral tilt of 22.2°; we assume that the degree of lateralization of L4 depends on the one of L5. The way the screw is applied during surgical treatment is clinically relevant, thus our classification may be very useful in order to decrease surgical risk and improve conditions of patients after surgical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Cacciola
- University of Messina, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- University of Messina, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Bertino
- University of Messina, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rizzo
- University of Messina, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cutroneo
- University of Messina, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, Messina, Italy
| | - Fabio Trimarchi
- University of Messina, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pisani
- Istituto Ortopedico del Mezzogiorno d'Italia "Franco Scalabrino", Dipartimento di Chirurgia Vertebrale, Messina, Italy
| | - Pietro Cavaliere
- Istituto Ortopedico del Mezzogiorno d'Italia "Franco Scalabrino", Dipartimento di Chirurgia Vertebrale, Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Barbanera
- A.O.N. SS Antonio Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, Dipartimento di Neurochirurgia, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- University of Messina, Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, Messina, Italy.,IRCCS Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
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17
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Cacciola A, Calabrò RS, Costa A, Naro A, Milardi D, Bruschetta D. Enlarged Virchow-Robin Spaces in A Young Man: A Constrained Spherical Deconvolution Tractography Study. Acta Biomed 2017; 88:319-324. [PMID: 29083338 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v88i3.5181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Virchow-Robin spaces are mainly located along the path of the lenticulo-striate arteries in the basal ganglia through the anterior perforate substance, and can be found both in normal subjects, as a rare phenomenon, and in patients with different diseases. We report a case of a healthy young man with unilateral enlarged Virchow-Robin spaces in the left capsule-lenticulostriate area. Aim of this case report is to show the potential of probabilistic Constrained Spherical Deconvolution (CSD) tractography in showing abnormal diffusion tensor imaging and tractography of the anterior thalamic tracts caused by mass effect from adjacent enlarged Virchow-Robin spaces. METHODS The study was performed with a 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner (Achieva, Philips Healthcare, Best, Netherlands); equipped with a 32-channel SENSE head coil. Diffusion Weighted Images were analyzed by using CSD, a fast computation method that overcomes major limitations of Diffusion Tensor Imaging allowing reliable estimation of one or more fiber orientations in the presence of intravoxel orientational heterogeneity. RESULTS Tractography showed increased Fractional Anisotropy and reduced Apparent Diffusion Coefficient values, a displacement and compression of the anterior thalamic projections by part of the enlarged VRS, and a decrease of white matter fibers in the left side in comparison to the right one. CONCLUSIONS We report on a case of a healthy individual with unilateral dilated VRS in the capsulo-lenticulostriatal area, proving the utility of diffusion MRI and tractography in understanding the abnormal neuroanatomy of this particular condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Cacciola
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124 Messina.
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Cacciola A, Milardi D, Calamuneri A, Bonanno L, Marino S, Ciolli P, Russo M, Bruschetta D, Duca A, Trimarchi F, Quartarone A, Anastasi G. Constrained Spherical Deconvolution Tractography Reveals Cerebello-Mammillary Connections in Humans. Cerebellum 2017; 16:483-495. [PMID: 27774574 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-016-0830-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
According to the classical view, the cerebellum has long been confined to motor control physiology; however, it has now become evident that it exerts several non-somatic features other than the coordination of movement and is engaged also in the regulation of cognition and emotion. In a previous diffusion-weighted imaging-constrained spherical deconvolution (CSD) tractography study, we demonstrated the existence of a direct cerebellum-hippocampal pathway, thus reinforcing the hypothesis of the cerebellar role in non-motor domains. However, our understanding of limbic-cerebellar interconnectivity in humans is rather sparse, primarily due to the intrinsic limitation in the acquisition of in vivo tracing. Here, we provided tractographic evidences of connectivity patterns between the cerebellum and mammillary bodies by using whole-brain CSD tractography in 13 healthy subjects. We found both ipsilateral and contralateral connections between the mammillary bodies, cerebellar cortex, and dentate nucleus, in line with previous studies performed in rodents and primates. These pathways could improve our understanding of cerebellar role in several autonomic functions, visuospatial orientation, and memory and may shed new light on neurodegenerative diseases in which clinically relevant impairments in navigational skills or memory may become manifest at early stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy.
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy.,IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Calamuneri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Lilla Bonanno
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Silvia Marino
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Pietro Ciolli
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Margherita Russo
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Duca
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Fabio Trimarchi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Angelo Quartarone
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy.,IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", S.S. 113, Via Palermo, C.da Casazza, 98124, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
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19
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Bonanno L, Marino S, De Salvo S, Ciurleo R, Costa A, Bruschetta D, Milardi D, Galletti F, Bramanti P, Caminiti F. Role of diffusion tensor imaging in the diagnosis and management of post-traumatic anosmia. Brain Inj 2017; 31:1964-1968. [DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2017.1346293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lilla Bonanno
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi ‘Bonino-Pulejo’, Messina, Italy
| | - Silvia Marino
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi ‘Bonino-Pulejo’, Messina, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Costa
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi ‘Bonino-Pulejo’, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Galletti
- Department of Human Pathology of Adult Evolutionary Age ‘Gaetano Barresi’, Messina, Italy
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20
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Giannetto C, Arfuso F, Fazio F, Giudice E, Pietro SD, Bruschetta D, Piccione G. Different training schedules influence platelet aggregation in show jumping horses. Pol J Vet Sci 2017; 20:149-154. [PMID: 28525338 DOI: 10.1515/pjvs-2017-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Depending on the intensity, duration and type of physical exercise, equine metabolism has to adapt to nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine and respiratory system requirements. In horses, exercise and training are known to have considerable effects on the mechanisms of hemostatic system involving platelet activity. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of different training schedules on platelet aggregation in 15 Italian Saddle jumping horses. Animals were divided into three equal groups: Group A was subjected to a high intensity-training program; group B to a light training program, group C included sedentary horses. From each animal, blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture at rest on the 1st, 3rd and 5th days, and afterwards, once a week, for a total of 5 weeks data recording, in order to assess the maximum degree of platelet aggregation and the initial velocity of aggregation (slope) platelet aggregation. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant effect of the different training schedules on studied parameters. The results revealed a different degree of platelet aggregation and a different initial velocity of platelet aggregation that changes during the different training schedules in horses that could represent a different protective endothelial mechanism. These findings could have an important role for a clearer knowledge of the physiological reference values of platelet aggregation and for a better interpretation of these variations during the training.
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21
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Milardi D, Cacciola A, Calamuneri A, Ghilardi MF, Caminiti F, Cascio F, Andronaco V, Anastasi G, Mormina E, Arrigo A, Bruschetta D, Quartarone A. The Olfactory System Revealed: Non-Invasive Mapping by using Constrained Spherical Deconvolution Tractography in Healthy Humans. Front Neuroanat 2017; 11:32. [PMID: 28443000 PMCID: PMC5385345 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2017.00032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the olfactory sense has always been considered with less interest than the visual, auditive or somatic senses, it does plays a major role in our ordinary life, with important implication in dangerous situations or in social and emotional behaviors. Traditional Diffusion Tensor signal model and related tractography have been used in the past years to reconstruct the cranial nerves, including the olfactory nerve (ON). However, no supplementary information with regard to the pathways of the olfactory network have been provided. Here, by using the more advanced Constrained Spherical Deconvolution (CSD) diffusion model, we show for the first time in vivo and non-invasively that, in healthy humans, the olfactory system has a widely distributed anatomical network to several cortical regions as well as to many subcortical structures. Although the present study focuses on an healthy sample size, a similar approach could be applied in the near future to gain important insights with regard to the early involvement of olfaction in several neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetrio Milardi
- Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo (IRCCS)Messina, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Calamuneri
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | - Maria F Ghilardi
- Sophie Davis School for Biomedical Education, City College New York (CCNY), The City University of New York (CUNY)New York, NY, USA.,The Fresco Institute for Parkinson's and Movement Disorders, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York UniversityNew York, NY, USA
| | | | - Filippo Cascio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Papardo HospitalMessina, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | - Enricomaria Mormina
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo (IRCCS)Messina, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | - Angelo Quartarone
- Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo (IRCCS)Messina, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
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22
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Bonanno L, Sottile F, Ciurleo R, Di Lorenzo G, Bruschetta D, Bramanti A, Ascenti G, Bramanti P, Marino S. Automatic Algorithm for Segmentation of Atherosclerotic Carotid Plaque. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2017; 26:411-416. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2016.09.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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23
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Rizzo M, Arfuso F, Giannetto C, Giudice E, Longo F, Bruschetta D, Piccione G. Acupuncture Needle Stimulation on Some Physiological Parameters After Road Transport and Physical Exercise in Horse. J Equine Vet Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2016.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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24
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Piccione G, Rizzo M, Arfuso F, Bruschetta D, Giudice E, Assenza A. Iron Metabolism Modification During Repeated Show Jumping Event in Equine Athletes. Annals of Animal Science 2017. [DOI: 10.1515/aoas-2016-0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
In athletic horse the evaluation of iron status is of great importance to improve physical performance and health status of animal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes of iron indices following show jumping. Ten regularly trained Italian Saddlebred horses aged 7-8 years (mean body weight 467±12 kg) were subjected to three days jumping competition. Blood samples were collected at 5 time points: T0 (the day before competitions), T1 (immediately after exercise at day 1), T2 (immediately after exercise at day 2), T3 (immediately after exercise at day 3) and during the recovery period T4 (24 h after day 3). On each blood sample the values of red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), serum iron, ferritin, transferrin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) and unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC) were assessed. One-way repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a statistical significant effect of exercise (P<0.05) on all studied parameters. The application of Bonferroni’s post-hoc comparison showed a statistical significant increase in all studied parameters after exercise. These results provide new information about the changes in iron profile of jumper horse following exercise allowing for better evaluation of the health status and physical performance of this athlete horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168, Messina , Italy
| | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168, Messina , Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168, Messina , Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125, Messina , Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, University of Messina, 98166 S. Agata-Messina , Italy
| | - Anna Assenza
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, Educational and Cultural Studies, University of Messina, Via Concezione 8, 98122, Messina , Italy
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25
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Cacciola A, Calabrò RS, Costa A, Naro A, Milardi D, Bruschetta D. Enlarged Virchow-Robin Spaces in A Young Man: A Constrained Spherical Deconvolution Tractography Study. Acta Biomed 2017; 88. [PMID: 29083338 PMCID: PMC6142836 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v%vi%i.5181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Virchow-Robin spaces are mainly located along the path of the lenticulo-striate arteries in the basal ganglia through the anterior perforate substance, and can be found both in normal subjects, as a rare phenomenon, and in patients with different diseases. We report a case of a healthy young man with unilateral enlarged Virchow-Robin spaces in the left capsule-lenticulostriate area. Aim of this case report is to show the potential of probabilistic Constrained Spherical Deconvolution (CSD) tractography in showing abnormal diffusion tensor imaging and tractography of the anterior thalamic tracts caused by mass effect from adjacent enlarged Virchow-Robin spaces. METHODS The study was performed with a 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner (Achieva, Philips Healthcare, Best, Netherlands); equipped with a 32-channel SENSE head coil. Diffusion Weighted Images were analyzed by using CSD, a fast computation method that overcomes major limitations of Diffusion Tensor Imaging allowing reliable estimation of one or more fiber orientations in the presence of intravoxel orientational heterogeneity. RESULTS Tractography showed increased Fractional Anisotropy and reduced Apparent Diffusion Coefficient values, a displacement and compression of the anterior thalamic projections by part of the enlarged VRS, and a decrease of white matter fibers in the left side in comparison to the right one. CONCLUSIONS We report on a case of a healthy individual with unilateral dilated VRS in the capsulo-lenticulostriatal area, proving the utility of diffusion MRI and tractography in understanding the abnormal neuroanatomy of this particular condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Cacciola
- RCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, Messina, Italy,Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Italy,Correspondance: Alberto Cacciola Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy Tel. +39 0902217143 E-mail:
| | | | - Antonio Costa
- RCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Naro
- RCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- RCCS Centro Neurolesi “Bonino Pulejo”, Messina, Italy,Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Italy
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26
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Bruschetta D, Milardi D, Trimarchi F, DI Mauro D, Valenti A, Arrigo A, Valenti B, Santoro G, Cascio F, Vaccarino G, Cacciola A. Muscle contracture diagnosis: the role of sonoelastography. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2016; 56:1518-1525. [PMID: 26990421] [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: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sonoelastography plays today a major role in musculoskeletal disease, showing minor muscle injuries not well appreciable in conventional B-mode ultrasonography and integrating it in major muscle injuries diagnosis. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the ability of elastosonography in the diagnosis of muscular contracture in football players presenting negative basic echography. METHODS We examined twenty-two football players using basic echography and elastosonography approximately 24-48 hours after the traumatic event and we subsequently re-evaluated them after two weeks. RESULTS Conventional echography showed, in the early stage, no muscle injuries; in twenty-two out of twenty-two patients, sonoelastography had instead underlined a heterogeneous colorimetric map, related to decreased elasticity in the area of the muscle contracture. An evaluation effected 1-2 weeks later showed a clear improvement of the sonoelastographic appearance. CONCLUSIONS This information will be useful for prognostication, post-traumatic monitoring and to detect subclinical changes in MIs even before there are changes on the routine B-mode ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy -
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Fabio Trimarchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Debora DI Mauro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Valenti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Valenti
- Diagnostics Fiumara Centre, Santa Teresa Riva, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Santoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Filippo Cascio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Vaccarino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alberto Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Assenza A, Arfuso F, Zanghì E, Fazio F, Bruschetta D, Piccione G. Lipid and Lipoprotein Profiles Modification in Athletic Horses After Repeated Jumping Events. J Equine Vet Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2016.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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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28
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Cacciola A, Milardi D, Anastasi GP, Basile GA, Ciolli P, Irrera M, Cutroneo G, Bruschetta D, Rizzo G, Mondello S, Bramanti P, Quartarone A. A Direct Cortico-Nigral Pathway as Revealed by Constrained Spherical Deconvolution Tractography in Humans. Front Hum Neurosci 2016; 10:374. [PMID: 27507940 PMCID: PMC4960230 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Substantia nigra is an important neuronal structure, located in the ventral midbrain, that exerts a regulatory function within the basal ganglia circuitry through the nigro-striatal pathway. Although its subcortical connections are relatively well-known in human brain, little is known about its cortical connections. The existence of a direct cortico-nigral pathway has been demonstrated in rodents and primates but only hypothesized in humans. In this study, we aimed at evaluating cortical connections of substantia nigra in vivo in human brain by using probabilistic constrained spherical deconvolution (CSD) tractography on magnetic resonance diffusion weighted imaging data. We found that substantia nigra is connected with cerebral cortex as a whole, with the most representative connections involving prefrontal cortex, precentral and postcentral gyri and superior parietal lobule. These results may be relevant for the comprehension of the pathophysiology of several neurological disorders involving substantia nigra, such as parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and pathological addictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy; IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo"Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe P Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo A Basile
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Pietro Ciolli
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Mariangela Irrera
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cutroneo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rizzo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Stefania Mondello
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | | | - Angelo Quartarone
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy; IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo"Messina, Italy
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Bazzano M, Giudice E, Rizzo M, Congiu F, Zumbo A, Arfuso F, Di Pietro S, Bruschetta D, Piccione G. Application of a combined global positioning and heart rate monitoring system in jumper horses during an official competition - A preliminary study. Acta Vet Hung 2016; 64:189-200. [PMID: 27342090 DOI: 10.1556/004.2016.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether a combined global positioning system (GPS)/heart rate (HR) monitoring system is a valuable tool to assess, step by step, the physiological response of HR and its relationship with speed in healthy horses competing in an official show jumping class. Six mares performing a standardised warm-up and jumping course were monitored using a HR/GPS device. Venous blood lactate (BL), assessed before and after exercise, showed a significant increase (P = 0.0004) following the physical effort. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant changes in HR throughout the experimental period. The analysis of HR data recorded during the warm-up jumping stage showed significantly higher HR (P = 0.001) in the recovery period compared to the related jumping phase. Shifting the fence height from 100 cm to 125 cm during the warm-up jumps was also found to cause a significant increase (P = 0.016) in HR. According to these preliminary results, the simultaneous logging of heart rate and speed has the potential to be a reliable and powerful technique for field testing that can help in the monitoring of the horse's response to jumping effort during training and competition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Bazzano
- 1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- 2Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, S. Agata-Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Rizzo
- 1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Fulvio Congiu
- 1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zumbo
- 1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesca Arfuso
- 1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Di Pietro
- 1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- 3Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morpho-functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- 1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Piccione G, Bazzano M, Bruschetta D, Giannetto C, Arfuso F, Giudice E. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Food Enrichment Influences Some Serum Acute Phase Proteins Concentration and White Blood Cell Count in Athlete Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2015.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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31
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Terranova C, Rizzo V, Rajan T, Naro A, Ahmad A, Ghilardi M, Bruschetta D, Girlanda P, Cuzzocrea S, Wang H, Quartarone A. 58. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation induces neuroprotection via activating CaMKII α -CREB-Bcl-2 pathway in rat brain. Clin Neurophysiol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2015.09.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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32
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Milardi D, Arrigo A, Anastasi G, Cacciola A, Marino S, Mormina E, Calamuneri A, Bruschetta D, Cutroneo G, Trimarchi F, Quartarone A. Extensive Direct Subcortical Cerebellum-Basal Ganglia Connections in Human Brain as Revealed by Constrained Spherical Deconvolution Tractography. Front Neuroanat 2016; 10:29. [PMID: 27047348 PMCID: PMC4796021 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2016.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The connections between the cerebellum and basal ganglia were assumed to occur at the level of neocortex. However evidences from animal data have challenged this old perspective showing extensive subcortical pathways linking the cerebellum with the basal ganglia. Here we tested the hypothesis if these connections also exist between the cerebellum and basal ganglia in the human brain by using diffusion magnetic resonance imaging and tractography. Fifteen healthy subjects were analyzed by using constrained spherical deconvolution technique obtained with a 3T magnetic resonance imaging scanner. We found extensive connections running between the subthalamic nucleus and cerebellar cortex and, as novel result, we demonstrated a direct route linking the dentate nucleus to the internal globus pallidus as well as to the substantia nigra. These findings may open a new scenario on the interpretation of basal ganglia disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetrio Milardi
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", MessinaItaly; Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Alberto Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Silvia Marino
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", MessinaItaly; Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
| | - Enricomaria Mormina
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Calamuneri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Cutroneo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Fabio Trimarchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Angelo Quartarone
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", MessinaItaly; Department of Biomedical Sciences and of Morphological and Functional Images, University of MessinaMessina, Italy
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Assenza A, Marafioti S, Congiu F, Giannetto C, Fazio F, Bruschetta D, Piccione G. Serum muscle-derived enzymes response during show jumping competition in horse. Vet World 2016; 9:251-5. [PMID: 27057107 PMCID: PMC4823284 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2016.251-255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The effect of two jumping competitions, performed in two consecutive weekends, on serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), urea, creatinine (CREA) concentrations were evaluated in 12 healthy jumper horses. Materials and Methods: Blood sampling was performed before the 1st day of competition (T0), at the end of each show (J1, J2), on the day after the competition (T1); the same sampling plan was followed during the second weekend (J3, J4 and T2). Results: One-way repeated measures analysis of variance showed an increase in CPK at J1 and J2 respect to T0 and at J3 and J4 respect to all other time points (p<0.05). LDH activity showed an increase at J2 respect to T0, at J3 respect to T0, J1, J2 and at J4 respect to all other time points (p<0.05). AST values increased at J1 and J2 respect to T0 (p<0.05). A significant increase of CREA was found at J3 respect to T0, T1 and J1 and at J4 respect to all other time points (p<0.05). A decrease in serum urea levels was found at J1 respect to T0, at J2 and J4 respect to T0 and T1; at T2 respect to T0 (p<0.05). A positive correlation between urea/CPK (p=0.0042, r2=0.030), LDH/CPK (p<0.0001, r2=0.535), CREA/LDH (p<0.0001, r2=0.263), CREA/CPK (p<0.0001, r2=0.496) was observed. Conclusion: Our results suggest that 5 days recovery period between the two consecutive competition weekends is insufficient to allow muscle recovery and avoid potential additional stress. The findings obtained in this study improve the knowledge about metabolic changes occurring in athlete horse during the competition to identify muscle alterations following show jumping competitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Assenza
- Department of Cognitive Science, Education and Cultural Studies, University of Messina, Via Concezione n 6-8, 98122, Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Marafioti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Fulvio Congiu
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Giannetto
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morpho-functional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Piccione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata, 98168, Messina, Italy
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Cutroneo G, Bruschetta D, Trimarchi F, Cacciola A, Cinquegrani M, Duca A, Rizzo G, Alati E, Gaeta M, Milardi D. In Vivo CT Direct Volume Rendering: A Three-Dimensional Anatomical Description of the Heart. Pol J Radiol 2016; 81:21-8. [PMID: 26858778 PMCID: PMC4727493 DOI: 10.12659/pjr.895476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since cardiac anatomy continues to play an important role in the practice of medicine and in the development of medical devices, the study of the heart in three dimensions is particularly useful to understand its real structure, function and proper location in the body. MATERIAL/METHODS This study demonstrates a fine use of direct volume rendering, processing the data set images obtained by Computed Tomography (CT) of the heart of 5 subjects with age range between 18 and 42 years (2 male, 3 female), with no history of any overt cardiac disease. The cardiac structure in CT images was first extracted from the thorax by marking manually the regions of interest on the computer, and then it was stacked to create new volumetric data. RESULTS The use of a specific algorithm allowed us to observe with a good perception of depth the heart and the skeleton of the thorax at the same time. Besides, in all examined subjects, it was possible to depict its structure and its position within the body and to study the integrity of papillary muscles, the fibrous tissue of cardiac valve and chordae tendineae and the course of coronary arteries. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that one of the greatest advantages of algorithmic modifications of direct volume rendering parameters is that this method provides much necessary information in a single radiologic study. It implies a better accuracy in the study of the heart, being complementary to other diagnostic methods and facilitating the therapeutic plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Cutroneo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Fabio Trimarchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Alberto Cacciola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Cinquegrani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Duca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rizzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Emanuela Alati
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Ospedale Vita e Salute, San Raffaele, Milano, Italy
| | - Michele Gaeta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy; IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
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Rajan TS, Cuzzocrea S, Bruschetta D, Quartarone A. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation as a Novel Therapy in Animal Models of Traumatic Brain Injury. Methods Mol Biol 2016; 1462:433-443. [PMID: 27604732 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3816-2_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) in humans causes a broad range of structural damage and functional deficits due to both primary and secondary injury mechanisms. Over the past three decades, animal models have been established to replicate the diverse changes of human TBI, to study the underlying pathophysiology and to develop new therapeutic strategies. However, drugs that were identified as neuroprotective in animal brain injury models were not successful in clinical trials phase II or phase III. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a powerful noninvasive approach to excite cortical neurons in humans and animals, widely applied for therapeutic purpose in patients with brain diseases. In addition, recent animal studies showed rTMS as a strong neuroprotective tool. In this chapter, we discuss the rationale and mechanisms related to rTMS as well as therapeutic applications and putative molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, relevant biochemical studies and neuroprotective effect in animal models and possible application of rTMS as a novel treatment for rodent brain injury models are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thangavelu Soundara Rajan
- Department of Neurosciences, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Manchester Biomedical Research Center, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Angelo Quartarone
- Department of Neurosciences, Policlinico Universitario, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo", Messina, Italy.
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, City University of New York Medical School, New York, NY, USA.
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Terranova C, Rizzo V, Calamuneri A, Bartolone L, Morgante F, Bruschetta D, Roberto V, Girlanda P, Benvenga S, Quartarone A. Cortical excitability in patients with resistance to thyroid hormone compared to patients with hypothyroidism and euthyroid controls: a transcranial magnetic stimulation study. Arch Ital Biol 2016; 154:68-77. [PMID: 27918064 DOI: 10.12871/00039829201624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Resistance to thyroid hormone (RTH) describes a rare syndrome in which serum levels of thyroid hormones are elevated but serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) are unsuppressed. The importance of thyroid hormones for the normal function of the adult brain is corroborated by the frequent association of thyroid dysfunctions with neurological and psychiatric symptoms. In this study we investigated whether adult thyroid hormone resistance affects cortical excitability and modulates inhibitory and excitatory intracortical circuitries by using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Cortical excitability was probed with transcranial magnetic stimulation in 4 patients with thyroid hormone resistance, 10 patients affected by overt hypothyroidism (OH) and 10 age-matched healthy controls. We tested motor thresholds, motor evoked potential recruitment curve, cortical silent period (CSP), short interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and intracortical facilitation. In both OH and RTH patients, the inhibitory cortical circuits were affected compared with euthyroid controls, but in opposite ways. In OH patients, CSP was prolonged and SICI was decreased. On the contrary, in RTH patients CSP was shortened and SICI was increased. Thyroid hormones may influence cortical excitability and cortical inhibitory circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - A Quartarone
- Department of Biomedical Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Italy -
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Minutoli L, Micali A, Pisani A, Puzzolo D, Bitto A, Rinaldi M, Pizzino G, Irrera N, Galfo F, Arena S, Pallio G, Mecchio A, Germanà A, Bruschetta D, Laurà R, Magno C, Marini H, Squadrito F, Altavilla D. Flavocoxid Protects Against Cadmium-Induced Disruption of the Blood–Testis Barrier and Improves Testicular Damage and Germ Cell Impairment in Mice. Toxicol Sci 2015; 149:270. [DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfv247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Minutoli L, Micali A, Pisani A, Puzzolo D, Bitto A, Rinaldi M, Pizzino G, Irrera N, Galfo F, Arena S, Pallio G, Mecchio A, Germanà A, Bruschetta D, Laurà R, Magno C, Marini H, Squadrito F, Altavilla D. Flavocoxid Protects Against Cadmium-Induced Disruption of the Blood–Testis Barrier and Improves Testicular Damage and Germ Cell Impairment in Mice [corrected]. Toxicol Sci 2015; 148:311-29. [PMID: 26424772 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfv185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) causes male infertility. There is the need to identify safe treatments counteracting this toxicity. Flavocoxid is a flavonoid that induces a balanced inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 peroxidase moieties and of 5-lipoxygenase (LOX) and has efficacy in the male genitourinary system. We investigated flavocoxid effects on Cd-induced testicular toxicity in mice. Swiss mice were divided into 4 groups: 2 control groups received 0.9% NaCl (vehicle; 1 ml/kg/day) or flavocoxid (20 mg/kg/day ip); 2 groups were challenged with cadmium chloride (CdCl2; 2 mg/kg/day ip) and administered with vehicle or flavocoxid. The treatment lasted for 1 or 2 weeks. The testes were processed for biochemical and morphological studies. CdCl2 increased phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK) 1/2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, COX-2, 5-LOX, malondialdehyde (MDA), B-cell-lymphoma (Bcl)-2-associated X protein (Bax), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), transforming growth factor (TGF) -β3, decreased Bcl-2, testosterone, inhibin-B, occludin, N-Cadherin, induced structural damages in the testis and disrupted the blood-testis barrier. Many TUNEL-positive germ cells and changes in claudin-11, occludin, and N-cadherin localization were present. Flavocoxid administration reduced, in a time-dependent way, p-ERK 1/2, TNF-α, COX-2, 5-LOX, MDA, Bax, FSH, LH, TGF-β3, augmented Bcl-2, testosterone, inhibin B, occludin, N-Cadherin, and improved the structural organization of the testis and the blood-testis barrier. Few TUNEL-positive germ cells were present and a morphological retrieval of the intercellular junctions was observed. In conclusion, flavocoxid has a protective anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic function against Cd-induced toxicity in mice testis. We suggest that flavocoxid may play a relevant positive role against environmental levels of Cd, otherwise deleterious to gametogenesis and tubular integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonio Micali
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images
| | - Antonina Pisani
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images
| | - Domenico Puzzolo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Salvatore Arena
- Department of Paediatric, Gynaecological Microbiological and Biomedical Sciences
| | | | - Anna Mecchio
- *Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine
| | | | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images
| | - Rosaria Laurà
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and
| | - Carlo Magno
- Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Domenica Altavilla
- Department of Paediatric, Gynaecological Microbiological and Biomedical Sciences
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Messina S, Bitto A, Vita GL, Aguennouz M, Irrera N, Licata N, Sframeli M, Bruschetta D, Minutoli L, Altavilla D, Vita G, Squadrito F. Modulation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase and apoptosis by the isoflavone genistein in Mdx mice. Biofactors 2015; 41:324-9. [PMID: 26332024 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Dystrophin lack in DMD causes neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) membrane delocalization which in turn promotes functional muscle ischemia, and exacerbates muscle injury. Apoptosis and the exhaustion of muscle regenerative capacity are implicated in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) pathogenesis and therefore are relevant therapeutic targets. Genistein has been reported to have pro-proliferative effects, promoting G1/S cell phase transition through the induction of cyclin D1, and anti-apoptotic properties. We previously showed that genistein could reduce muscle necrosis and enhance regeneration with an augmented number of myogenin-positive satellite cells and myonuclei, ameliorating muscle function in mdx mice. In this study we evaluated the underlying mechanisms of genistein effect on muscle specimens of mdx and wild type mice treated for five weeks with genistein (2 mg/kg/i.p. daily) or vehicle. Western blot analysis show that genistein increased cyclin D1 and nNOS expression; and showed an antiapoptotic effect, modulating the expression of BAX and Bcl-2. Our results suggest that this isoflavone might enhance the regenerative spurt in mdx mice muscle restoring nNOS, promoting G1/S phase transition in muscle cell, and inhibiting apoptosis. Further studies with longer time treatment or using different experimental approaches are needed to better investigate the underlying mechanisms of such results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Messina
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Centro Clinico Nemo Sud, Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Vita
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Centro Clinico Nemo Sud, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Norma Licata
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Domenica Altavilla
- Department of Paediatric, Gynaecological, Microbiological and Biomedical Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vita
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Centro Clinico Nemo Sud, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Cutroneo G, Centofanti A, Speciale F, Rizzo G, Favaloro A, Santoro G, Bruschetta D, Milardi D, Micali A, Di Mauro D, Vermiglio G, Anastasi G, Trimarchi F. Sarcoglycan complex in masseter and sternocleidomastoid muscles of baboons: an immunohistochemical study. Eur J Histochem 2015; 59:2509. [PMID: 26150161 PMCID: PMC4503974 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2015.2509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The sarcoglycan complex consists of a group of single-pass transmembrane glycoproteins that are essential to maintain the integrity of muscle membranes. Any mutation in each sarcoglycan gene causes a series of recessive autosomal dystrophin-positive muscular dystrophies. Negative fibres for sarcoglycans have never been found in healthy humans and animals. In this study, we have investigated whether the social ranking has an influence on the expression of sarcoglycans in the skeletal muscles of healthy baboons. Biopsies of masseter and sternocleidomastoid muscles were processed for confocal immunohistochemical detection of sarcoglycans. Our findings showed that baboons from different social rankings exhibited different sarcoglycan expression profiles. While in dominant baboons almost all muscles were stained for sarcoglycans, only 55% of muscle fibres showed a significant staining. This different expression pattern is likely to be due to the living conditions of these primates. Sarcoglycans which play a key role in muscle activity by controlling contractile forces may influence the phenotype of muscle fibres, thus determining an adaptation to functional conditions. We hypothesize that this intraspecies variation reflects an epigenetic modification of the muscular protein network that allows baboons to adapt progressively to a different social status.
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Quartarone A, Rizzo V, Terranova C, Bruschetta D, Milardi D, Girlanda P, Ghilardi MF. Cortical plasticity in patients with Parkinson's disease a window for therapeutic non-invasive neuromodulation. Arch Ital Biol 2015; 152:239-46. [PMID: 25987183 DOI: 10.12871/00039829201444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Several evidences in animal models have consistently an alteration of cortico-striatal plasticity, which is related to the degeneration of the substantia nigra. An alteration of plasticity have also been reported in humans by recording evoked field potentials in the substantia nigra pars reticulata of PD patients undergoing subthalamic nucleus (STN) stimulation where high-frequency (HF) in the OFF state did not induce a lasting change in field potential amplitude in the substantia nigra. In addition protocols of non-invasive brain stimulation, such as paired associative stimulation (PAS) and theta-burst stimulation (TBS), can be used to investigate cortical plasticity of the human primary motor cortex. Despite data reported in literature are apparently controversial with some studies showing a reduced or increased or even normal LTP and LTD like plasticity, recent evidences suggest the hypothesis that these different pat- terns of cortical plasticity likely depend on the stage of the disease and on the concomitant administration of L-DOPA. The current review will provide an up-to-date of these issues on cortical plasticity in PD discussing the clinical implications in rehabilitation. In addition in the last section we will review the state of art of non invasive neuro- modulation as adjuvant treatment in the advanced stage of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Quartarone
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry and Anaesthesiology, University of Messina, Italy.
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Cuccia AM, Caradonna C, Bruschetta D, Vaccarino G, Milardi D. Imaging of temporomandibular joint: approach by direct volume rendering. J Clin Diagn Res 2015; 8:ZC105-9. [PMID: 25664280 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2014/9977.5195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to conduct a morphological analysis of the temporomandibular joint, a highly specialized synovial joint that permits movement and function of the mandible. MATERIALS AND METHODS We have studied the temporom-andibular joint anatomy, directly on the living, from 3D images obtained by medical imaging Computed Tomography and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance acquisition, and subsequent re-engineering techniques 3D Surface Rendering and Volume Rendering. Data were analysed with the goal of being able to isolate, identify and distinguish the anatomical structures of the joint, and get the largest possible number of information utilizing software for post-processing work. RESULTS It was possible to reproduce anatomy of the skeletal structures, as well as through acquisitions of Magnetic Resonance Imaging; it was also possible to visualize the vascular, muscular, ligamentous and tendinous components of the articular complex, and also the capsule and the fibrous cartilaginous disc. We managed the Surface Rendering and Volume Rendering, not only to obtain three-dimensional images for colour and for resolution comparable to the usual anatomical preparations, but also a considerable number of anatomical, minuter details, zooming, rotating and cutting the same images with linking, graduating the colour, transparency and opacity from time to time. CONCLUSION These results are encouraging to stimulate further studies in other anatomical districts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Marco Cuccia
- PHD Schalor, Department of Surgical and Oncological Disciplines, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy
| | - Carola Caradonna
- Professor, Department of Surgical and Oncological Disciplines, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Professor, Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Vaccarino
- Professor, Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Professor, Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Palermo , Messina, Italy
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Rosa MA, Gugliandolo P, Favaloro A, Vermiglio G, Centofanti A, Bruschetta D, Rizzo G. Morpho-structural alterations of sub-chondral bone tissue in patients with osteoarthritis: a scanning electron microscopy study. Ital J Anat Embryol 2015; 120:71-81. [PMID: 26738261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis focuses principally on the degeneration of articular cartilage as a primary cause of the disease. The pathophysiological process of osteoarthritis is characterized by alteration of chondrocytes and the increased bone formation by sub-chondral osteoblasts. Infiltration of macrophages and perivascular T and B lymphocytes is observed, and these infiltrates have been demonstrated in both early and advanced disease. The morphological and phenotypic characteristics of osteocytic cells attached to the normal and the osteoarthritic matrix differ from each other, suggesting that specific signalling pathways arise or are altered between matrix and cells. On this basis, we have examined biopsies of bone obtained by normal femur and by femur of subjects affected by osteoarthritis using techniques of scanning electron microscopy in order to identify the morphostructural alterations that occur in the sub-chondral bone. Our results have shown that the bone tissue of subjects not affected by any disease of bone presents a well-organized structure, while the bone tissue obtained by patients affected by osteoarthritis shows a derangement of tissue itself possibly correlated with altered function of the osteoblasts, that during the pathological process produce a less mineralized extracellular matrix with consequent loss of the normal bone structure. In our opinion, during the osteoarthritic process there would be a defective signalling between bone cells leading to the production of an irregular, amorphous extracellular matrix by osteoblasts, characteristic of the pathological condition.
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Cutroneo G, Bramanti P, Anastasi G, Bruschetta D, Favaloro A, Vermiglio G, Trimarchl F, Di Mauro D, Rizzo G. Sarcoglycans and gaba(a) receptors in rat central nervous system: an immunohistochemical study. Ital J Anat Embryol 2015; 120:105-116. [PMID: 27086441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Sarcoglycan subcomplex is a transmembrane glycoprotein system which connects extracellular matrix to cytoskeleton. Although this complex has been found in several non-muscular tissues, no data exist about a sarcoglycan subcomplex in brain. Only the presence of ε-sarcoglycan in brain has been described in detail because its mutation determines Myoclonus Dystonia Syndrome. Also ζ-, β- and δ-sarcoglycans have been found in brain but only at mRNA level and their distribution in brain is still unknown. Here, we have searched for the expression of all sarcoglycans in specific brain regions of rat as hippocampus, cerebral and cerebellar cortex. Since a correlation between dystrophin glycoprotein complex and γ-amino butyric acid A (GABA(A)) receptor was demonstrated, we have investigated also a possible colocalization between sarcoglycans and GABA(A) receptor. Results have shown that all sarcoglycans are expressed in neurons of all observed regions; these proteins show a spot-like pattern of fluorescence and are mainly localized at soma level. Moreover, each sarcoglycan colocalizes with GABA(A) receptor. The present study shows, for the first time, the expression of all sarcoglycans in brain; moreover, the prevalent localization of sarcoglycans at post-synaptic level and the colocalization of these glycoproteins with GABA(A) receptor suggests that sarcoglycans play a key role in central nervous system, regulating post-synaptic receptors assembly.
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Arrigo A, Mormina E, Anastasi GP, Gaeta M, Calamuneri A, Quartarone A, De Salvo S, Bruschetta D, Rizzo G, Trimarchi F, Milardi D. Constrained spherical deconvolution analysis of the limbic network in human, with emphasis on a direct cerebello-limbic pathway. Front Hum Neurosci 2014; 8:987. [PMID: 25538606 PMCID: PMC4259125 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2014.00987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The limbic system is part of an intricate network which is involved in several functions like memory and emotion. Traditionally the role of the cerebellum was considered mainly associated to motion control; however several evidences are raising about a role of the cerebellum in learning skills, emotions control, mnemonic and behavioral processes involving also connections with limbic system. In 15 normal subjects we studied limbic connections by probabilistic Constrained Spherical Deconvolution (CSD) tractography. The main result of our work was to prove for the first time in human brain the existence of a direct cerebello-limbic pathway which was previously hypothesized but never demonstrated. We also extended our analysis to the other limbic connections including cingulate fasciculus, inferior longitudinal fasciculus, uncinated fasciculus, anterior thalamic connections and fornix. Although these pathways have been already described in the tractographic literature we provided reconstruction, quantitative analysis and Fractional Anisotropy (FA) right-left symmetry comparison using probabilistic CSD tractography that is known to provide a potential improvement compared to previously used Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) techniques. The demonstration of the existence of cerebello-limbic pathway could constitute an important step in the knowledge of the anatomic substrate of non-motor cerebellar functions. Finally the CSD statistical data about limbic connections in healthy subjects could be potentially useful in the diagnosis of pathological disorders damaging this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Enricomaria Mormina
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pio Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Michele Gaeta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Rizzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Fabio Trimarchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina Messina, Italy ; IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo Messina, Italy
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Quartarone A, Rizzo V, Terranova C, Milardi D, Bruschetta D, Ghilardi MF, Girlanda P. Sensory abnormalities in focal hand dystonia and non-invasive brain stimulation. Front Hum Neurosci 2014; 8:956. [PMID: 25538594 PMCID: PMC4257013 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2014.00956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been proposed that synchronous and convergent afferent input arising from repetitive motor tasks may play an important role in driving the maladaptive cortical plasticity seen in focal hand dystonia (FHD). This hypothesis receives support from several sources. First, it has been reported that in subjects with FHD, paired associative stimulation produces an abnormal increase in corticospinal excitability, which was not confined to stimulated muscles. These findings provide support for the role of excessive plasticity in FHD. Second, the genetic contribution to the dystonias is increasingly recognized indicating that repetitive, stereotyped afferent inputs may lead to late-onset dystonia, such as FHD, more rapidly in genetically susceptible individuals. It can be postulated, according to the two factor hypothesis that dystonia is triggered and maintained by the concurrence of environmental factors such as repetitive training and subtle abnormal mechanisms of plasticity within somatosensory loop. In the present review, we examine the contribution of sensory-motor integration in the pathophysiology of primary dystonia. In addition, we will discuss the role of non-invasive brain stimulation as therapeutic approach in FHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Quartarone
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry and Anaesthesiological Sciences, University of Messina , Messina , Italy ; Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, City University of New York (CUNY) Medical School , New York, NY , USA
| | - Vincenzo Rizzo
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry and Anaesthesiological Sciences, University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Carmen Terranova
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry and Anaesthesiological Sciences, University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Demetrio Milardi
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo , Messina , Italy ; Department of Biomedical Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Daniele Bruschetta
- Department of Biomedical Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Maria Felice Ghilardi
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, City University of New York (CUNY) Medical School , New York, NY , USA
| | - Paolo Girlanda
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychiatry and Anaesthesiological Sciences, University of Messina , Messina , Italy
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D'Angelo R, Scimone C, Esposito T, Bruschetta D, Rinaldi C, Ruggeri A, Sidoti A. Fish odor syndrome (trimethylaminuria) supporting the possible FMO3 down expression in childhood: a case report. J Med Case Rep 2014; 8:328. [PMID: 25288227 PMCID: PMC4190592 DOI: 10.1186/1752-1947-8-328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Trimethylaminuria is a rare inherited disorder due to decreased metabolism of dietary-derived trimethylamine by flavin-containing monooxygenase 3. Several single nucleotide polymorphisms of the flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 gene have been described and result in an enzyme with decreased or abolished functional activity for trimethylamine N-oxygenation thus leading to trimethylaminuria. CASE PRESENTATION Here we investigated an Italian family in which the proband was a 7-year-old girl with suspected trimethylaminuria, by flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 gene direct sequencing and urinary determination of trimethylamine and trimethylamine N-oxide. Genetic analysis found that, as with her parents and one of her two brothers, the proband carried three polymorphisms: c.472 G>A p. E158K (rs 2266782) in exon 4, c.627+10 C>G (IVS5+10G>C) (rs 2066534) and c.485-21 G>A (IVS4-22G>A) (rs 1920149) in intronic regions. CONCLUSIONS Despite the same genotypic condition only the girl had symptoms attributable to the trimethylaminuria. The suspicion is that she has transient childhood trimethylaminuria. Therefore, we bring attention to the importance of genetic testing and eventual determination of urinary trimethylamine and trimethylamine N-oxide as instruments to offer to clinicians in the management of these pediatric patients.
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Anastasi G, Cutroneo G, Bruschetta D, Trimarchi F, Ielitro G, Cammaroto S, Duca A, Bramanti P, Favaloro A, Vaccarino G, Milardi D. Three-dimensional volume rendering of the ankle based on magnetic resonance images enables the generation of images comparable to real anatomy. J Anat 2009; 215:592-9. [PMID: 19678857 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2009.01133.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
We have applied high-quality medical imaging techniques to study the structure of the human ankle. Direct volume rendering, using specific algorithms, transforms conventional two-dimensional (2D) magnetic resonance image (MRI) series into 3D volume datasets. This tool allows high-definition visualization of single or multiple structures for diagnostic, research, and teaching purposes. No other image reformatting technique so accurately highlights each anatomic relationship and preserves soft tissue definition. Here, we used this method to study the structure of the human ankle to analyze tendon-bone-muscle relationships. We compared ankle MRI and computerized tomography (CT) images from 17 healthy volunteers, aged 18-30 years (mean 23 years). An additional subject had a partial rupture of the Achilles tendon. The MRI images demonstrated superiority in overall quality of detail compared to the CT images. The MRI series accurately rendered soft tissue and bone in simultaneous image acquisition, whereas CT required several window-reformatting algorithms, with loss of image data quality. We obtained high-quality digital images of the human ankle that were sufficiently accurate for surgical and clinical intervention planning, as well as for teaching human anatomy. Our approach demonstrates that complex anatomical structures such as the ankle, which is rich in articular facets and ligaments, can be easily studied non-invasively using MRI data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, School of Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Anastasi G, Bramanti P, Di Bella P, Favaloro A, Trimarchi F, Magaudda L, Gaeta M, Scribano E, Bruschetta D, Milardi D. Volume rendering based on magnetic resonance imaging: advances in understanding the three-dimensional anatomy of the human knee. J Anat 2007; 211:399-406. [PMID: 17645453 PMCID: PMC2375819 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2007.00770.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The choice of medical imaging techniques, for the purpose of the present work aimed at studying the anatomy of the knee, derives from the increasing use of images in diagnostics, research and teaching, and the subsequent importance that these methods are gaining within the scientific community. Medical systems using virtual reality techniques also offer a good alternative to traditional methods, and are considered among the most important tools in the areas of research and teaching. In our work we have shown some possible uses of three-dimensional imaging for the study of the morphology of the normal human knee, and its clinical applications. We used the direct volume rendering technique, and created a data set of images and animations to allow us to visualize the single structures of the human knee in three dimensions. Direct volume rendering makes use of specific algorithms to transform conventional two-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging sets of slices into see-through volume data set images. It is a technique which does not require the construction of intermediate geometric representations, and has the advantage of allowing the visualization of a single image of the full data set, using semi-transparent mapping. Digital images of human structures, and in particular of the knee, offer important information about anatomical structures and their relationships, and are of great value in the planning of surgical procedures. On this basis we studied seven volunteers with an average age of 25 years, who underwent magnetic resonance imaging. After elaboration of the data through post-processing, we analysed the structure of the knee in detail. The aim of our investigation was the three-dimensional image, in order to comprehend better the interactions between anatomical structures. We believe that these results, applied to living subjects, widen the frontiers in the areas of teaching, diagnostics, therapy and scientific research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, School of Medicine, University of Messina, Italy.
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Anastasi G, Cutroneo G, Sidoti A, Rinaldi C, Bruschetta D, Rizzo G, D'Angelo R, Tarone G, Amato A, Favaloro A. Sarcoglycan subcomplex expression in normal human smooth muscle. J Histochem Cytochem 2007; 55:831-43. [PMID: 17438352 DOI: 10.1369/jhc.6a7145.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The sarcoglycan complex (SGC) is a multimember transmembrane complex interacting with other members of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex (DGC) to provide a mechanosignaling connection from the cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix. The SGC consists of four proteins (alpha, beta, gamma, and delta). A fifth sarcoglycan subunit, epsilon-sarcoglycan, shows a wider tissue distribution. Recently, a novel sarcoglycan, the zeta-sarcoglycan, has been identified. All reports about the structure of SGC showed a common assumption of a tetrameric arrangement of sarcoglycans. Addressing this issue, our immunofluorescence and molecular results showed, for the first time, that all sarcoglycans are always detectable in all observed samples. Therefore, one intriguing possibility is the existence of a pentameric or hexameric complex considering zeta-sarcoglycan of SGC, which could present a higher or lower expression of a single sarcoglycan in conformity with muscle type--skeletal, cardiac, or smooth--or also in conformity with the origin of smooth muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Anastasi
- Department of Biomorphology and Biotechnologies, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1 IT-98125, Messina, Italy
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