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Napolitano G, Has C, Schwerk A, Yuan JH, Ullrich C. Potential of Artificial Intelligence to Accelerate Drug Development for Rare Diseases. Pharmaceut Med 2024; 38:79-86. [PMID: 38315404 DOI: 10.1007/s40290-023-00504-9] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The growth in breadth and depth of artificial intelligence (AI) applications has been fast, running hand in hand with the increasing amount of digital data available. Here, we comment on the application of AI in the field of drug development, with a strong focus on the specific achievements and challenges posed by rare diseases. Data paucity and high costs make drug development for rare diseases especially hard. AI can enable otherwise inaccessible approaches based on the large-scale integration of heterogeneous datasets and knowledge bases, guided by expert biological understanding. Obstacles still exist for the routine use of AI in the usually conservative pharmaceutical domain, which can easily become disillusioned. It is crucial to acknowledge that AI is a powerful, supportive tool that can assist but not replace human expertise in the various phases and aspects of drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Canan Has
- Centogene GmbH, Alboinstraße 36-42, 12103, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anne Schwerk
- Beriln Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jui-Hung Yuan
- Beriln Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Ullrich
- Beriln Institute of Health Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Naccarelli R, D’Agresti F, Roelen SD, Jokinen K, Casaccia S, Revel GM, Maggio M, Azimi Z, Alam MM, Saleem Q, Mohammed AH, Napolitano G, Szczepaniak F, Hariz M, Chollet G, Lohr C, Boudy J, Wieching R, Ogawa T. Empowering Smart Aging: Insights into the Technical Architecture of the e-VITA Virtual Coaching System for Older Adults. Sensors (Basel) 2024; 24:638. [PMID: 38276330 PMCID: PMC10818560 DOI: 10.3390/s24020638] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
With a substantial rise in life expectancy throughout the last century, society faces the imperative of seeking inventive approaches to foster active aging and provide adequate aging care. The e-VITA initiative, jointly funded by the European Union and Japan, centers on an advanced virtual coaching methodology designed to target essential aspects of promoting active and healthy aging. This paper describes the technical framework underlying the e-VITA virtual coaching system platform and presents preliminary feedback on its use. At its core is the e-VITA Manager, a pivotal component responsible for harmonizing the seamless integration of various specialized devices and modules. These modules include the Dialogue Manager, Data Fusion, and Emotional Detection, each making distinct contributions to enhance the platform's functionalities. The platform's design incorporates a multitude of devices and software components from Europe and Japan, each built upon diverse technologies and standards. This versatile platform facilitates communication and seamless integration among smart devices such as sensors and robots while efficiently managing data to provide comprehensive coaching functionalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Naccarelli
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy; (S.C.); (G.M.R.)
| | | | - Sonja Dana Roelen
- Institut für Experimentelle Psychophysiologie GmbH, 40215 Düsseldorf, Germany; (S.D.R.); (Z.A.)
| | - Kristiina Jokinen
- Artificial Intelligence Research Center, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIRC/AIST), Tokyo 135-0064, Japan;
| | - Sara Casaccia
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy; (S.C.); (G.M.R.)
| | - Gian Marco Revel
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy; (S.C.); (G.M.R.)
| | - Martino Maggio
- Engineering Ingegneria Informatica SpA, 00144 Roma, Italy; (F.D.); (M.M.)
| | - Zohre Azimi
- Institut für Experimentelle Psychophysiologie GmbH, 40215 Düsseldorf, Germany; (S.D.R.); (Z.A.)
| | - Mirza Mohtashim Alam
- Leibniz Institute for Information Infrastructure, FIZ Karlsruhe, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany;
| | - Qasid Saleem
- Institute for Applied Informatics (InfAI), 04109 Leipzig, Germany; (Q.S.); (A.H.M.); (G.N.)
| | - Abrar Hyder Mohammed
- Institute for Applied Informatics (InfAI), 04109 Leipzig, Germany; (Q.S.); (A.H.M.); (G.N.)
| | - Giulio Napolitano
- Institute for Applied Informatics (InfAI), 04109 Leipzig, Germany; (Q.S.); (A.H.M.); (G.N.)
| | - Florian Szczepaniak
- Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), 91120 Palaiseau, France; (F.S.); (M.H.); (G.C.); (C.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Mossaab Hariz
- Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), 91120 Palaiseau, France; (F.S.); (M.H.); (G.C.); (C.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Gérard Chollet
- Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), 91120 Palaiseau, France; (F.S.); (M.H.); (G.C.); (C.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Christophe Lohr
- Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), 91120 Palaiseau, France; (F.S.); (M.H.); (G.C.); (C.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Jérôme Boudy
- Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), 91120 Palaiseau, France; (F.S.); (M.H.); (G.C.); (C.L.); (J.B.)
| | - Rainer Wieching
- Institute for Business Informatics & New Media, University Siegen, Kohlbettstr. 15, 57072 Siegen, Germany;
| | - Toshimi Ogawa
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan;
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McTear M, Jokinen K, Alam MM, Saleem Q, Napolitano G, Szczepaniak F, Hariz M, Chollet G, Lohr C, Boudy J, Azimi Z, Roelen SD, Wieching R. Interaction with a Virtual Coach for Active and Healthy Ageing. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:2748. [PMID: 36904957 PMCID: PMC10007549 DOI: 10.3390/s23052748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Since life expectancy has increased significantly over the past century, society is being forced to discover innovative ways to support active aging and elderly care. The e-VITA project, which receives funding from both the European Union and Japan, is built on a cutting edge method of virtual coaching that focuses on the key areas of active and healthy aging. The requirements for the virtual coach were ascertained through a process of participatory design in workshops, focus groups, and living laboratories in Germany, France, Italy, and Japan. Several use cases were then chosen for development utilising the open-source Rasa framework. The system uses common representations such as Knowledge Bases and Knowledge Graphs to enable the integration of context, subject expertise, and multimodal data, and is available in English, German, French, Italian, and Japanese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael McTear
- School of Computing, Ulster University, Belfast BT15 1AP, UK
| | - Kristiina Jokinen
- Artificial Intelligence Research Center, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIRC/AIST), Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
| | | | - Qasid Saleem
- Institut für Angewandte Informatik (INFAI), 04109 Leipzig, Germany
| | | | | | - Mossaab Hariz
- Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), 91120 Palaiseau, France
| | | | | | - Jérôme Boudy
- Institut Mines-Télécom (IMT), 91120 Palaiseau, France
| | - Zohre Azimi
- Institut für Experimentelle Psychophysiologie Gmbh (IXP), 40215 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sonja Dana Roelen
- Institut für Experimentelle Psychophysiologie Gmbh (IXP), 40215 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Rainer Wieching
- Chair for Business Information Systems and New Media, Faculty III, Universität Siegen (USI), 57068 Siegen, Germany
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Soerjomataram I, Ervik M, Fox C, Hawkins S, Yeung K, Napolitano G, Tittenbrun Z, Bray F, Gavin A. CanStaging+: an electronic staging tool for population-based cancer registries. Lancet Oncol 2021; 22:1069. [PMID: 34339643 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(21)00188-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Soerjomataram
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon 69008, France.
| | - Morten Ervik
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon 69008, France
| | - Colin Fox
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Sinead Hawkins
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Kenneth Yeung
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | - Freddie Bray
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon 69008, France
| | - Anna Gavin
- Northern Ireland Cancer Registry, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Celarier S, Monziols S, Célérier B, Assenat V, Carles P, Napolitano G, Laclau-Lacrouts M, Rullier E, Ouattara A, Denost Q. Low-pressure versus standard pressure laparoscopic colorectal surgery (PAROS trial): a phase III randomized controlled trial. Br J Surg 2021; 108:998-1005. [PMID: 33755088 DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znab069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
TRIAL DESIGN This is a phase III, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. METHODS In this trial, patients with laparoscopic colectomy were assigned to either low pressure (LP: 7 mmHg) or standard pressure (SP: 12 mmHg) at a ratio of 1 : 1. The aim of this trial was to assess the impact of low-pressure pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic colectomy on postoperative recovery. The primary endpoint was the duration of hospital stay. The main secondary endpoints were postoperative pain, consumption of analgesics and postoperative morbidity. RESULTS Some 138 patients were enrolled, of whom 11 were excluded and 127 were analysed: 62 with LP and 65 with SP. Duration of hospital stay (3 versus 4 days; P = 0.010), visual analog scale (0.5 versus 2.0; P = 0.008) and analgesic consumption (level II: 73 versus 88 per cent; P = 0.032; level III: 10 versus 23 per cent; P = 0.042) were lower with LP. Morbidity was not significantly different between the two groups (10 versus 17 per cent; P = 0.231). CONCLUSION Using low-pressure pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic colonic resection improves postoperative recovery, shortening the duration of hospitalization and decreasing postoperative pain and analgesic consumption. This suggests that low pressure should become the standard of care for laparoscopic colectomy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03813797.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Celarier
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, Pessac, France
| | - S Monziols
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Magellan Medico-Surgical Centre, Bordeaux, France
| | - B Célérier
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, Pessac, France
| | - V Assenat
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, Pessac, France
| | - P Carles
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Magellan Medico-Surgical Centre, Bordeaux, France
| | - G Napolitano
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Magellan Medico-Surgical Centre, Bordeaux, France
| | - M Laclau-Lacrouts
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, Pessac, France
| | - E Rullier
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, Pessac, France
| | - A Ouattara
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, Magellan Medico-Surgical Centre, Bordeaux, France.,Université de Bordeaux, INSERM, U 1034, Biology of Cardiovascular Diseases, Pessac, France
| | - Q Denost
- CHU Bordeaux, Department of Digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, Pessac, France
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Tardivo S, Zenere A, Moretti F, Marchiori F, Berti D, Migliorini M, Tomasi A, Ferrari S, Tognon F, Napolitano G, Rossanese A. Corrigendum to: The Traveller's Risk Perception (TRiP) questionnaire: pre-travel assessment and post-travel changes. Int Health 2020; 12:234. [PMID: 31777922 PMCID: PMC7320420 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihz100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - F Marchiori
- Corresponding author: Tel: +039 3922862331; E-mail:
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Celarier S, Monziols S, Francois MO, Assenat V, Carles P, Capdepont M, Fleming C, Rullier E, Napolitano G, Denost Q. Randomized trial comparing low-pressure versus standard-pressure pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic colectomy: PAROS trial. Trials 2020; 21:216. [PMID: 32087762 PMCID: PMC7036186 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-4140-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Laparoscopy, by its minimally invasive nature, has revolutionized digestive and particularly colorectal surgery by decreasing post-operative pain, morbidity, and length of hospital stay. In this trial, we aim to assess whether low pressure in laparoscopic colonic surgery (7 mm Hg instead of 12 mm Hg) could further reduce pain, analgesic consumption, and morbidity, resulting in a shorter hospital stay. Methods and analysis The PAROS trial is a phase III, double-blind, randomized controlled trial. We aim to recruit 138 patients undergoing laparoscopic colectomy. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a low-pressure group (7 mm Hg) or a standard-pressure group (12 mm Hg). The primary outcome will be a comparison of length of hospital stay between the two groups. Secondary outcomes will compare post-operative pain, consumption of analgesics, morbidity within 30 days, technical and oncological quality of the surgical procedure, time to passage of flatus and stool, and ambulation. All adverse events will be recorded. Analysis will be performed on an intention-to-treat basis. Trial registration This research received the approval from the Committee for the Protection of Persons and was the subject of information to the ANSM. This search is saved in the ID-RCB database under registration number 2018-A03028–47. This research is retrospectively registered January 23, 2019, at http://clinicaltrials.gov/ed under the name “LaPAroscopic Low pRessure cOlorectal Surgery (PAROS)”. This trial is ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Celarier
- Department of digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - S Monziols
- Department of Anesthesia ans Critical Care, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - M O Francois
- Department of digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - V Assenat
- Department of digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - P Carles
- Department of Anesthesia ans Critical Care, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - M Capdepont
- Department of digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - C Fleming
- Department of digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - E Rullier
- Department of digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - G Napolitano
- Department of Anesthesia ans Critical Care, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France
| | - Q Denost
- Department of digestive Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France. .,Department of digestive Surgery, Bordeaux University Hospital, 1 Avenue de Magellan, Pessac, 33600, France.
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Skorstengaard M, Lynge E, Suhr J, Napolitano G. Conservative management of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 in Denmark: a cohort study. BJOG 2020; 127:729-736. [PMID: 31880054 PMCID: PMC7383715 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assess the progression, persistence, and regression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2) after new guidelines on conservative treatment, compared with previous practice. DESIGN Nationwide register-based cohort study. SETTING Denmark. POPULATION Women aged 18-44 years diagnosed with CIN2 on biopsy: 6721 in 2008-2011 and 6399 in 2014-2017. METHODS Register data were retrieved from before (2008-2011) and after (2014-2017) the introduction of new guidelines. Histology diagnoses at second visit were used to assess progression (CIN3+), persistence (CIN2), or regression (CIN1/normal). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Proportion of CIN2 by type of management. Relative risk (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for progression, persistence, and regression at second visit in 2014-2017, versus 2008-2011. RESULTS The proportion of CIN2 managed conservatively increased from 29.6% in 2008-2011 to 53.3% in 2014-2017 (RR 1.81, 95% CI 1.73-1.89). Time to second visit increased by 2 months. Regression increased from 23.5 to 30.2% (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.22-1.36), whereas persistence and progression decreased, from 42.6 to 34.9% (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.78-0.86) and from 28.0 to 22.8% (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.77-0.86), respectively. In 2008-2011, women managed conservatively had a regression rate of 41.8%, persistence rate of 40.9%, and progression rate of 16.6%. In 2014-2017, these rates were 46.7, 35.5, and 17.1%, respectively. CONCLUSION After implementation of the new guidelines, conservative management became more frequent, and is now used for more than half of women with CIN2. Lesion regression became more frequent, now experienced by 47% of women managed conservatively. Similar regression rates were seen in women younger and older than 30 years, suggesting that conservative management is justifiable for women of childbearing age. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT In Denmark, more than half of women with CIN2 are managed conservatively, and half of these women experience lesion regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Skorstengaard
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - E Lynge
- Nykøbing Falster Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Suhr
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - G Napolitano
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Montarsi F, Carlin S, Da Rold G, Ravagnan S, Porcellato E, Toniolo F, Michelutti A, Gradoni F, Napolitano G, Ianniello M, Capelli G. The significance of the entomological surveillance in the prevention of vector-borne diseases. Int J Infect Dis 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2018.11.158] [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] Open
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Napolitano G, Venditti P, Fasciolo G, Esposito D, Uliano E, Agnisola C. Acute hypoxia/reoxygenation affects muscle mitochondrial respiration and redox state as well as swimming endurance in zebrafish. J Comp Physiol B 2018; 189:97-108. [DOI: 10.1007/s00360-018-1198-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Di Blasio A, Tranquilli A, Di Santo S, Marchetti G, Bergamin M, Bullo V, Cugusi L, Tavoletta S, Gallazzi A, Bucci I, Napolitano G. Does the cool-down content affect cortisol and testosterone production after a whole-body workout? A pilot study. Sport Sci Health 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11332-018-0465-y] [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: 12/01/2022]
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Izzicupo P, D'Amico MA, Di Blasio A, Napolitano G, Di Baldassarre A, Ghinassi B. Nordic walking increases circulating VEGF more than traditional walking training in postmenopause. Climacteric 2017; 20:533-539. [PMID: 28920458 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2017.1366979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Nordic walking (NW) is widely practiced by postmenopausal women. Its effects are peculiar owing to the involvement of more muscle groups than in traditional walking training (WT). Since mechanical load promotes secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from both skeletal muscle and muscle endothelium, the aim of the study was to compare the effect of NW and WT on VEGF levels. METHOD Thirty postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to NW or WT. Both groups trained 40-50 min/day, three times per week, at a mean intensity of 12 on a 15-category scale of the ratings of perceived exertion. Since VEGF is also released from adipocytes, anthropometric parameters were assessed. RESULTS NW increased circulating VEGF more than WT (p = 0.041). Furthermore, both study groups exhibited an average decrease in weight (p = 0.023), body mass index (p = 0.024), hip circumference (p = 0.001), and arm fat index, although WT participants had higher values for this index at baseline (p < 0.001) and thus exhibited a greater net decrease compared with the NW participants (p < 0.011). CONCLUSIONS These data imply that NW increases the level of circulating VEGF more than does traditional walking when the intensity of training is equivalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Izzicupo
- a Department of Medicine and Aging Science , University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara , Chieti , Pescara , Italy
| | - M A D'Amico
- a Department of Medicine and Aging Science , University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara , Chieti , Pescara , Italy
| | - A Di Blasio
- a Department of Medicine and Aging Science , University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara , Chieti , Pescara , Italy
| | - G Napolitano
- a Department of Medicine and Aging Science , University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara , Chieti , Pescara , Italy
| | - A Di Baldassarre
- a Department of Medicine and Aging Science , University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara , Chieti , Pescara , Italy
| | - B Ghinassi
- a Department of Medicine and Aging Science , University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara , Chieti , Pescara , Italy
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Napolitano G, Stingl JC, Schmid M, Viviani R. Predicting CYP2D6 phenotype from resting brain perfusion images by gradient boosting. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2017; 259:16-24. [PMID: 27918912 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The cytochrome P450 enzyme 2D6 is involved in the metabolism of 20% of all commonly used drugs, including many psychotropic drugs and CNS-active substances. CYP2D6 is among the CYP enzymes with the highest expression levels in the brain, suggesting a role in the local brain metabolism of psychotropic drugs and the existence of endogenous substrates. The genetic polymorphism of CYP2D6, which causes individual differences in activity levels of the enzyme, has also been characterized functionally in human brain imaging studies. Here we explore the feasibility of predicting CYP2D6 phenotype using component-wise gradient boosting on fMRI resting brain perfusion images. The images belonged to subjects showing a range of genetic CYP2D6 variants. We achieved sensitivity and specificity values between 85% and 87% for the classification of ultrarapid metabolisers, and between 71% and 79% for poor metabolisers. An extension of the boosting algorithm, developed to improve the clinical plausibility of the inherently sparse models, produced enhanced models in agreement with the results of previous studies, showing some brain regions as positively associated with genotypic variation, most prominently in the prefrontal white matter and the corpus callosum. With further development, such a probabilistic method might constitute a valuable, non-invasive alternative to actual genotyping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Napolitano
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMBIE), University Hospital Bonn, Germany.
| | - Julia C Stingl
- Federal Institute for drugs and medical devices, Research division, Centre for Translational Medicine and University Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthias Schmid
- Institute of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMBIE), University Hospital Bonn, Germany
| | - Roberto Viviani
- Institute of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Austria, and Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Clinic, University of Ulm, Germany
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Cueva Recalde JF, Velcea A, Aguiar Rosa S, Surkova E, Bucciarelli V, Kupczynska K, Miskowiec D, Reskovic Luksic V, Verseckaite R, Jillott N, Muraru D, Muraru D, Borizanova A, Caroli S, Guerreiro S, Miskowiec D, Miskowiec D, Mahmoud HM, Peovska Mitevska I, Babukov R, Brecht A, Garcia-Sanchez MJ, Gayan Ordas J, Lacambra Blasco I, Mihaila S, Andronic AA, Marcu S, Vinereanu D, Galrinho A, Branco L, Timoteo A, Cunha P, Lousinha A, Valente B, Pereira Silva T, Oliveira M, Cruz Ferreira R, Aalen J, Samset E, Bidviene J, Aruta P, Romeo G, Sambugaro F, Badano LP, Muraru D, Bianco F, Di Blasio A, Izzicupo P, Ghinassi B, Napolitano G, Di Baldassarre A, Gallina S, Michalski B, Miskowiec D, Kasprzak JD, Lipiec P, Kupczynska K, Michalski B, Simiera M, Lipiec P, Wejner-Mik P, Wierzbowska-Drabik K, Ojrzanowski M, Kasprzak JD, Pasalic M, Separovic Hanzevacki J, Mizariene V, Montvilaite A, Unikaite R, Bieseviciene M, Jurkevicius R, Wilson S, Marotta C, Mihaila S, Calore C, Bidviene J, Surkova E, Romeo G, Aruta P, Palermo C, Badano LP, Marotta C, Mihaila S, Calore C, Aruta P, Romeo G, Surkova E, Bidviene J, Iliceto S, Badano LP, Kinova E, Kundurzhiev T, Goudev A, Bellsham-Revell HR, Bell AJ, Miller OI, Simpson JM, Raposo L, Andrade MJ, Horta E, Reis C, Almeida M, Mendes M, Wejner-Mik P, Kasprzak JD, Qawoq HD, Zycinski P, Wcislo T, Kupczynska K, Lipiec P, Wejner-Mik P, Kasprzak JD, Qawoq HD, Zycinski P, Wcislo T, Kupczynska K, Lipiec P, Abdel Raouf O, Kheir A, Halawa S, Al-Ghamdi M, Ghabashi A, Srbinovska E, Antova E, Bosevski M, Bazilev VV, Bartosh FL, Bathe M, Oertelt-Prigione S, Seeland U, Regitz-Zagrosek V, Baumann G, Stangl K, Stangl V, Knebel F, Dreger H, Barreiro-Perez M, Arribas-Jimenez A, Martin-Garcia A, Diaz-Pelaez E, Rama-Merchan JC, Cruz-Gonzalez I, Sanchez PL. HIT Poster session 2P479Strain concordance in a real-world setting: experience in our laboratory after equipment upgradeP4803D echocardiography is a fast-learning and reliable method for the measurements of left atrial volumesP481Echocardiographic parameters associated with long-term appropriate antiarrhythmic therapies in cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator patientsP482Noninvasively measured global wasted myocardial work allows for quantitative assessment of typical left ventricular mechanical dyssynchrony pattern in patients with left bundle branch blockP483The impact of adherence to physical exercise on the improvement of cardiovascular remodeling and metabolic status in healthy untrained postmenopausal womenP484The impact of the latest chamber quantification recommendations on the prediction of left atrial appendage thrombus presenceP485The cardiac-enriched miRNAs plasma levels (miR-1, miR-133a, miR-499) reflect the impaired left ventricular systolic function and correlate with cardiac necrosis markers in early phase of NSTE-ACSP486Acute regional myocardial deformation changes in patients with severe aortic stenosis and preserved ejection fraction after isolated aortic valve replacementP487Left ventricular rotational deformation in asymptomatic patients with chronic aortic regurgitation and normal left ventricular ejection fraction P488The appropriate use of transthoracic echocardiography for the exclusion of infective endocarditisP489In patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, left ventricular mass and shape by three-dimensional echocardiography are related with dynamic obstruction and functional capacityP490Mitral leaflet sizing in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: impact of method and timingP491Echocardiographic predictors of atrial fibrillation in obese womenP492Echocardiographic risk factors for 30 day mortality after the hybrid procedure for hypoplastic left heart syndromeP493Left ventricular mass is an independent predictor of coronary flow reserve: insights from a single centre stress echo cohortP494Transesophageal echocardigoraphy uner conscious sedation for guiding cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation - the safety and feasibility studyP495Transesophageal echocardigoraphy under conscious sedation for guiding cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation - the safety and feasibility studyP496Three-dimensional trans-esophageal echocardiography assessment of the immediate morphological changes of the mitral annulus after percutaneous mitral edge-to-edge repairP497Clinical value of global and regional longitudinal strain in prediction of myocardial ischemia in asymptomatic diabetes type 2 patientsP499Comparison of prognostic operative risk impact on the global longitudinal strain right ventricle (GLS RV) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) values in patients with ischemic cardioP498Right heart function in early diastolic dysfunction: 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography-based assessment of right atrial and right ventricular functionP500 Comparison of 2D, 3D transesophageal echocardiography and computed tomography during the assessment of left atrial appendage closure. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jew246] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
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Lelario F, Labella C, Napolitano G, Scrano L, Bufo SA. Fragmentation study of major spirosolane-type glycoalkaloids by collision-induced dissociation linear ion trap and infrared multiphoton dissociation Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom 2016; 30:2395-2406. [PMID: 27593526 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.7727] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Glycoalkaloids play a key role in the plant protection system against phytopathogens including fungi, viruses, bacteria, insects and worms. They can be toxic to humans if consumed in high concentrations causing gastrointestinal disturbances. METHODS The structural characterization of the major spirosolane glycoalkaloids, solasonine, solamargine, α-tomatine and dehydrotomatine, were investigated by positive electrospray ionization (ESI) coupled with a hybrid linear ion trap (LIT) and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) mass spectrometer. Tandem mass spectrometric analysis of spirosolane glycoalkaloids was performed by both collision-induced dissociation (CID) within the LIT and infrared multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD) in conjunction with the FTICR cell. RESULTS Several common product ions were observed, generated by losses of the sugar moiety or aglycone fragmentation in the B- or E-ring, that can provide information on the accurate mass of aglycone and the primary sequence and branching of the oligosaccharide chains. Thanks to the multistage CID it was possible to understand the fragmentation pathways and thanks to the high resolution of IRMPD-FTICR the elemental compositions of product ions were obtained. CONCLUSIONS Because the investigated tandem mass spectra data were acquired with high mass accuracy, unambiguous interpretation and determination of the chemical compositions for the majority of detected fragment ions were feasible. From these data, generalized fragmentation pathways were proposed, providing guidance for the characterization of unknown glycoalkaloids in plants. Copyright © John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Lelario
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy.
| | - C Labella
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - G Napolitano
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - L Scrano
- Department of European and Mediterranean Cultures, University of Basilicata, Matera, Italy
| | - S A Bufo
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
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Napolitano G, Marshall A, Hamilton P, Gavin AT. Machine learning classification of surgical pathology reports and chunk recognition for information extraction noise reduction. Artif Intell Med 2016; 70:77-83. [PMID: 27431038 DOI: 10.1016/j.artmed.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Machine learning techniques for the text mining of cancer-related clinical documents have not been sufficiently explored. Here some techniques are presented for the pre-processing of free-text breast cancer pathology reports, with the aim of facilitating the extraction of information relevant to cancer staging. MATERIALS AND METHODS The first technique was implemented using the freely available software RapidMiner to classify the reports according to their general layout: 'semi-structured' and 'unstructured'. The second technique was developed using the open source language engineering framework GATE and aimed at the prediction of chunks of the report text containing information pertaining to the cancer morphology, the tumour size, its hormone receptor status and the number of positive nodes. The classifiers were trained and tested respectively on sets of 635 and 163 manually classified or annotated reports, from the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry. RESULTS The best result of 99.4% accuracy - which included only one semi-structured report predicted as unstructured - was produced by the layout classifier with the k nearest algorithm, using the binary term occurrence word vector type with stopword filter and pruning. For chunk recognition, the best results were found using the PAUM algorithm with the same parameters for all cases, except for the prediction of chunks containing cancer morphology. For semi-structured reports the performance ranged from 0.97 to 0.94 and from 0.92 to 0.83 in precision and recall, while for unstructured reports performance ranged from 0.91 to 0.64 and from 0.68 to 0.41 in precision and recall. Poor results were found when the classifier was trained on semi-structured reports but tested on unstructured. CONCLUSIONS These results show that it is possible and beneficial to predict the layout of reports and that the accuracy of prediction of which segments of a report may contain certain information is sensitive to the report layout and the type of information sought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Napolitano
- Institut für Medizinische Biometrie, Informatik und Epidemiologie (IMBIE), Universität Bonn, Haus 325/11/1.OG/Raum 620, Sigmund-Freud-Straße 25, 53105 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Adele Marshall
- Queen's University Belfast, School of Mathematics and Physics, University Road, Belfast BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Hamilton
- Queen's University Belfast, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - Anna T Gavin
- NICR-Centre for Public Health, The Queen's University of Belfast, Mulhouse Building, Grosvenor Road, Belfast BT12 6DP, United Kingdom
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Venditti P, Napolitano G, Barone D, Coppola I, Di Meo S. Effect of thyroid state on enzymatic and non-enzymatic processes in H2O2 removal by liver mitochondria of male rats. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 403:57-63. [PMID: 25597632 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 09/08/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We investigated thyroid state effect on capacity of rat liver mitochondria to remove exogenously produced H2O2, determining their ability to decrease fluorescence generated by an H2O2 detector system. The rate of H2O2 removal by both non respiring and respiring mitochondria was increased by hyperthyroidism and decreased by hypothyroidism. However, the rate was higher in the presence of respiratory substrates, in particular pyruvate/malate, indicating a respiration-dependent process. Generally, the changes in H2O2 removal rates mirrored those in H2O2 release rates excluding the possibility that endogenous and exogenous H2O2 competed for the removing system. Pharmacological inhibition revealed thyroid state-linked differences in antioxidant enzyme contribution to H2O2 removal which were consistent with those in antioxidant system activities. The H2O2 removal was only in part due to enzymatic systems and that imputable to non-enzymatic processes was higher in hyperthyroid and lower in hypothyroid mitochondria. The levels of cytochrome c and the light emissions, due to luminol oxidation catalyzed by cytochrome/H2O2, exhibited similar changes with thyroid state supporting the idea that non-enzymatic scavenging was mainly due to hemoprotein action, which produces hydroxyl radicals. Further support was obtained showing that the whole antioxidant capacity, which provides an evaluation of capacity of the systems, different from cytochromes, assigned to H2O2 scavenging, was lower in hyperthyroid than in hypothyroid state. In conclusion, our results show that mitochondria from hyperthyroid liver have a high capacity for H2O2 removal, which, however, leading in great part to more reactive oxygen species, results harmful for such organelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Venditti
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", I-80134 Napoli, Italy.
| | - G Napolitano
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", I-80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - D Barone
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", I-80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - I Coppola
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", I-80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - S Di Meo
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", I-80134 Napoli, Italy
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Venditti P, Napolitano G, Barone D, Di Meo S. Vitamin E supplementation modifies adaptive responses to training in rat skeletal muscle. Free Radic Res 2014; 48:1179-89. [DOI: 10.3109/10715762.2014.937341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Venditti P, Napolitano G, Barone D, Di Meo S. Effect of training and vitamin E administration on rat liver oxidative metabolism. Free Radic Res 2013; 48:322-32. [DOI: 10.3109/10715762.2013.867959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Ahmad J, Loughrey MB, Donnelly D, Ranaghan L, Shah R, Napolitano G, Kennedy AJ. Prognostic value of added stratification of circumferential resection margin status in oesophageal carcinoma. Histopathology 2013; 62:752-763. [DOI: 10.1111/his.12078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jawad Ahmad
- Royal Victoria Hospital/Belfast Health and Social Care Trust; Belfast
| | | | - David Donnelly
- Centre for Public Health; Mulhouse Building; Belfast; UK
| | - Lisa Ranaghan
- Centre for Public Health; Mulhouse Building; Belfast; UK
| | - Rajeev Shah
- Royal Victoria Hospital/Belfast Health and Social Care Trust; Belfast
| | | | - Andrew J Kennedy
- Royal Victoria Hospital/Belfast Health and Social Care Trust; Belfast
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Di Blasio A, Bucci I, Napolitano G, Melanzi S, Izzicupo P, Di Donato F, Tonizzo C, D'Angelo E, Ricci G, Ripari P. Characteristics of spontaneous physical activity and executive functions in postmenopause. Minerva Med 2013; 104:61-74. [PMID: 23392539] [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: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
AIM Executive functions are susceptible to age-related changes, and menopause has also been shown to be linked with their decline. The aim of the present study was to investigate the variables related to executive functions in postmenopausal women not involved in controlled dietary and physical exercise programs and without hormone-replacement therapy. METHODS Fifty-seven women (58.39 ±4.16 yr) were investigated for their medical history, blood lipids, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), body composition, blood pressure, executive functions (Digit Span and Trail Making tests), maximal aerobic capacity, dietary habits, and spontaneous physical activity. RESULTS Cluster analysis performed on the basal data of the Digit Span scores and Trail Making tests identified two subgroups: Group A (N.=24) that showed better executive functions than Group B (N.=33). Although these subgroups differed across several variables of body composition, plasma lipids, dietary habits, spontaneous physical activity, aerobic fitness, and insulin resistance, logistic regression models showed B10m/die as the only predictive variable for subgroup membership. CONCLUSION In the absence of a physical exercise program, the knowledge of how spontaneous physical activity is organized (B10m/die) is important for executive functions of post-menopausal women. It is the specific moderate to intense physical activity characteristic of B10m/die, rather than generic physical activity, that seems to determine the maintenance or attainment of cognitive health through body movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Blasio
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University and Aging Research Centre, Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
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Di Blasio A, Bucci I, Ripari P, Giuliani C, Izzicupo P, Di Donato F, D'Angelo E, Napolitano G. Lifestyle and high density lipoprotein cholesterol in postmenopause. Climacteric 2013; 17:37-47. [PMID: 23249128 DOI: 10.3109/13697137.2012.758700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Menopause is characterized by hormonal and metabolic changes. These are linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, for which low blood plasma levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are an independent risk factor. The present study investigated variables linked with basal plasma HDL cholesterol levels and the effects of aerobic training, on their variations, in 40 postmenopausal women. METHODS We assessed body composition, dietary habits and maximal aerobic capacity of participants. Characteristics of daily physical activity and plasma lipoproteins were measured. The women walked on 4 days/week, for 14 weeks, at moderate intensity, and they were grouped according to the resulting tertiles of basal plasma HDL cholesterol levels. RESULTS Logistic regression analysis showed that waist-to-hip ratio and number of daily bouts of moderate-intensity physical activity, held for at least 10 consecutive minutes (B10m/day), are predictive variables of basal plasma HDL cholesterol levels. After the training period, the first and second tertiles increased plasma HDL cholesterol levels, while the third tertile decreased plasma HDL cholesterol levels. The tertiles showed different remodelling of spontaneous physical activity: the third tertile reduced B10m/day, while the others did not. CONCLUSIONS This study provides knowledge about the relationships of plasma HDL cholesterol levels with characteristics of physical activity. Furthermore, it shows that physical exercise engagement can result in negative compensation of spontaneous physical activity that could counteract or reduce the positive effects of the aerobic training on plasma HDL cholesterol levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Blasio
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University and Aging Research Centre , Ce.S.I. , Chieti-Pescara
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Venditti P, Napolitano G, Di Stefano L, Chiellini G, Zucchi R, Scanlan TS, Di Meo S. Effects of the thyroid hormone derivatives 3-iodothyronamine and thyronamine on rat liver oxidative capacity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 341:55-62. [PMID: 21664427 PMCID: PMC5297583 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2010] [Revised: 05/11/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Thyronamines T(0)AM and T(1)AM are naturally occurring decarboxylated thyroid hormone derivatives. Their in vivo administration induces effects opposite to those induced by thyroid hormone, including lowering of body temperature. Since the mitochondrial energy-transduction apparatus is known to be a potential target of thyroid hormone and its derivatives, we investigated the in vitro effects of T(0)AM and T(1)AM on the rates of O(2) consumption and H(2)O(2) release by rat liver mitochondria. Hypothyroid animals were used because of the low levels of endogenous thyronamines. We found that both compounds are able to reduce mitochondrial O(2) consumption and increase H(2)O(2) release. The observed changes could be explained by a partial block, operated by thyronamines, at a site located near the site of action of antimycin A. This hypothesis was confirmed by the observation that thyronamines reduced the activity of Complex III where the site of antimycin action is located. Because thyronamines exerted their effects at concentrations comparable to those found in hepatic tissue, it is conceivable that they can affect in vivo mitochondrial O(2) consumption and H(2)O(2) production acting as modulators of thyroid hormone action.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Venditti
- Dipartimento delle Scienze Biologiche, Sezione di Fisiologia, Università di Napoli, I-80134 Napoli, Italy.
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Venditti P, Napolitano G, Di Stefano L, Agnisola C, Di Meo S. Effect of vitamin E administration on response to ischaemia-reperfusion of hearts from cold-exposed rats. Exp Physiol 2011; 96:635-46. [DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2011.058289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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: 11/08/2022]
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Di Blasio A, Di Donato F, D'Angelo E, Berchicci M, Gallina S, Ripari P, Napolitano G. [Determinants of short-term memory: is there a difference between young adults and postmenopausal women?]. Minerva Med 2010; 101:295-303. [PMID: 21048551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
AIM The literature indicates that several variables are influencing cognitive health. The aim of the study was to investigate the main determinants of the short-term memory among anthropometric, dietary and performance variables in a sample of healthy women. The role played by the age was also investigated. METHODS Forty-five healthy overweight women were recruited through general physicians: 23 were young adults (24.63±4.17 years) and 22 were postmenopausal (53.30±2.95 years). Overweight condition was assessed according to the age-adjusted reference values. Participants were analyzed for Digit Span, blood pressure, body composition, aerobic fitness and dietary habits. RESULTS Young adults and postmenopausal women did not differ either in Digit Span or in dietary habits. In postmenopausal women Digit Span was positively correlated with body weight, body mass index, body fat, waist circumference and daily intake of vitamin D. Linear regression model indicated vitamin D as the only significant predictor variable of Digit Span. In young adults Digit Span had no correlations with the others investigated variables. CONCLUSION In postmenopause, vitamin D daily intake is important not only for skeletal, but also for cognitive health. Even though young adults and post-menopausal women did not differ for health status, short-term memory in young adulthood seems to be differently linked with the investigated variables than during post-menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Blasio
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Movimento Umano, Università G. d'Annunzio, Chieti, Italia.
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Napolitano G, Fox C, Middleton R, Connolly D. Pattern-based information extraction from pathology reports for cancer registration. Cancer Causes Control 2010; 21:1887-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s10552-010-9616-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2010] [Accepted: 07/06/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Di Blasio A, Di Donato F, Mastrodicasa M, Fabrizio N, Di Renzo D, Napolitano G, Petrella V, Gallina S, Ripari P. Effects of the time of day of walking on dietary behaviour, body composition and aerobic fitness in post-menopausal women. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2010; 50:196-201. [PMID: 20585298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM Post-menopause is linked to an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Physical exercise and healthy dietary habits are normally suggested to enhance health. The aim of this study was to verify whether the time of day of walking had different effects on both spontaneous dietary intake and body composition modification in overweight and sedentary post-menopausal women. METHODS Forty-two sedentary post-menopausal women (53.46+/-3.32 yrs) were recruited. Thirty-three completed the study: 29 were suitable for statistical analysis. Of those, 14 walked in the morning (MG) and 15 in the early evening (EG). Body composition, dietary habits and predicted VO2max were investigated. Food intake was analysed for energy, macronutrients and daily distribution. RESULTS The Mann-Whitney test showed that according to the time of day of walking there were different fat mass (FM) reductions and dietary behaviour responses. EG reduced FM greater than MG and showed a major increase in morning energy intake (EI). Sub-samples did not differ in total EI, daily macronutrient portioning and daily meals variations. The variation of FM was correlated with that of proteins (r=-0.352), morning EI (r=-0.367) and aerobic performance (r=0.369). Both MG and EG improved their aerobic performance. CONCLUSION The positive effects of walking on health could be optimised by its evening execution because it could also be linked to spontaneous dietary habit modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Di Blasio
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, G. d'Annunzio University, Chieti, Italy.
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Venditti P, Chiellini G, Di Stefano L, Napolitano G, Zucchi R, Columbano A, Scanlan TS, Di Meo S. The TRbeta-selective agonist, GC-1, stimulates mitochondrial oxidative processes to a lesser extent than triiodothyronine. J Endocrinol 2010; 205:279-89. [PMID: 20360308 DOI: 10.1677/joe-10-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Specific tissue responses to thyroid hormone are mediated by the hormone binding to two subtypes of nuclear receptors, TRalpha and TRbeta. We investigated the relationship between TRbeta activation and liver oxidative metabolism in hypothyroid rats treated with equimolar doses of triiodothyronine (T(3)) and GC-1, a TRbeta agonist. T(3) treatment produces increases in O(2) consumption and H(2)O(2) production higher than those elicited by GC-1. The greater effects of T(3) on oxidative processes are linked to the higher hormonal stimulation of the content of respiratory chain components including autoxidizable electron carriers as demonstrated by the measurement of activities of respiratory complexes and H(2)O(2) generation in the presence of respiratory inhibitors. It is conceivable that these differential effects are dependent on the inability of GC-1 to stimulate TRalpha receptors that are likely involved in the expression of some components of the respiratory chain. The greater increases in reactive oxygen species production and susceptibility to oxidants exhibited by mitochondria from T(3)-treated rats are consistent with their higher lipid and protein oxidative damage and lower resistance to Ca(2)(+) load. The T(3) and GC-1 effects on the expression levels of nuclear respiratory factor-1 and -2 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1alpha suggest the involvement of respiratory factors in the agonist-linked changes in mitochondrial respiratory capacities and H(2)O(2) production.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Venditti
- Dipartimento delle Scienze Biologiche, Sezione di Fisiologia, Università di Napoli Federico II, Via Mezzocannone 8, I-80134 Napoli, Italy.
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Bradley MC, Hughes CM, Cantwell MM, Napolitano G, Murray LJ. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pancreatic cancer risk: a nested case-control study. Br J Cancer 2010; 102:1415-21. [PMID: 20372155 PMCID: PMC2865751 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use has been linked with pancreatic cancer risk; however, findings from epidemiological studies are inconsistent. Methods: A nested case–control study was conducted within the UK General Practice Research Database. Cases (n=1141) had a diagnosis of primary cancer of the exocrine pancreas between January 1995 and June 2006. Controls (n=7954) were matched with each case on general practice site, sex and year of birth. Conditional logistic regression analyses were used to generate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) associated with NSAID use compared with non-use. Results: Any use of NSAID in the 5 years before the index date or since entry into the database (excluding the year before diagnosis) was not associated with risk of pancreatic cancer; OR 0.96 (95% CI, 0.84–1.10) and 1.03 (95% CI 0.89–1.19), respectively. Exposure to NSAIDs for > 773 days, in the 5 years pre-diagnosis, was associated with a reduced risk of pancreatic cancer OR 0.78 (95%CI 0.62–0.97). There was evidence of reduced pancreatic cancer risk with long-term use (5 years or more) of lower doses of NSAIDs OR 0.70 (95% CI 0.49–0.99). Conclusion: Long-term exposure to NSAIDs may be associated with a reduction in risk of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Bradley
- Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research Group, Centre for Public Health, Queen's University, Mulhouse Building, Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast BT12 6BJ, Northern Ireland, UK
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Hill S, Milla PJ, Ciampolillo A, Napolitano G, Bottazzo GF, Mirakian R. LFA-1 and ICAM-1 Molecule Expression in Jejunal Mucosa from Children with Autoimmune Enteropathy. Autoimmunity 2009; 13:233-41. [PMID: 1361864 DOI: 10.3109/08916939209004829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The expression of adhesion molecules by cells of the small intestinal mucosa was compared in gut biopsies from children with autoimmune small intestinal enteropathy and normal controls and related to HLA-DR expression by the same tissue. Jejunal biopsies were stained by IFL with monoclonal antibodies to LFA-1 (TS1/22 and CD11a/25.3.1) and ICAM-1 (RR1/1 and 84H10) molecules. LFA-1 and ICAM-1 positive cells were observed in the lamina propria in all cases and the counts were increased in autoimmune enteropathy compared with controls. In addition, in 4 of 7 cases of autoimmune enteropathy crypt enterocytes were positives for ICAM-1 when stained with RR1/1 and 3 of the 4 were also positive for LFA-1 when stained with both LFA-1 reagents. We speculate on the role of adhesion molecule expression in autoimmune enteropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hill
- Department of Child Health, Institute of Child Health, London
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Brunese L, Ciccarelli R, Fucili S, Romeo A, Napolitano G, D'Auria V, Collina A, Califano L, Cappabianca S, Sodano A. Pleomorphic adenoma of parotid gland: delayed enhancement on computed tomography. Dentomaxillofac Radiol 2009; 37:464-9. [PMID: 19033432 DOI: 10.1259/dmfr/79964183] [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: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy of multiphasic CT with 8 min delayed acquisition in the differential diagnosis between pleomorphic adenomas and other parotid neoplasias. METHODS Between January 2004 and April 2007, 62 patients with parotid enlargement were enrolled in this prospective study. The CT protocol applied included the following four acquisitions: without contrast medium and 30 s, 120 s and 8 min after intravenous injection of contrast medium. We considered the degree of the enhancement of the lesions (rated as "low", "moderate" and "strong") and the degree of enhancement homogeneity (rated as "not homogeneous", "mildly homogeneous" and "uniform"). These parameters were compared with Hounsfield values of the lesions computed in each phase. The diagnosis was confirmed in all patients after surgery. RESULTS On histological examination, 36 tumours were classified as pleomorphic adenomas and 26 as non-pleomorphic adenomas. On the basis of a statistical comparison, the third phase proved to be the most effective in the differential diagnosis between pleomorphic adenoma and non-pleomorphic adenomas, both for the assessment of the degree of the enhancement (in this phase, strong enhancement showed a sensitivity of 61.11%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 100% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 53.33%) and, above all, for the homogeneity of the enhancement (in this phase, indeed, uniform enhancement showed sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 100%). CONCLUSIONS Our results seem to indicate that multiphasic CT with 8 min delayed acquisition allows the differential diagnosis between pleomorphic adenomas and other parotid neoplasias.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Brunese
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Molise, Contrada Tappino, Campobasso, Molise 86100, Italy.
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Connolly D, Black A, Murray LJ, Napolitano G, Gavin A, Keane PF. Methods of Calculating Prostate-Specific Antigen Velocity. Eur Urol 2007; 52:1044-50. [PMID: 17197071 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2006.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2006] [Accepted: 12/11/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Numerous methods of calculating PSA velocity (PSAV) are used and have the potential to produce differing PSAV results from the same PSA data. We calculated PSAV using three common methods and compared differences between the methods and their predictive value for prostate cancer diagnosis. METHODS From a population-based database of PSA results, men with initial PSA<10.0 ng/ml and a subsequent diagnosis of prostate cancer or benign histology were identified. Those with > or =3 PSA tests before diagnosis carried out over a minimum of 18 mo were included. PSAV was calculated by using three methods: The differences between the methods and test characteristics of each method were compared. RESULTS Of the 2204 men included, 716 (32.5%) were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 1488 (67.5%) benign histology. PSAV differed markedly in each method of calculation. The LR and FL methods had similar predictive values, which were higher than the AE method. There was strong agreement for cancer diagnosis between LR and FL (kappa=0.85), with weaker agreement between LR/AE and FL/AE (kappa=0.69 and 0.66, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Methods used to calculate PSAV using the same PSA data can produce markedly different results. Linear regression should be the method of choice for calculating PSAV. Using first and last PSA values only may be adequate for everyday clinical use, as long as measurements are separated by a sufficiently long time period.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Connolly
- Department of Urology, Belfast City Hospital, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this work was to evaluate the safeguards implemented by surgical trainees to protect the confidentiality of electronic patient data through a structured questionnaire sent to Northern Ireland surgical trainees. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS A group of 32 basic and higher surgical trainees attending a meeting of the Northern Ireland Association of Surgeons-in-Training were invited to complete a questionnaire regarding their computer use, UK Data Protection Act, 1988 registration and electronic data confidentiality practices. RESULTS Of these 32 trainees, 29 returned completed questionnaires of whom 26 trainees regularly stored sensitive patient data for audit or research purposes on a computer. Only one person was registered under the Data Protection Act, 1988. Of the computers used to store and analyse sensitive data, only 3 of 14 desktops, 8 of 19 laptops and 3 of 14 hand-held computers forced a password logon. Of the 29 trainees, 16 used the same password for all machines, and 25 of 27 passwords were less than 8 characters long. Two respondents declined to reveal details of their secure passwords. Half of all trainees had never adjusted their internet security settings, despite all 14 desktops, 16 of 19 laptops and 5 of 14 hand-helds being routinely connected to the internet. Of the 29 trainees, 28 never encrypted their sensitive data files. Ten trainees had sent unencrypted sensitive patient data over the internet, using a non-secure server. CONCLUSIONS Electronic data confidentiality practices amongst Northern Ireland surgical trainees are unsafe. Simple practical measures to safeguard confidentiality are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian J Mole
- Department of Surgery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
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Acierno D, Amendola E, Callegaro G, Napolitano G. Innovative Poly(Butylene Terephthalate) Based Nanocomposites: a Preliminary Investigation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1002/masy.200750114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Giuliani C, Saji M, Bucci I, Fiore G, Liberatore M, Singer DS, Monaco F, Kohn LD, Napolitano G. Transcriptional regulation of major histocompatibility complex class I gene by insulin and IGF-I in FRTL-5 thyroid cells. J Endocrinol 2006; 189:605-15. [PMID: 16731791 DOI: 10.1677/joe.1.06486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Increased major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I gene expression in nonimmune cell 'target tissues' involved in organ-specific diseases may be important in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. This possibility in part evolves from studies of cultured thyrocytes where properties appear relevant to the development of thyroid autoimmune disease. In FRTL-5 rat thyroid cells in continuous culture, hormones and growth factors that regulate cell growth and function specifically decrease MHC class I gene expression. We hypothesized that this could reflect a mechanism to preserve self-tolerance and prevent autoimmune disease. The mechanisms of action of some of these hormones, namely TSH and hydrocortisone, have been already characterized. In this report, we show that IGF-I transcriptionally downregulates MHC class I gene expression and that its action is similar to that of insulin. The two hormones have a complex effect on the promoter of the MHC class I gene, PD1. In fact, they decrease the full promoter activity, but upregulate the activity of deleted mutants that have lost an upstream, tissue-specific regulatory region but still retain the enhancer A region. We show that insulin/IGF-I promotes the interactions of the p50/p65 subunits of NF-kappaB and AP-1 family members with these two regions, and that the tissue-specific region acts as a dominant silencer element on insulin/IGF-I regulation of promoter activity. These observations may be important to understand how MHC class I gene transcription is regulated in the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Giuliani
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, University G D'Annunzio and Aging Research Center, Ce.S.I., Gabriele D'Annunzio University Foundation, Campus Universitario, via Colle dell'Ara, 66013 Chieti, Italy.
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Napolitano G, Palka G, Grimaldi S, Giuliani C, Laglia G, Calabrese G, Satta MA, Neri G, Monaco F. Growth delay in Down syndrome and zinc sulphate supplementation. Am J Med Genet Suppl 2005; 7:63-5. [PMID: 2149976 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.1320370711] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Children affected with Down syndrome (DS) show deficient growth, immunodeficiency--especially concerning the T-cell population--and low plasma zinc levels. New growth charts have been recently proposed, and zinc supplementation to the diet has been reported to improve transiently the efficiency of the immune system. The aim of this study was to evaluate if in DS children zinc sulphate therapy could improve the growth rate and affect some endocrine parameters. We studied 22 patients (16 males and 6 females) who received zinc sulphate for 6 to 9 months. Fifteen of 22 patients studied reached a higher centile in their growth rate, whereas the remaining seven showed no change, at least to date. The average height velocity changed from 23.84 +/- 7.98 mm/6 months to 40.80 +/- 7.68 mm/6 months. Growth hormone serum level was 5.94 +/- 4.89 ng/ml compared with 7.49 +/- 6.75 ng/ml before and after therapy, respectively. Somatomedin serum level was 160.27 +/- 68.88 mU/ml and 205 +/- 124.07 mU/ml before and after therapy, respectively. In conclusion, zinc sulphate therapy of patients with DS affects not only the immune system, as previously reported, but can also accelerate growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Napolitano
- Chair of Endocrinology, University G. D'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
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Annese V, Piepoli A, Latiano A, Lombardi G, Napolitano G, Caruso N, Cocchiara E, Accadia L, Perri F, Andriulli A. HLA-DRB1 alleles may influence disease phenotype in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a critical reappraisal with review of the literature. Dis Colon Rectum 2005; 48:57-64; discussion 64-5. [PMID: 15690658 DOI: 10.1007/s10350-004-0747-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The HLA region has been implicated in determining the disease susceptibility or the clinical phenotype of inflammatory bowel disease. The aim of this study was to assess the relation between HLA-DRB1 alleles with the clinical features of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and the presence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic and anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies. METHODS Blood samples were obtained from 102 Crohn's disease patients, 114 ulcerative colitis patients, and 264 unrelated healthy controls. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmics were detected by a standard immunofluorescence method, and anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiaes were examined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay immunoglobulin G/immunoglobulin A commercial assay. HLA-DRB1 typing of 26 alleles was performed by polymerase chain reaction sequence-specific primes. Patients were phenotyped according to gender, disease location, extent, and behavior, surgical resection, need of steroid, and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic/anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae status. RESULTS As a whole, after applying Bonferroni's correction for multiple comparisons, no significant association of HLA-DRB1 alleles with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis was found. After stratifying HLA-DRB1 alleles by clinical phenotypes of patients with ulcerative colitis, an excess of DRB1*1309*1320*1325*1329 allele (DR13) was found in conjunction with pancolitis (P < 0.0001), surgical resection (P < 0.0003), and extraintestinal manifestations (P < 0.0001). In Crohn's disease patients, an excess of DRB1*0304*0305*0307*0309 allele (DR3) was found in those with colonic disease (P < 0.0001) and patients with extraintestinal manifestations (P = 0.0003). This statistical association, however, emerged in only 3 of 114 patients with ulcerative colitis and in 3 of 102 patients with Crohn's disease. We found no association with the presence of anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae or anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic. CONCLUSIONS Some clinical features of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis may be influenced by specific HLA-DR alleles; in particular, in ulcerative colitis some alleles appear to segregate with more aggressive disease, whereas in Crohn's disease different alleles cosegregate in patients with colonic disease and extraintestinal manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Annese
- Department of Internal Medicine, Unit of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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Annese V, Piepoli A, Perri F, Lombardi G, Latiano A, Napolitano G, Corritore G, Vandewalle P, Poulain D, Colombel JF, Andriulli A. Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannan antibodies in inflammatory bowel disease: comparison of different assays and correlation with clinical features. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2004; 20:1143-52. [PMID: 15569117 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2004.02258.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannan antibodies have been proposed as a new serological marker associated with Crohn's disease. However, their clinical value is still unclear; furthermore, a standardization of anti-S. cerevisiae mannan measurements is lacking. AIM In this study, we aimed to assess the correlation between anti-S. cerevisiae mannan detection and specific clinical features in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Moreover, we tested the concordance of four different anti-S. cerevisiae mannan assays. MATERIALS AND METHODS Serum samples from 196 patients with Crohn's disease, 197 patients with ulcerative colitis and 100 unrelated healthy controls were tested for anti-S. cerevisiae mannan with a standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method (Lille) by one of the authors (VP). Subsequently, 60 randomly selected serum samples (27 Crohn's disease, 28 ulcerative colitis and five healthy controls) were tested for anti-S. cerevisiae mannan with three different commercial kits. RESULTS With the Lille assay, anti-S. cerevisiae mannan were detected in 100 of 196 patients with Crohn's disease (51%; P < 0.0001 vs. controls), 32 of 197 patients with ulcerative colitis (16%; P < 0.02 vs. controls), and six of 100 controls (6%). No correlation between presence of anti-S. cerevisiae mannan and specific clinical features was found in both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease patients. The percentages of anti-S. cerevisiae mannan detected with four different assays ranged from 28 (Bouty) up to 43% (Inova), but these differences did not reach statistical significance. The concordance rate of anti-S. cerevisiae mannan detection in the four assays was very low (11 concordant results of 60 samples, 18.3%) (k = 0.15). No improvement of the concordance rate was obtained by modifying the suggested cut-off values (k = 0.20). CONCLUSION In this study, we confirm that anti-S. cerevisiae mannan are significantly more frequent in Crohn's disease patients compared with ulcerative colitis patients (P < 0.0001) and controls. However, no correlation with clinical features was found in both ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The low prevalence of anti-S. cerevisiae mannan, at least in our population, and the low concordance rate between different assays, makes the clinical role of this marker questionable.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Annese
- Divisione di Gastroenterologia, Ospedale CSS-IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
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Abstract
Although it is well known that hypoxemia induces pulmonary vasoconstriction and vascular remodeling, due to the proliferation of both vascular smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts, the effects of hypoxemia on airway smooth muscle cells are not well characterized. The present study was designed to assess the in vitro effects of hypoxia (1 or 3% O(2)) on rat airway smooth muscle cell growth and response to mitogens (PDGF and 5-HT). Cell growth was assessed by cell counting and cell cycle analysis. Compared with normoxia (21% O(2)), there was a 42.2% increase in the rate of proliferation of cells exposed to 3% O(2) (72 h, P = 0.006), as well as an enhanced response to PDGF (13.9% increase; P = 0.023) and to 5-HT (17.2% increase; P = 0.039). Exposure to 1% O(2) (72 h) decreased cell proliferation by 21.0% (P = 0.017) and reduced the increase in cell proliferation induced by PGDF and 5-HT by 16.2 and 15.7%, respectively (P = 0.019 and P = 0.011). A significant inhibition in hypoxia-induced cell proliferation was observed after the administration of bisindolylmaleimide GF-109203X (a specific PKC inhibitor) or downregulation of PKC with PMA. Pretreatment with GF-109203X decreased proliferation by 21.5% (P = 0.004) and PMA by 31.5% (P = 0.005). These results show that hypoxia induces airway smooth muscle cell proliferation, which is at least partially dependent on PKC activation. They suggest that hypoxia could contribute to airway remodeling in patients suffering from chronic, severe respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cogo
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories and Montreal Chest Institute Research Center, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H2X 2P2
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Martino A, La Rocca F, Romagnuolo G, Di Muria A, Festa P, Napolitano G, Martino R, Chianese F. [Primary anastomosis in the neoplastic colonic obstruction]. Ann Ital Chir 2002; 73:599-602; discussion 602-3. [PMID: 12820583] [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: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
The authors report their own experience on the treatment of large bowel obstruction caused by a neoplastic stenosis. During a 36-month period 110 operations for emergency large bowel obstructions were performed: 59 (53.6%) underwent primary anastomosis without colostomy (28 right colectomy, 16 left colectomy, 9 sub-total and 6 total colectomy). Total group post-operative mortality was 2.9% as a result of cardio-pulmonary complications. Morbidity was 19.8%, included a 3% of anastomotic leak underwent surgical treatment. Our results suggest that resection and primary anastomosis can be performed with acceptable morbidity and mortality in a high proportion of cases of emergency large bowel obstructions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martino
- A.O.R.N. A. Cardarelli, Dipartimento Emergenza Accettazione, Napoli
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Martino A, Festa P, La Rocca F, Romagnuolo G, Bartone G, Di Muria A, Napolitano G, De Sena G, Martino R, Nappi O. [Abdominal lymphoma with abscess and thoracic perforation: en-bloc resection]. Ann Ital Chir 2002; 73:445-50. [PMID: 12661236] [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: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
The authors compare a rare case of acute onset Gastric Lymphoma with that present in the literature. The patient, a white 67 year-old man, was admitted to hospital in severe general condition. On CT scan an opacity of the pleura and a subtotal collapse of the left lung associated with a mass infiltrating the diaphragm, the gastric fundus and pancreas were seen. After 48 hours from the admission an operation was performed. The abdominal mass infiltrating the stomach, the spleen and the left thorax was resected en-bloc by laparotomy. A Boulau drainage was inserted. The histology showed an high malignant, diffused, big cell lymphoma. The patient was discharged 23 days later after a regular postoperative course. Surgery can be necessary, sometime curative in gastric lymphomas while long term result and quality of life could be improved by chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martino
- Unita Operativa Complessa di Chirurgia del Dea, Dipartimento di Emergenza Accettazione, Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale A. Cardarelli, Napoli
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Annese V, Piepoli A, Andriulli A, Latiano A, Napolitano G, Li HH, Forabosco P, Devoto M. Association of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis with haplotypes of the MLH1 gene in Italian inflammatory bowel disease patients. J Med Genet 2002; 39:332-4. [PMID: 12011151 PMCID: PMC1735109 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.39.5.332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Annese V, Andreoli A, Astegiano M, Campieri M, Caprilli R, Cucchiara S, D'Incà R, Giaccari S, Iaquinto G, Lombardi G, Napolitano G, Pera A, Riegler G, Valpiani D, Andriulli A. Clinical features in familial cases of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis in Italy: a GISC study. Italian Study Group for the Disease of Colon and Rectum. Am J Gastroenterol 2001; 96:2939-45. [PMID: 11693330 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2001.04685.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous studies have reported genetic anticipation, genomic imprinting, and phenotypic concordance of some clinical features in familial cases of Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The aim of our study was to investigate the phenotypic features of affected members in a large sample of CD and UC Italian families. METHODS In a multicenter study, CD and UC families were recruited. Affected members were questioned about date of birth, gender, age at onset of symptoms and at diagnosis, location and extension of disease, occurrence of extraintestinal manifestations, use of steroids and/or of immunosuppressive drugs, need for resective surgery, and number of relapses per year (< 1 yr or > or = 1 yr). Statistical analysis was performed with chi2, Fisher's, Mann-Whitney U, and binomial probability tests, when appropriate. RESULTS A total of 128 families with 270 affected members were studied: 35 were CD, 64 UC, and 29 mixed families (when UC and CD affected different members). In 99 of 128 families (77%), the diagnosis was concordant. In CD families, a high concordance for localization (46%), extraintestinal manifestations (67%), need for steroids (77%), need for immunosuppressive drugs (100%), need for surgery (29%), and relapse rate (36%) was found. In UC families, a high concordance for disease extension (33%), need for steroids (47%), and relapse rate (34%) was disclosed. A higher than expected concordance for ileal localization (p < 0.4) in CD families and extensive colitis (p < 0.05) in UC families was demonstrated. A generation difference of 15-20 yr in mean ages at onset of symptoms and at diagnosis was recorded. No features of more aggressive disease in subsequent generations and no differences in gender of transmitting parents and relatives were found. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows a high rate of concordance for diagnosis and clinical features in UC and, especially, CD families. The disease occurred 15-20 yr earlier than in previous generations without features of increased severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Annese
- Divisione di Gastroenterologia, Ospedale CSS-IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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Abstract
The elongation phase of eukaryotic transcription by RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) is an important target for regulation of gene expression. An interplay of positive and negative elongation factors determines the elongation activity of RNAPII in different promoters. The phosphorylation status of the carboxyl-terminal-domain (CTD) of the larger subunit of RNAPII appears to be the regulatory focus of different factors regulating mRNA processivity. The emerging model of the transcription cycle proposes that the phosphorylation state of the CTD is dynamic during elongation with different forms predominating at different stages of transcription. Shortly after initiation RNA polymerase II comes under the control of negative elongation factors and enters abortive elongation. Escape from the action of these negative controls requires the action of at least one positive elongation factor identified in the P-TEFb complex composed of the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase CDK9 and its regulatory subunit cyclin T. Finally, the requirement of CTD phosphatase activity, identified in the FCP1 protein, has been invoked as necessary to recycle the hypophosphorylated form of the RNA polymerase II competent to reinitiate the transcription cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Majello
- Department of Genetics, General and Molecular Biology, University of Naples Federico II, and I.I.G.B, CNR, Naples, Italy.
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Giuliani C, Napolitano G, Bucci I, Montani V, Monaco F. [Nf-kB transcription factor: role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic diseases and therapy implications]. Clin Ter 2001; 152:249-53. [PMID: 11725618] [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: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Description of the involvement of the transcription factor NF-kB in inflammatory, autoimmune and neoplastic processes. Clinical implications from basic research. DESIGN Review of the most significant data reported in the literature and personal publications. RESULTS NF-kB is an ubiquitous transcription factor member of the proto-oncogene family rel. NF-kB regulates the expression of several genes involved in inflammatory and immune responses. The classical activated form of NF-kB consists of the p50/p65 heterodimer, different dimers may be formed with members of rel, AP1, steroid hormones receptors family. Many studies suggest that NF-kB should be considered as an important mechanisms of inflammatory processes and autoimmune diseases. Many important anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants inhibit NF-kB. Several observations have suggested a role of the inappropriate activation of NF-kB in cell proliferation, transformation, and tumor development, mainly lymphomas. Conversely, it has been proposed that the activation of NF-kB in immune cells may contribute to anti-tumor immunity. CONCLUSIONS NF-kB is an optimal target of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppresant therapies. Molecular studies on NF-kB are very important to understand the pathogenesis of inflammatory, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases, and to identify new drugs that inhibit NF-kB activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Giuliani
- Sezione di Endocrinologia, Dipartimento di Medicina e Scienze dell'invecchiamento, Università degli Studi G. D'Annunzio, Chieti, Italia
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Kohn LD, Napolitano G, Singer DS, Molteni M, Scorza R, Shimojo N, Kohno Y, Mozes E, Nakazato M, Ulianich L, Chung HK, Matoba H, Saunier B, Suzuki K, Schuppert F, Saji M. Graves' disease: a host defense mechanism gone awry. Int Rev Immunol 2001; 19:633-64. [PMID: 11129119 DOI: 10.3109/08830180009088516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [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: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
In this report we summarize evidence to support a model for the development of Graves' disease. The model suggests that Graves' disease is initiated by an insult to the thyrocyte in an individual with a normal immune system. The insult, infectious or otherwise, causes double strand DNA or RNA to enter the cytoplasm of the cell. This causes abnormal expression of major histocompatibility (MHC) class I as a dominant feature, but also aberrant expression of MHC class II, as well as changes in genes or gene products needed for the thyrocyte to become an antigen presenting cell (APC). These include increased expression of proteasome processing proteins (LMP2), transporters of antigen peptides (TAP), invariant chain (Ii), HLA-DM, and the co-stimulatory molecule, B7, as well as STAT and NF-kappaB activation. A critical factor in these changes is the loss of normal negative regulation of MHC class I, class II, and thyrotropin receptor (TSHR) gene expression, which is necessary to maintain self-tolerance during the normal changes in gene expression involved in hormonally-increased growth and function of the cell. Self-tolerance to the TSHR is maintained in normals because there is a population of CD8- cells which normally suppresses a population of CD4+ cells that can interact with the TSHR if thyrocytes become APCs. This is a host self-defense mechanism that we hypothesize leads to autoimmune disease in persons, for example, with a specific viral infection, a genetic predisposition, or even, possibly, a TSHR polymorphism. The model is suggested to be important to explain the development of other autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus or diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- L D Kohn
- Cell Regulation Section, Metabolic Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To asses the role of the RNAPII carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) phosphatase FCP1 on HIV-1 Tat-mediated transactivation. DESIGN Construction of expression vectors encoding FCP1 phosphatase and analysis of their functions on Tat activity. METHODS Basal and Tat-mediated transactivation of HIV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR)-driven transcription was compared, by transient transfections, in the presence of FCP1 phosphatase. Protein interactions were analysed by in vitro binding assays. RESULTS FCP1 specifically and effectively represses Tat transactivation but not HIV-1 LTR-basal transcription. Protein interaction assays demonstrated that FCP1 specifically and directly binds Tat in vitro. CONCLUSION The specific and efficient inhibitory function of FCP1 highlights the important role of this CTD-phosphatase in Tat-mediated transactivation, and it suggests that FCP1 might represent a specific target for modulation of Tat activity in infected cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Licciardo
- Department of Genetics, Molecular and General Biology, University of Naples Federico II and the International Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, Italy
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Bucci I, Napolitano G, Giuliani C, Lio S, Minnucci A, Monaco F, Di Giacomo F, Calabrese G, Palka G, Sabatino G. Concerns about using Zn supplementation in Down's syndrome (DS) children. Biol Trace Elem Res 2001; 82:273-5. [PMID: 11697775 DOI: 10.1385/bter:82:1-3:273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Napolitano G, Majello B, Licciardo P, Giordano A, Lania L. Transcriptional activity of positive transcription elongation factor b kinase in vivo requires the C-terminal domain of RNA polymerase II. Gene 2000; 254:139-45. [PMID: 10974544 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1119(00)00278-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Phosphorylation of the carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) is an important step in transcription and the positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) has been proposed to facilitate elongation at many genes. The P-TEFb contains a catalytic subunit (Cdk9) that, in association with a cyclin subunit (cyclinT1), has the ability to phosphorylate the CTD substrate in vitro. Here, we demonstrate that cyclinT1/Cdk9-mediated transcription requires CTD-containing RNAPII, suggesting that the CTD is the major target of the cyclinT1/Cdk9 complex in vivo. Unlike Cdk7 and Cdk8, two other cyclin-dependent kinases that are capable of phosphorylating the CTD in vitro, we found that only the Cdk9 activates gene expression in a catalysis-dependent manner. Finally, unlike cyclinT1 and T2, we found that the targeted recruitment to promoter DNA of cyclinK (a recently described alternative partner of Cdk9) does not stimulate transcription in vivo. Collectively, our data strongly indicate that the P-TEFb kinase subunits cyclinT/Cdk9 are specifically involved in transcription and the CTD domain of RNAPII is the major functional target of this complex in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Napolitano
- Department of Genetics, Molecular and General Biology, University of Naples 'Federico II' and International Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, CNR, Via Mezzocannone 8, 80134, Naples, Italy
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