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Semprucci F, Catani L, Grassi E, Jakubcsiková M, Čerevková A. Simple, inexpensive, and rapid approach to detect changes in the structure of soil free-living nematodes. Helminthologia 2024; 61:85-98. [PMID: 38659464 PMCID: PMC11038259 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2024-0001] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
A general limitation of ecological investigations based on nematodes is related to the difficult and time-consuming taxonomic identification of species. Therefore, nematologists are investing many efforts to develop alternative approaches as proxies applicable in biomonitoring assessment. Recently, an alternative method that combines morpho-functional traits was proposed for detecting assemblage changes of marine nematodes. In view of the promising results, it was tested the same approach to document taxonomic structure changes of soil free-living and plant parasitic nematodes. Specifically, this attempt was carried out using three data sets that include studies from various European regions and different types of ecosystems: forests, grasslands and maize crops. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that the simple combination of the four traits (i.e., buccal cavity cuticularization occurrence, amphideal fovea size and shape, morphology of the cuticle and pharynx) in a single code number perfectly mirrors the taxonomic structure trends of the nematode assemblage at genus level. Therefore, we predict that similar results can be also obtained by directly encoding nematode specimens with the selected traits and we point to new important advances if this procedure can be coupled with advanced machine learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Semprucci
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences (DiSB), University of Urbino, 61029Urbino, Italy
| | - L. Catani
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences (DiSB), University of Urbino, 61029Urbino, Italy
| | - E. Grassi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences (DiSB), University of Urbino, 61029Urbino, Italy
| | - M. Jakubcsiková
- Institute of Parasitology SAS, Hlinkova 3, 040 01Košice, Slovakia
| | - A. Čerevková
- Institute of Parasitology SAS, Hlinkova 3, 040 01Košice, Slovakia
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Grassi E, Zingaretti C, Petracci E, Corbelli J, Papiani G, Banchelli I, Valli I, Frassineti GL, Passardi A, Di Bartolomeo M, Pietrantonio F, Gelsomino F, Carandina I, Banzi M, Martella L, Bonetti AV, Boccaccino A, Molinari C, Marisi G, Ugolini G, Nanni O, Tamberi S. Phase II study of capecitabine-based concomitant chemoradiation followed by durvalumab as a neoadjuvant strategy in locally advanced rectal cancer: the PANDORA trial. ESMO Open 2023; 8:101824. [PMID: 37774508 PMCID: PMC10594026 DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2023.101824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the efficacy of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) followed by durvalumab as neoadjuvant therapy of locally advanced rectal cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS The PANDORA trial is a prospective, phase II, open-label, single-arm, multicenter study aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of preoperative treatment with durvalumab (1500 mg every 4 weeks for three administrations) following long-course radiotherapy (RT) plus concomitant capecitabine (5040 cGy RT in 25-28 fractions over 5 weeks and capecitabine administered at 825 mg/m2 twice daily). The primary endpoint was the pathological complete response (pCR) rate; secondary endpoints were the proportion of clinical complete remissions and safety. The sample size was estimated assuming a null pCR proportion of 0.15 and an alternative pCR proportion of 0.30 (α = 0.05, power = 0.80). The proposed treatment could be considered promising if ≥13 pCRs were observed in 55 patients (EudraCT: 2018-004758-39; NCT04083365). RESULTS Between November 2019 and August 2021, 60 patients were accrued, of which 55 were assessable for the study's objectives. Two patients experienced disease progression during treatment. Nineteen out of 55 eligible patients achieved a pCR (34.5%, 95% confidence interval 22.2% to 48.6%). Regarding toxicity related to durvalumab, grade 3 adverse events (AEs) occurred in four patients (7.3%) (diarrhea, skin toxicity, transaminase increase, lipase increase, and pancolitis). Grade 4 toxicity was not observed. In 20 patients (36.4%), grade 1-2 AEs related to durvalumab were observed. The most common were endocrine toxicity (hyper/hypothyroidism), dermatologic toxicity (skin rash), and gastrointestinal toxicity (transaminase increase, nausea, diarrhea, constipation). CONCLUSION This study met its primary endpoint showing that CRT followed by durvalumab could increase pCR with a safe toxicity profile. This combination is a promising, feasible strategy worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Grassi
- Medical Oncology Unit, "Degli Infermi" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Faenza
| | - C Zingaretti
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - E Petracci
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - J Corbelli
- Medical Oncology Unit, "Degli Infermi" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Faenza
| | - G Papiani
- Medical Oncology Unit, "Santa Maria delle Croci" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Ravenna
| | - I Banchelli
- Pathology Unit, "Santa Maria delle Croci" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Ravenna
| | - I Valli
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - G L Frassineti
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - A Passardi
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - M Di Bartolomeo
- Gastroenterological Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan
| | - F Pietrantonio
- Gastroenterological Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan
| | - F Gelsomino
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Division of Oncology, University Hospital of Modena, Modena
| | - I Carandina
- Department of Medical Oncology, "Sant'Anna" University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara
| | - M Banzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, "Santa Maria Nuova" Hospital, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia
| | - L Martella
- Department of Medical Oncology, "Sant'Anna" University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara
| | - A V Bonetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, "Mater Salutis" Hospital, Legnago
| | - A Boccaccino
- Medical Oncology Unit, "Santa Maria delle Croci" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Ravenna
| | - C Molinari
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - G Marisi
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - G Ugolini
- General Surgery Unit, "Santa Maria delle Croci" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Ravenna, Italy
| | - O Nanni
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Trials, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola
| | - S Tamberi
- Medical Oncology Unit, "Degli Infermi" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Faenza; Medical Oncology Unit, "Santa Maria delle Croci" Hospital, AUSL della Romagna, Ravenna.
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Filippini DM, Grassi E, Palloni A, Carloni R, Casadei R, Ricci C, Serra C, Ercolani G, Brandi G, Di Marco M. Searching for novel multimodal treatments in oligometastatic pancreatic cancer. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:271. [PMID: 32228504 PMCID: PMC7106565 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-06718-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastatic pancreatic cancer has a median overall survival of less than 12 months, even if treated with chemotherapy. Selected patients with oligometastatic disease could benefit from multimodal treatments connecting chemotherapy and surgical treatment or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of metastases. CASE PRESENTATION We present a patient with oligometastatic pancreatic cancer recurrence who was successfully treated with a multimodal therapeutic approach. A 57-year-old male initially presenting with resectable pancreatic cancer underwent pancreatoduodenectomy. The histopathological diagnosis revealed ductal pancreatic adenocarcinoma with positive surgical resection margins and negative lymph nodes. He completed six cycles of adjuvant therapy with gemcitabine (1000 mg/mq 1,8,15q 28), followed by external radiotherapy (54 Gy in 25 fractions) associated with gemcitabine 50 mg/mq twice weekly. Three years later, the patient developed multiple liver metastases, and he started FOLFIRINOX (oxaliplatin 85 mg/mq, irinotecan 180 mg/mq, leucovorin 400 mg/mq and fluorouracil 400 mg/mq given as a bolus followed by 2400 mg/mq as a 46 h continuous infusion,1q 14) as a first-line treatment. The CT scan showed a partial response after 6 cycles. After multidisciplinary discussion, the patient underwent a laparotomic metastasectomy of the three hepatic lesions. After additional postsurgical chemotherapy with 4 cycles of the FOLFIRINOX schedule, the patient remained free of recurrence for 12 months. A CT scan showed a new single liver metastasis, which was treated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). A second radiofrequency ablation was performed when the patient developed another single liver lesion 12 months after the first RFA; currently, the patient is free from recurrence with an overall survival of 6 years from the diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Our case has benefited from successful multimodal treatment, including surgical and local ablative techniques and systemic chemotherapy. A multimodal approach may be warranted in selected patients with oligometastatic pancreatic cancer and could improve overall survival. Further research is needed to investigate this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Filippini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Massarenti Street 11, 40100, Bologna, Italy
| | - E Grassi
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Massarenti Street 11, 40100, Bologna, Italy.
| | - A Palloni
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Massarenti Street 11, 40100, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Carloni
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Massarenti Street 11, 40100, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Casadei
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Ricci
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Serra
- Department of Organ Failure and Transplantation, Ultrasound Unit, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - G Ercolani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy.,General and Oncologic Surgery, Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, AUSL Romagna, Forlì, Italy
| | - G Brandi
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Massarenti Street 11, 40100, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Di Marco
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine University of Bologna, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Massarenti Street 11, 40100, Bologna, Italy
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Barbera M, Corbelli J, Papiani G, Grassi E, Ugolini G, Montroni I, Bartolomeo MD, Cascinu S, Marzola M, Bonetti A, Frassineti G, Nanni O, Zattoni D, Ghignone F, Taffurelli G, Pinto C, Moretti CC, Rossi G, Palazzi S, Tamberi S. A phase II study of capecitabine plus concomitant radiation therapy followed by durvalumab (MEDI4736) as preoperative treatment in rectal cancer: PANDORA study. Ann Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdz246.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Finocchiaro D, Ferri V, Grassi E, Fioroni F, Guidi G, Sergi F, Castellani G, Versari A, Iori M. 142. DoseFX: A software for dosimetry of organs and lesions in molecular radiotherapy. Phys Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2018.04.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Cagnazzo C, Arizio F, Piccinni Leopardi M, Di Costanzo A, Crotto L, Matocci R, Lucarelli A, Grassi E, Saracino V, Fugazza C, Cinefra M, Marchetti F, Taverniti C, Stabile S, Monti M, Marchesi E. Clinical trials and risk-based approach: reality or Utopia? Ann Oncol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdx436.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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7
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Raimo M, Orso F, Grassi E, Cimino D, Penna E, De Pitta C, Stadler MB, Primo L, Calautti E, Quaglino P, Provero P, Taverna D. miR-146a Exerts Differential Effects on Melanoma Growth and Metastatization. Mol Cancer Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-15-0425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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8
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Patterson N, Spezi E, Grassi E, Ferri V, Fioroni F, Iori M. PO-0894: Patient specific 3D dose calculation for 177Lu treatment of neuroendocrine tumours using the Raydose MC code. Radiother Oncol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(15)40886-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Grassi E, Fioroni F, Ferri V, Mezzenga E, Sarti MA, Paulus T, Lanconelli N, Filice A, Versari A, Iori M. Quantitative comparison between the commercial software STRATOS(®) by Philips and a homemade software for voxel-dosimetry in radiopeptide therapy. Phys Med 2014; 31:72-9. [PMID: 25457430 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2014.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 12/10/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeted radionuclide therapy is a rapidly growing modality. A few commercial treatment planning systems are entering the market. However, some in-house systems are currently developed for a more flexible and customized dosimetry calculation at voxel-level. For this purpose, we developed a novel software, VoxelMed, and performed a comparison with the software STRATOS. METHODS The validation of both of them was undertaken using radioactive phantoms with different volume inserts. A cohort of 10 patients was also studied after a therapeutic administration of (177)Lu-labelled radiopeptides. The activity, number of disintegrations, absorbed dose and dose-volume histogram (DVH) were calculated for the phantoms and the kidneys in patients, which were the main critical organs at risk in this study. RESULTS In phantoms the absorbed doses computed with VoxelMed and STRATOS agree within 5%. In patients at the voxel-level the absorbed dose to kidneys (VoxelMed: mean 0.66 Gy/GBq) showed a limited difference of 5%, but with a remarkable range (-40%, +60%) between the two software packages. Voxel-dosimetry allows to estimate the dose non-homogeneities in volumes, which may be evaluated through DVHs. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that a fully 3D voxel-dosimetry with multiple SPECT images is feasible by using home-made or commercial software package and absorbed dose results obtained are similar. The main difference between the studied tools was observed in the activity integration method (effective vs physical half-time to time activity curve tail). We believe that an effective half-time integration method produces a more accurate approximation of clinical uptake and resultant dosimetry.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Grassi
- Medical Physics Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy.
| | - F Fioroni
- Medical Physics Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - V Ferri
- Medical Physics Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - E Mezzenga
- Medical Physics Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - M A Sarti
- Medical Physics Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - T Paulus
- Philips Technologie GmbH Innovative Technologies, Pauwelsstr. 17, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - N Lanconelli
- Dept. of Physics, University of Bologna, I-40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - A Filice
- Nuclear Medicine Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - A Versari
- Nuclear Medicine Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - M Iori
- Medical Physics Dept., IRCCS - S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Viale Risorgimento 80, I-42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
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Fioroni F, Iotti C, Paiusco M, Versari A, Grassi E, Salvo D, Iori M. PET/CT and radiotherapy : data transfer, radiotherapy workflow and quality assurance. Q J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2010; 54:476-489. [PMID: 20927015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The development of new technologies in radiation therapy has made it possible to introduce more sophisticated techniques that can deliver the prescribed dose with more conformation and accuracy and to apply dose escalation protocols without increasing the risk of healthy tissue damage. This has consented the simultaneous delivery of different dose levels to different parts of the target, making it possible to boost those tumour sub-volumes that are considered more radio resistant. The use of PET for radiotherapy planning purposes has become increasingly important in the last few years, because of its ability to provide valuable biologic and functional data. PET imaging can affect the treatment strategy definition and improve the target delineation and the assessment of therapy response. The most attractive aspect is the perspective to deliver differential doses inside target volumes for areas of different biologic behaviour based on functional imaging, moving closer to the goals of biologically conformal radiation therapy. Each single step of PET/CT-guided radiotherapy workflow, needs to be performed following high standard procedures, within a rigorous and appropriate quality assurance protocol to minimize the sources of errors and to maximize the efficacy of PET imaging in radiation therapy, ensuring safe and effective use of the technology. The present paper focuses on aspects concerning the use of PET/CT in radiation treatment process, with the aim to delineate different possible approaches to its clinical application and to highlight the critical aspects of the various subprocesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Fioroni
- Department of Medical Physics, S. Maria Nuova Hospital, Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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11
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Asti M, Grassi E, Sghedoni R, De Pietri G, Fioroni F, Versari A, Borasi G, Salvo D. Purification by ozonolysis of 18O enriched water after cyclotron irradiation and the utilization of the purified water for the production of [18F]-FDG (2-deoxy-2-[18F]-fluoro-d-glucose). Appl Radiat Isot 2007; 65:831-5. [PMID: 17459713 DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2007.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2006] [Revised: 03/06/2007] [Accepted: 03/08/2007] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The high cost of virgin (18)O-enriched water has forced many researchers to study methods to purify and recycle enriched water after the first irradiation for the production of radiopharmaceuticals. In our study, [(18)O]H(2)O was purified by ozonolysis and distillation. Analyses showed a large decrease in impurities after this treatment. The purification procedure was carried out after the production of 94 batches of [18F]-FDG, which were manufactured using a GE Minitrace cyclotron and a GE Mx TracerLab synthesizer. Saturation yields after bombardment, using virgin and re-purified water were, respectively, 2864+/-204MBq/muA and 2727+/-167MBq/muA, a decrease of 5.5%. The decrease in [18F]-FDG yield, from 67.2+/-0.7% to 65.5+/-0.9%, can be ascribed to the irradiation step only.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Asti
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Santa Maria Nuova Hospital via Risorgimento 80, 42100 Reggio Emilia, Italy
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12
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Posteraro L, Formis A, Grassi E, Bighi M, Nati P, Proietti Bocchini C, Todeschini E, Bidini C, Corsini D, Agosti M, Franceschini M. Quality of life and aphasia. Multicentric standardization of a questionnaire. Eura Medicophys 2006; 42:227-30. [PMID: 17039220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
AIM It is important to assess aphasics' quality of life in order to plan a rehabilitation treatment. To date such a tool is still missing for Italian patients. This paper reports normative data of the Italian version of SAQOL-39, a British questionnaire aimed to assess aphasics' quality of life. It consists of 39 items, divided into 4 subdomains (Physical, Communication, Psychosocial and Energy). METHODS Forty-two patients coming from 3 different Speech Therapy Services were enrolled. All patients completed speech therapy before examination. They were submitted to the Italian SAQOL-39 and 2 screening tests for aphasia: 1) Communication Assessment Scale according Goodglass and Kaplan; 2) Franchay Aphasia Screening Test (FAST). A receptive FAST score of 7 out of 15 was used as a cut-off score for SAQOL-39 administration. RESULTS The Italian SAQOL-39 showed good internal consistency (full scale Cronbach's alpha 0.939). Cronbach's alpha for every subdomains ranged from 0.950 (Communication) to 0.720 (Energy). Fluent aphasics gave significantly higher scores than nonfluent ones on full scale, and all out of Energy subdomains. Furthermore gravity of aphasia correlated with both full scale and Communication subdomain scores. CONCLUSIONS In authors' opinion, the Italian SAQOL-39 shares many psychometric features with the English one. This questionnaire seems to be suitable for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Posteraro
- Neuromotor Rehabilitation Unit, PRM Bozzolo, Mantova Hospitals, Via 25 Aprile 71, 46012 Bozzolo, Mantova, Italy.
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13
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Posteraro L, Formis A, Bidini C, Grassi E, Curti M, Bighi M, Agosti M, Franceschini M. Aphasia quality of life: reliability of the Italian version of SAQOL-39. Eura Medicophys 2004; 40:257-62. [PMID: 16175147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
AIM In recent times there has been an increasing interest in assessing the quality of life (QOL) in stroke clinical trials. To our knowledge, an Italian tool suitable for this purpose is still missing. So we adapted to Italian language the Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale-39 (SAQOL-39), that is a British questionnaire recently validated with aphasic subjects. The aim of this paper is to validate our version of SAQOL-39. METHODS To determine the matching of our version, we requested a native English speaker to translate the Italian version into English. Twelve patients (7 male, 5 female; mean age 66.4 years) were submitted to our test. All subjects were interviewed twice by 2 raters, at 24 h of distance. Neither examinator knew results of the other interview. Statistical analysis was performed by determining Cronbach's a and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS Comparing the original SAQOL-39 to the English translation of our Italian version, we found only a low percentage (10%) of minimal semantic variations. As for test-retest reliability, ICC for global score was 0.898 (ICC(2,39)). ICC range for SAQOL-39 subdomains was 0.816 to 0.969. Cronbach's a for full scale scores was 0.916 (subdomains ranged 0.767 to 0.976). Results seem good as for usefulness, reliability and acceptability of the Italian version of SAQOL-39, like the original version of this test. CONCLUSIONS Our Italian version of SAQOL-39 seems suitable for clinical use. A multicentric study aiming to compare our data to original English ones is in progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Posteraro
- Neuromotor Rehabilitation Unit, P.R.M. of Bozzolo Mantova Hospital, Bozzolo (MN), Italy.
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Mengoni A, Grassi E, Barzanti R, Biondi EG, Gonnelli C, Kim CK, Bazzicalupo M. Genetic diversity of bacterial communities of serpentine soil and of rhizosphere of the nickel-hyperaccumulator plant Alyssum bertolonii. Microb Ecol 2004. [PMID: 15546041 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-003-0149-1d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Serpentine soils are characterized by high levels of heavy metals (Ni, Co, Cr), and low levels of important plant nutrients (P, Ca, N). Because of these inhospitable edaphic conditions, serpentine soils are typically home to a very specialized flora including endemic species as the nickel hyperaccumulator Alyssum bertolonii. Although much is known about the serpentine flora, few researches have investigated the bacterial communities of serpentine areas. In the present study bacterial communities were sampled at various distances from A. bertolonii roots in three different serpentine areas and their genetic diversity was assessed by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis. The obtained results indicated the occurrence of a high genetic diversity and heterogeneity of the bacterial communities present in the different serpentine areas. Moreover, TRFs (terminal restriction fragments) common to all the investigated A. bertolonii rhizosphere samples were found. A new cloning strategy was applied to 27 TRFs that were sequenced and taxonomically interpreted as mainly belonging to Gram-positive and alpha-Proteobacteria representatives. In particular, cloned TRFs which discriminated between rhizosphere and soil samples were mainly interpreted as belonging to Proteobacteria representatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mengoni
- Dipartimento di Biologia Animale e Genetica, Università di Firenze, via Romana 17, I-50125, Firenze, Italy
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Mengoni A, Grassi E, Barzanti R, Biondi EG, Gonnelli C, Kim CK, Bazzicalupo M. Genetic diversity of bacterial communities of serpentine soil and of rhizosphere of the nickel-hyperaccumulator plant Alyssum bertolonii. Microb Ecol 2004; 48:209-217. [PMID: 15546041 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-003-0149-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2003] [Accepted: 12/18/2003] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Serpentine soils are characterized by high levels of heavy metals (Ni, Co, Cr), and low levels of important plant nutrients (P, Ca, N). Because of these inhospitable edaphic conditions, serpentine soils are typically home to a very specialized flora including endemic species as the nickel hyperaccumulator Alyssum bertolonii. Although much is known about the serpentine flora, few researches have investigated the bacterial communities of serpentine areas. In the present study bacterial communities were sampled at various distances from A. bertolonii roots in three different serpentine areas and their genetic diversity was assessed by terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis. The obtained results indicated the occurrence of a high genetic diversity and heterogeneity of the bacterial communities present in the different serpentine areas. Moreover, TRFs (terminal restriction fragments) common to all the investigated A. bertolonii rhizosphere samples were found. A new cloning strategy was applied to 27 TRFs that were sequenced and taxonomically interpreted as mainly belonging to Gram-positive and alpha-Proteobacteria representatives. In particular, cloned TRFs which discriminated between rhizosphere and soil samples were mainly interpreted as belonging to Proteobacteria representatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mengoni
- Dipartimento di Biologia Animale e Genetica, Università di Firenze, via Romana 17, I-50125, Firenze, Italy
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16
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Restuccia D, Valeriani M, Grassi E, Gentili G, Mazza S, Tonali P, Mauguière F. Contribution of GABAergic cortical circuitry in shaping somatosensory evoked scalp responses: specific changes after single-dose administration of tiagabine. Clin Neurophysiol 2002; 113:656-71. [PMID: 11976045 DOI: 10.1016/s1388-2457(02)00034-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether conventional as well as high-frequency somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) to upper limb stimulation are influenced by GABAergic intracortical circuitry. METHODS We recorded SEPs from 6 healthy volunteers before and after a single-oral administration of tiagabine. Conventional low-frequency SEPs have been obtained after stimulation of the median nerve, as well as after stimulation of the first phalanx of the thumb, which selectively involves cutaneous finger inputs. Median nerve SEPs have been further analyzed after digital narrow-bandpass filtering, to selectively examine high-frequency responses. Lastly, in order to explain scalp SEP distribution before and after tiagabine administration, we performed the brain electrical source analysis (BESA) of raw data. RESULTS After tiagabine administration, conventional scalp SEPs showed a significant amplitude increase of parietal P24, frontal N24 and central P22 components. Similarly, BESA showed a significant strength increase of the second peak of activation of the first two perirolandic dipoles, which are likely to correspond to the N24/P24 and P22 generators. By contrast, no significant changes of high-frequency SEPs were induced by drug intake. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the view that both N24/P24 and P22 SEP components are probably generated by deep spiny cell hyperpolarization, which is strongly increased by inhibitory inputs from GABAergic interneurons. By considering the clear influence of inhibitory circuitry in shaping these SEP components, conventional scalp SEP recording could be useful in the functional assessment of the somatosensory cortex in different physiological and pathological conditions. By contrast, intrinsic firing properties of the cell population generating high-frequency SEP responses are unaffected by the increase of recurrent GABAergic inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Restuccia
- Department of Neurology, Catholic University, Policlinico A. Gemelli, L.go A. 00168 Rome, Italy.
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17
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Abstract
The problem of finding correspondence between a particular neuronal organization and a specific function of the human brain remains a central question of neuroscience. It is sometimes thought that language and music are two sides of the same intellectual coin, but research on brain-damaged patients has shown that the loss of verbal functions (aphasia) is not necessarily accompanied by a loss of musical abilities (amusia). Amusia without aphasia has also been described. This double dissociation indicates functional autonomy in these mental processes. Yet verbal and musical impairments often occur together. The global picture that emerges from studies of music and its neural substrate is by no means clear and much depends on which subjects and which aspect of musical abilities are investigated. An illustration of these concepts is provided by the case of the French composer Maurice Ravel, who suffered from a progressive cerebral disease of uncertain aetiology, with prominent involvement of the left hemisphere. As a result, Ravel experienced aphasia and apraxia and became unable to compose. The available facts favour a clinical diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia (PPA), with the possibility of an overlap with corticobasal degeneration (CBD). In view of Ravel's clinical history, we propose that two of his final compositions, the Bolero and the Concerto for the Left Hand, include certain patterns characteristic of right-hemisphere musical abilities and may show the influence of disease on the creative process.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Amaducci
- Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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18
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Abstract
Previous studies performed by positron emission tomography and Transcranial Doppler (TCD) found a different cerebral activation during musical stimuli in musicians compared to non-musicians. The aim of our study is to evaluate by means of TCD, possible different pattern of cerebral activation during the performance of different musical tasks in musicians, non-musicians and lyrical singers. Our findings show a left hemispheric activation in musicians and a right one in non-musicians. Preliminary data on lyrical singers' activation patterns need further confirmation with a larger population. These data could be related to a different approach to music listening in musicians (analytical) and non-musicians who are supposed to have an emotional approach to music.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Marinoni
- Neurosonology Laboratory, Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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19
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Gestri D, Cecchi C, Tedde A, Latorraca S, Orlacchio A, Grassi E, Massaro AM, Liguri G, St George-Hyslop PH, Sorbi S. Lack of SOD1 gene mutations and activity alterations in two Italian families with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neurosci Lett 2000; 289:157-60. [PMID: 10961653 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(00)01273-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [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: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive fatal disorder, which results from the degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. Approximately 20% of the inherited autosomal dominant cases are due to mutations within the gene coding for Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), a cytosolic homodimeric enzyme that catalyzes the dismutation of toxic superoxide anion. We investigated the presence of SOD1 gene mutations and activity alterations in two unrelated families of ALS patients from Elba, an island of central Italy. No mutation in SOD1 exon 1 to 5 and no activity alteration were observed in all members of the two analyzed ALS families (FALS). These data show an apparent heterogeneous distribution of ALS patients with SOD1 gene mutations among different populations and suggest that another genetic locus could be involved in the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Gestri
- Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, University of Florence, Italy
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20
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Abstract
Risperidone is a heterocyclic neuroleptic with prominent antiserotoninergic (5HT2) as well as antidopaminergic (D2) activity. We studied the efficacy of risperidone in the treatment of idiopathic and symptomatic dystonias in seven patients using the Fahn and Marsden rating scale for torsion dystonia before and after four weeks of treatment (2-6 mg/day). The twisting and involuntary movements with abnormal postures decreased in all the patients treated, with a statistically significant mean improvement (41%; p = 0.009, CI 95%). Our results suggest that risperidone is useful in idiopathic and symptomatic dystonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Grassi
- Department of Neurological and Psychiatric Sciences, University of Florence, Italy
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21
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Morrica A, Maggi F, Vatteroni ML, Fornai C, Pistello M, Ciccorossi P, Grassi E, Gennazzani A, Bendinelli M. TT virus: evidence for transplacental transmission. J Infect Dis 2000; 181:803-4. [PMID: 10669384 DOI: 10.1086/315296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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22
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Grassi B, Garghentini G, Campana A, Grassi E, Bertelli S, Cinque P, Epifani M, Lazzarin A, Scarone S. Spatial working memory in asymptomatic HIV-infected subjects. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 1999; 11:387-91. [PMID: 10440016 DOI: 10.1176/jnp.11.3.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Many clinical and research findings converge to indicate that frontal lobe, basal ganglia, and related neuronal connections are primarily involved in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection; frontal lobe, mainly the prefrontal cortex, has a specialized role in working memory processes. This study focused on neuropsychological evaluation of the spatial component of working memory in a sample of 34 asymptomatic HIV-infected subjects as compared with 34 age- and sex-matched seronegative control subjects. A computer-administered test assessing spatial working memory was used for the neuropsychological evaluation. The findings did not show any spatial working memory impairment during the asymptomatic phase of HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Grassi
- Psychiatric Branch, Centro San Luigi, University of Milan Medical School, Italy
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23
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Petruzzi E, Orlando C, Pinzani P, Gallai R, Ognibene A, Grassi E, Sorbi S, Monti D, Franceschi C, Masotti G, Pazzagli M. Serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in healthy centenarian subjects. J Endocrinol Invest 1999; 22:76. [PMID: 10727056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- E Petruzzi
- Institute of Gerontology, University of Florence, Italy
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24
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25
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Molani L, Morandi C, Papa L, Carra S, Pedretti L, Grassi E, Reggiani G. [Percutaneous embolization with tungsten coils of a splenic artery aneurysm: report of a case]. Radiol Med 1997; 93:477-9. [PMID: 9244936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L Molani
- Servizio di Radiologia Ospedale C. Poma, Mantova
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26
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Ardizzone S, Grassi E. Sulfate-modified zirconia catalysts: the role of surface electrification on the features of the sulfate adsorption process. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 1996. [DOI: 10.1016/s0022-0728(96)04724-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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27
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O'Donovan MC, Guy C, Craddock N, Bowen T, McKeon P, Macedo A, Maier W, Wildenauer D, Aschauer HN, Sorbi S, Feldman E, Mynett-Johnson L, Claffey E, Nacmias B, Valente J, Dourado A, Grassi E, Lenzinger E, Heiden AM, Moorhead S, Harrison D, Williams J, McGuffin P, Owen MJ. Confirmation of association between expanded CAG/CTG repeats and both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Psychol Med 1996; 26:1145-1153. [PMID: 8931160 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291700035868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested that expanded CAG/CTG repeats contribute to the genetic aetiology of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, the nature of this contribution is uncertain and difficult to predict from other known trinucleotide repeat diseases that display much simpler patterns of inheritance. We have sought to replicate and extend earlier findings using Repeat Expansion Detection in an enlarged sample of 152 patients with schizophrenia, 143 patients with bipolar disorder, and 160 controls. We have also examined DNA from the parents of 62 probands with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Our results confirm our earlier, preliminary findings of an association between expanded trinucleotide repeats and both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, our data do not support the hypothesis that trinucleotide repeat expansion can alone explain the complex patterns of inheritance of the functional psychoses neither can this mechanism fully explain apparent anticipation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C O'Donovan
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff
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28
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Grassi E, Mortilla M, Amaducci L, Pallanti S, Pazzagli A, Galassi F, Guarnieri BM, Petruzzi C, Bolino F, Ortenzi L, Nistico R, De Cataldo S, Rossi A, Sorbi S. No evidence of linkage between schizophrenia and D2 dopamine receptor gene locus in Italian pedigrees. Neurosci Lett 1996; 206:196-8. [PMID: 8710185 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3940(96)12463-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Our purpose was to test the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2), the tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) gene and the monoamino oxydase A (MAO-A) gene for linkage to schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. We have analyzed seven Italian families with schizophrenia and four families with bipolar disorders for a total of 68 individuals; 32 individuals were affected. Diagnoses were made using the structured clinical interview Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia, Lifetime version (SADS-L). The results of our study provide no evidence of linkage between alleles at D2 dopamine receptor loci and schizophrenia or bipolar disorders. The markers TH gene and MAO-A gene give slightly positive or negative results suggesting the utility of further analysis on more informative families.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Grassi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Neurologiche e Psichiatriche, Università di Firenze, Italy
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29
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Cantore M, Fiorentini G, Molani L, Cavazzini G, Aitini E, Rabbi C, Mambrini A, Zamagni D, Amadori M, Morandi C, Grassi E, Lusenti A, Smerieri F. 552 Intra-arterial chemotherapy for locally advanced carcinoma of the pancreas (LAPC). Eur J Cancer 1995. [DOI: 10.1016/0959-8049(95)95806-h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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30
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Gonzalez JC, Oliveira A, Cheaello F, Grassi E, Hiboiro JP. NON-INVASIVE ESTIMATION OF THE LACTATE THRESHOLD FROM HEART RATE RESPONSE TO SUBMAXIMAL EXERCISE. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1992. [DOI: 10.1249/00005768-199205001-00993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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31
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Castello D, Grassi E, Visca A, Gaggero L. [Bronchography in children. Methodologic, statistical and functional findings]. Minerva Pediatr 1989; 41:405-12. [PMID: 2601659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The value of bronchography in the various respiratory diseases of childhood is examined. After a brief critical review of the historical development of bronchography, 10 cases encountered in the Pneumology Unit of Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, Turin are examined in order to compare the indications to and results of bronchography. In the light of the results obtained guidelines for the selection of bronchography as a diagnostic procedure are presented, specifying the situations in which stratigraphy, CAT scans or NMR are not adequate substitutes and suggesting what should be the current role of bronchography in paediatrics.
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32
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Sautebin L, Viganò T, Grassi E, Crivellari MT, Galli G, Berti F, Mezzetti M, Folco G. Release of leukotrienes, induced by the Ca++ ionophore A23187, from human lung parenchyma in vitro. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1985; 234:217-21. [PMID: 2989505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
When chopped human lung is stimulated with the Ca++ ionophore A23187 (0.25-10 microM) leukotriene (LT) B4, LTD4 and LTE4 are found in the incubation medium according to different patterns. LTD4 is released promptly and its levels increase up to 45 min after the stimulus (A23187, 10 microM) and decline later (120 min); LTE4 formation follows a sigmoidal shape and continues to accumulate even 2 hr after the challenge; LTB4 levels reach a plateau at 45 min. LTC4 was undetectable in most experiments but it was found to accumulate when reduced glutathione (10 mM) was added. Addition of exogenous LTC4 to unstimulated fragments of human lung shows that an effective interconversion to LTD4 and LTE4 takes place: A23187 stimulates formation of LT and cyclo-oxygenase products dose dependently; a statistically significant formation of LT occurs at A23187 concentration of 1 microM whereas thromboxane B2 (TXB2) and 6-K-prostaglandin F1 alpha levels increased significantly only at 2.5 microM A23187. Pretreatment with U-60257 (100 microM) prevented formation of LT without a concomitant increase of TXB2 levels. Indomethacin (1.5 microM) blocked the release of 6-K-prostaglandin F1 alpha and TXB2 without a shift of arachidonic acid towards LT-like activity. Addition of exogenous LTC4 did not trigger synthesis of TXB2 or 6-K-prostaglandin F1 alpha. Our results indicate that reduced glutathione levels and the activity of the enzymes involved in LT biosynthesis and/or metabolism play an important role in controlling the pattern of LT release from human lung.
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33
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Alvarez CB, Castelli A, Grassi E, Celener D, Rapapport M, Martín J. Action of amiodarone over the extension and reversibility of experimental myocardial infarction in pigs. Tex Heart Inst J 1984; 11:352-62. [PMID: 15226875 PMCID: PMC351709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the present work is to evaluate the action of a benzofuran derivative, Amiodarone, on an experimental acute infarction model. Six pigs were intravenously administered 1 mg/kg Amiodarone (A) 20 minutes before inducing ischemia (I) by occlusion of the anterior descending coronary artery, which was maintained for 90 minutes. A similar dose level was repeated 20 minutes before ligation release (R). Similarly, another six animals received a placebo and formed the Control Group (C). The extent of myocardial injury was assessed by summations of ST segments (Sigma ST) and R (Sigma R) and Q (Sigma Q) waves of electrocardiographic epicardial mappings, as well as by serum levels for SGOT and LDH. Systemic blood pressure, pulmonary pressure, right atrial pressure, systemic resistance and cardiac output were also controlled. Two hundred and ten minutes after R, the animal was sacrificed for the purpose of carrying out morphological and histochemical studies. No significant differences were observed in the blood pressure of either group. During I, systemic resistance values suffered a drop in the Amiodarone Group A, whereas they increased in both groups after reperfusion. Pulmonary pressure was higher in Group A. Cardiac output showed a similar behavior in both groups up to R, when it significantly decreased in animals receiving Amiodarone. The Sigma ST and the Sigma Q were higher in the Control Group C, whereas the Sigma R was higher in Group A. The SGOT and LDH levels were higher during R in Group C. Histochemistry showed a higher activity for SDH and LDH in treated animals. Due to its action on afterload, its contractility and its direct myocardial action, Amiodarone limited the extent of necrosis and increased the recoverable amount of myocardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Alvarez
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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34
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Sanghvi A, Grassi E, Diven W. Loss of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity in vitro in the presence of bivalent metal ions and by dialysis of rat liver microsomes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1983; 80:2175-8. [PMID: 6300898 PMCID: PMC393780 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.80.8.2175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
A loss in cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity [cholesterol 7 alpha-monooxygenase; cholesterol,NADPH:oxygen oxidoreductase (7 alpha-hydroxylating), EC 1.14.13.17] was seen when rat liver microsomes were incubated in the presence of Ca2+, Mg2+, or Mn2+. The loss in enzyme activity was complete within only 5 min of incubation with Ca2+ and Mn2+, whereas Mg2+ required 10 to 15 min of incubation with microsomes to produce a similar inhibition. This effect of metal ions could be blocked if the incubations were carried out in phosphate buffer. Similarly, preincubation of microsomes in the presence of NaF completely prevented the loss in enzyme activity due to Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions, but only partially the loss due to Mn2+. These results suggest metal ion activation of an endogenous microsomal phosphatase, which in turn may inactivate cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase through its dephosphorylation. Further, a dialyzable microsomal factor appears to be essential for stabilizing the enzyme, because dialysis of a microsomal suspension results in a considerable loss of enzyme activity.
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Abstract
Formation of 7 alpha-hydroxycholesterol by rat liver microsomes was quantitated using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC/MS) operated in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. Microsomes from normal rat livers incubated for different periods were found to yield increased 7 alpha-hydroxycholesterol with time. This was also true when incubations contained Tween-80, but in this instance, the rate of 7 alpha-hydroxycholesterol production was lower and dependent on the concentration of Tween used. Similarly, Triton X-100, Renex-30, Kyro EOB, Cutscum, and Emulgen 911 all lowered the formation of 7 alpha-hydroxycholesterol by rat liver microsomes, whereas Triton WR-1339 stimulated its production. Analysis of data obtained from following the enzyme reaction over an extended period using an integrated Michaelis-Menten equation indicated the enzyme possesses a very significant affinity for the product (Ks greater than Kp). Similar analysis shows that Tween-80 is a noncompetitive inhibitor of the enzyme.
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Sanghvi A, Grassi E, Warty V, Diven W, Wight C, Lester R. Reversible activation-inactivation of cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase possibly due to phosphorylation-dephosphorylation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1981; 103:886-92. [PMID: 7036999 DOI: 10.1016/0006-291x(81)90893-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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37
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Grassi E, Tagliavini J, Lucci B. [Recent progress in the diagnosis and prevention of Duchenne and Steinert muscular dystrophies]. Riv Neurobiol 1981; 27:750-9. [PMID: 7052686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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38
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Sanghvi A, Grassi E, Bartman C, Lester R, Galli Kienle M, Galli G. Measurement of cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity with selected ion monitoring. J Lipid Res 1981; 22:720-4. [PMID: 7276747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Formation of 7 alpha-hydroxycholesterol by rat liver microsomes was quantitated using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer operated in selected ion monitoring mode. This procedure measures the mass of 7 alpha-hydroxycholesterol formed and does not require addition of labeled cholesterol to monitor the reaction, since endogenous microsomal cholesterol serves as substrate for the enzyme cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase. The method requires only the extraction of lipids from microsomal incubations and injection of a small fraction of this extract into the apparatus. Microsomes from normal rat livers incubated for different periods were found to yield increased 7 alpha-hydroxycholesterol with time.
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39
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Lucci B, Grassi E, Reggiani R. [Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and pregnancy]. Riv Neurobiol 1980; 26:419-27. [PMID: 7041230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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40
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Artesani L, Bianchi A, Balocco A, Grassi E, Bai A, Simone F. [The skeleton in malabsorption: modern techniques in x-ray densitometry]. Radiol Med 1980; 66:629-31. [PMID: 7232795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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41
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Tagliavini J, Ottonello S, Grassi E, Marchini C, Rossi GL, Lucci B, Parma M, Reggiani R. Carrier detection in Duchenne muscular dystropy. Neurology 1979; 29:1423-5. [PMID: 573388 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.29.10.1423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the number of echinocytes, the serum hemopexin level, and spectrin band II phosphorylation in the blood of normal subjects, patients, and carriers of Duchenne dystrophy. The patients and carriers exhibited quantitatively significant differences with respect to controls.
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Solerio L, Bardini T, Canavese F, Grassi E. [Radiology in pre- and post-operative evaluation of anorectal anomalies]. Radiol Med 1979; 65:360-2. [PMID: 549131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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43
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Carpeggiani P, Grassi E, Juvarra G, Marbini A, Mazzucchi A, Moretti G, Parma M. [Hyperthyroidism and myasthenia: diagnostic and autoimmune correlations]. Riv Neurobiol 1979; 25:150-7. [PMID: 554340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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44
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Grassi E, Lucci B, Marchini C, Ottonello S, Parma M, Reggiani R, Rossi GL, Tagliavini J. Deformed erythrocytes in muscular dystrophies. Neurology 1978; 28:842-4. [PMID: 567302 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.28.8.842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of previous reports of a possible correlation between echinocytogenesis and muscular dystrophies, we investigated the time-dependent development of echinocytes in the blood of normal subjects, patients, and healthy carries of Duchenne dystrophy. There was a quantitatively significant increase of echinocytes in patients and carriers.
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45
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Lucci B, Grassi E, Marchini C, Ottonello S, Parma M, Reggiani R, Rossi GL. [Erythrocyte changes in primary muscular dystrophy and their possible use in diagnosis of patients and healthy carriers]. Riv Neurobiol 1978; 24:88-100. [PMID: 757648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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46
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Grassi E, Passetti GL, Trebbi A. Quantitative determination of pinazepam and its metabolites in blood and urine by high-performance liquid chromatography. J Chromatogr A 1977; 144:132-5. [PMID: 914958 DOI: 10.1016/0021-9673(77)80017-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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47
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Grassi E, Lucci B, Marchini C, Parma M, Reggiani R. [Echinocytes in the detection of patients and healthy carriers of some neuromuscular diseases]. Riv Neurobiol 1977; 23:293-7. [PMID: 617901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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48
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Fasanelli S, Randaccio M, Grassi E. [The lung in some childhood immunopathies]. Minerva Pediatr 1977; 29:1285-300. [PMID: 882072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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49
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Grassi E, Marbini A, Marchini C, Parma M, Zampollo A. [Duchenne muscular dystrophy in girls (author's transl)]. Ateneo Parmense Acta Biomed 1976; 47:303-11. [PMID: 1016284] [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: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The AA., after a review cases of girls suffering from a muscular dystrophy like Duchenne, present two cases that they think to set in the same nosographical context. Even though they admit its extreme rarity and the possiblility that many cases previously published are controversial, they accept that Duchenne myodistrophic syndromes certainly occur in girls, even if their substantial nature remain uncertain.
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50
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De Filippi G, Grassi E, Randaccio M. [Angiographic and bronchographic aspects of idiopathic and secondary vanishing lung in childhood]. Radiol Med 1976; 62:248-54. [PMID: 1078282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Three cases of primary vanishing lung and one case secondary to endobronchial foreign body in children were studied by bronchography and angiography. Results are discussed.
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