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Carta MG, Testa G, Stocchino S, Finco G, Sancassiani F, Littera MT, Deidda MC, Ventriglio A, Bhugra D, Cossu G. The efficacy of heart rate variability biofeedback training on sleep disorders and impact of fibromyalgia: Results of a phase II randomized controlled trial. J Psychosom Res 2024; 181:111664. [PMID: 38652978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2024.111664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMs) is a chronic, musculoskeletal pain disorder characterized by sleep disturbances, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction. Heart rate variability biofeedback (HRV-BF) aiming to improve self-regulation and strengthen the parasympathetic nervous system has been shown to be effective in several pain syndromes, but its efficacy in FMs has not been adequately investigated. This Phase II trial aimed to assess the feasibility and preliminary measurement of the improvement induced by HRV-BF in FMs. METHODS Sixty-four patients with FMs were recruited. Patients were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (EG) or the control group (CG). The EG received 10 HRV-BF training sessions in addition to pharmacological standard therapy. The CG received standard therapies for 10 weeks. The FMs impact on daily life, sleep regularity, sense of coherence, depression symptoms and pain has been assessed as primary outcomes, quality of life as secondary. RESULT 23 (71.9%) of EG patients completed the intervention and 20 (62.5%) of the CG were re-evaluated at time T1. No side effects were reported. It was not found any statistical differences between groups over time in primary and secondary outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The HRV-BF intervention did not demonstrate efficacy in both primary and secondary outcomes. However, it is quite feasible in terms of drop-out rate and side effects. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to determine its actual efficacy. CLINICALTRIALS gov with code: NCT04121832.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giorgia Testa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Serena Stocchino
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Finco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Maria Teresa Littera
- Department of Pedagogy, Psychological Sciences and Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Deidda
- University Hospital of Cagliari, Center for Palliative Care and Pain Management, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Ventriglio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Dinesh Bhugra
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy.
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Sancassiani F, Cossu G, Cantone E, Romano F, Perra A, Urban A, Pinna S, Del Giacco S, Littera R, Firinu D, Chessa L, Tramontano E, Nardi AE, Carta MG. The Stability of Social and Behavioral Rhythms and Unexpected Low Rate of Relevant Depressive Symptoms in Old Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2005. [PMID: 38610769 PMCID: PMC11012795 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13072005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The disruption of social rhythms was found to be associated with depressive disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic; lower rates of these disorders were surprisingly found in old adults. The present study aims to verify the stability of social rhythms during lockdown in a sample of elderly people. Methods: Controlled cohort study (secondary analyses) of a previous randomized-controlled trial with the first evaluation in April 2019 (T0) and then 48 weeks later (T1) during the lockdown. The regulation of social and behavioral rhythms was measured through the Brief Social Rhythms Scale (BSRS); the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ9) was adopted to detect relevant depressive symptoms. Results: 93 elderlies (73.36 ± 4.97 years old, 50.5% females) were evaluated at T0 and T1. Neither the total score of BSRS nor any of the 10 items showed a statistically significant difference comparing the two survey periods. The frequency of relevant depressive symptoms was 5.3% at T0 and 6.4% at T1 (OR = 0.8, CI95% 0.2-24). Conclusions: Among elderlies who did not show an increased risk of depression during the lockdown, social and behavioral rhythms remained exceptionally stable during the same period. Considering previous evidence about rhythms dysregulation preceding depression, their stability may be considered a factor of resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Elisa Cantone
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, 00185 Roma, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Perra
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Antonio Urban
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
- University Hospital of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Samantha Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Roberto Littera
- Medical Genetics, “R. Binaghi” Hospital, 09126 Cagliari, Italy;
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), 09131 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Institute of Psychiatry-IPUB, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22290-140, Brazil;
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
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Zucca S, Nicora G, De Paoli F, Carta MG, Bellazzi R, Magni P, Rizzo E, Limongelli I. An AI-based approach driven by genotypes and phenotypes to uplift the diagnostic yield of genetic diseases. Hum Genet 2024:10.1007/s00439-023-02638-x. [PMID: 38520562 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-023-02638-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Identifying disease-causing variants in Rare Disease patients' genome is a challenging problem. To accomplish this task, we describe a machine learning framework, that we called "Suggested Diagnosis", whose aim is to prioritize genetic variants in an exome/genome based on the probability of being disease-causing. To do so, our method leverages standard guidelines for germline variant interpretation as defined by the American College of Human Genomics (ACMG) and the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP), inheritance information, phenotypic similarity, and variant quality. Starting from (1) the VCF file containing proband's variants, (2) the list of proband's phenotypes encoded in Human Phenotype Ontology terms, and optionally (3) the information about family members (if available), the "Suggested Diagnosis" ranks all the variants according to their machine learning prediction. This method significantly reduces the number of variants that need to be evaluated by geneticists by pinpointing causative variants in the very first positions of the prioritized list. Most importantly, our approach proved to be among the top performers within the CAGI6 Rare Genome Project Challenge, where it was able to rank the true causative variant among the first positions and, uniquely among all the challenge participants, increased the diagnostic yield of 12.5% by solving 2 undiagnosed cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zucca
- enGenome Srl, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - G Nicora
- enGenome Srl, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - M G Carta
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - R Bellazzi
- enGenome Srl, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - P Magni
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
- University of Pavia, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - E Rizzo
- enGenome Srl, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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Aviles Gonzalez CI, Cerchiaro Fernandez DM, Guerra Munoz ME, Romero Ramirez R, Abarca Arias YM, Brasesco MV, Migliaccio GM, Romano F, Cossu G, Primavera D, Carta MG. Mental Health Professionals' Perception of Respect for Human Rights and Organizational Well-Being in Three Countries of South America. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2024; 21:214. [PMID: 38397703 PMCID: PMC10888642 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21020214] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The respect for human rights in mental health care services significantly contributes to organizational well-being and is evolving into an actual benchmark of quality standards. This study assesses the perception of the respect for human rights for users and staff, as well as organizational and job satisfaction among mental health professionals in three South American countries, through the well-being at work and respect for human rights (WWRR) questionnaire and assesses whether there are significant differences. Seven mental health facilities in Argentina, Colombia, and Peru were involved in this observational study. The sample comprised 310 mental health professionals. The three countries exhibited differences in WWRR, particularly in the staff's satisfaction with resources for care (η2 = 0.166) and staff's satisfaction with organizational aspects (η2 = 0.113). Colombia had the lowest scores in these factors but the highest in the perception of the respect for human rights for users and staff, although this difference did not reach a statistical significance. Despite the progress made in recent years towards coercion-free medical standards and an increased focus on mental health polices in Latin American countries, there is a need to enhance the quality standards of mental health services, recognizing the value that the respect for human rights holds for the organizational well-being of both mental health users and professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzalez
- Department of Nursing, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Valledupar 200001, Colombia
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Martha Esther Guerra Munoz
- Faculty of Administrative, Accounting, and Economic Sciences, Rectorate and Vice-Presidency for Research, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Valledupar 200001, Colombia
| | - Robert Romero Ramirez
- Faculty of Administrative, Accounting, and Economic Sciences, Rectorate and Vice-Presidency for Research, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Valledupar 200001, Colombia
| | | | | | - Gian Mario Migliaccio
- Department Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Open University, 00118 Rome, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Università La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Diego Primavera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
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Primavera D, Carta MG, Romano F, Sancassiani F, Chessa E, Floris A, Cossu G, Nardi AE, Piga M, Cauli A. Quality of Life in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Other Chronic Diseases: Highlighting the Amplified Impact of Depressive Episodes. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:233. [PMID: 38255120 PMCID: PMC10815265 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive research has explored SLE's impact on health-related quality of life (H-QoL), especially its connection with mental wellbeing. Recent evidence indicates that depressive syndromes significantly affect H-QoL in SLE. This study aims to quantify SLE's impact on H-QoL, accounting for comorbid depressive episodes through case-control studies. METHODS A case-control study was conducted with SLE patients (meeting the ACR/EULAR 2019 criteria of age ≥ 18). The control group was chosen from a community database. H-QoL was measured with the SF-12 questionnaire, and PHQ-9 was used to assess depressive episodes. RESULTS SLE significantly worsened H-QoL with an attributable burden of 5.37 ± 4.46. When compared to other chronic diseases, only multiple sclerosis had a worse impact on H-QoL. Major depressive episodes had a significant impact on SLE patients' H-QoL, with an attributable burden of 9.43 ± 5.10, similar to its impact on solid cancers but greater than its impact on other diseases. CONCLUSIONS SLE has a comparable impact on QoL to serious chronic disorders. Concomitant depressive episodes notably worsened SLE patients' QoL, exceeding other conditions, similar to solid tumors. This underscores the significance of addressing mood disorders in SLE patients. Given the influence of mood disorders on SLE outcomes, early identification and treatment are crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Primavera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00100 Rome, Italy;
| | - Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Elisabetta Chessa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
- UOC Reumatologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Floris
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
- UOC Reumatologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Panic and Respiration Laboratory, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22725, Brazil;
| | - Matteo Piga
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
- UOC Reumatologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Cauli
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09127 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.S.); (E.C.); (G.C.); (M.P.); (A.C.)
- UOC Reumatologia, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
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Poynton-Smith E, Orrell M, Osei A, Ohene SA, Ansong J, Gyimah L, McKenzie C, Moro MF, Drew-Bold N, Baingana F, Carta MG, Tawiah P, Brobbey K, Funk M. A quantitative analysis of human rights-related attitude changes towards people with mental health conditions and psychosocial, intellectual, or cognitive disabilities following completion of the WHO QualityRights e-training in Ghana. Int J Ment Health Syst 2023; 17:46. [PMID: 38053116 PMCID: PMC10698997 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-023-00609-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite growing recognition of essential human rights, people with mental health conditions and psychosocial, intellectual, or cognitive disabilities' rights are known to be frequently violated in mental healthcare worldwide, with common use of coercive practices and limited recognition of people's right to exercise their legal capacity and make decisions for themselves on treatment and other issues affecting them. To tackle this issue, Ghana adopted the WHO QualityRights Initiative in 2019. This aims to introduce a right-based, person-centred recovery approach within the mental health care system, protecting and promoting the rights of people with mental health conditions, psychosocial, cognitive, and intellectual disabilities in the healthcare context and community. METHODS E-training (capacity-building) was provided in Ghana across a broad array of stakeholder groups including healthcare professionals, carers, and people with lived experience. The training covered legal capacity, coercion, community inclusion, recovery approach, service environment, and the negative attitudes commonly held by stakeholder groups; it was completed by 17,000 people in Ghana as of December 2021. We assessed the impact of the e-training on attitudes through comparing trainees' pre- and post-questionnaire responses on 17 items, each measured on a 5-point Likert scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree), such that higher scores indicated negative attitudes towards persons with mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities as rights holders. Analyses were conducted on two main groups: matched pairs (417 pairs of baseline and follow-up questionnaire responses matched to a high degree of certainty), and the unmatched group (4299 individual completed questionnaire responses). RESULTS We assessed the impact of the WHO QualityRights e-training on attitudes: training resulted in highly significant attitude changes towards alignment with human rights, with scores changing by approximately 40% between baseline and follow-up. In particular, attitude changes were seen in items representing treatment choice, legal capacity, and coercion. This change was not affected by age, gender, or background experience. CONCLUSIONS The QualityRights e-training programme is effective in changing people's (especially healthcare professionals') attitudes towards people with mental health conditions and psychosocial, intellectual, or cognitive disabilities: this is a step towards mental healthcare being more with human rights-based worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Akwasi Osei
- Ghana Ministry of Health-Mental Health Authority, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Leveana Gyimah
- Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Kwaku Brobbey
- Ghana Ministry of Health-Mental Health Authority, Accra, Ghana
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Chessa E, Piga M, Perra A, Pintus E, Porcu M, Serafini C, Congia M, Angioni MM, Naitza MR, Floris A, Mathieu A, Saba L, Carta MG, Cauli A. Effect of anti-P ribosomal and anti-NR2 antibodies on depression and cognitive processes in SLE: an integrated clinical and functional MRI study. Lupus Sci Med 2023; 10:e001005. [PMID: 37918951 PMCID: PMC10626760 DOI: 10.1136/lupus-2023-001005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore the effects of anti-ribosomal P protein (anti-P) and anti-N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor subunit 2 (anti-NR2) autoantibodies on depression and cognitive dysfunction and their relationships with functional brain connectivity in SLE. METHODS This cross-sectional study included adult patients who fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology/European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology 2019 SLE criteria. Anti-P and anti-NR2 were quantified using ELISA. A 1-hour battery of neuropsychological testing interpreted by a neuropsychologist explored depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, CES-D), cognitive domains and quality of life (SF-12). Resting-state functional connectivity (rs-fc) MRI analysis was performed within 1 month, and region-of-interest to region-of-interest (ROI-to-ROI) analyses with the graph theory were performed. RESULTS Thirty-three patients with SLE (9% male) were enrolled, mean age (SD) of 43.5 (14) years and median disease duration of 10.4 years (2.9-25.4). Anti-P was positive in 6 (18.2%) and anti-NR2 in 14 (42.4%) patients. Depressive symptoms were found in 14 (42.4%) patients using the CES-D (range 0-51). After correction for age, disease duration, disease activity and white matter lesion load, the CES-D score was independently associated with anti-P serum level (β=0.32; p=0.049) and prednisone daily dose (β=0.38; p=0.023). Nineteen patients (57.6%) showed at least a cognitive test alteration, but no significant association with autoantibodies was found. The rs-fc MRI analysis revealed an independent association between the anti-P serum levels and many altered brain ROI properties but no anti-NR2 and prednisone effects on the cerebral network. CONCLUSIONS Anti-P was associated with brain network perturbation, which may be responsible for depressive symptoms in patients with SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matteo Piga
- Rheumatology Unit, AOU Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Perra
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisa Pintus
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Michele Porcu
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Cristina Serafini
- Rheumatology Unit, AOU Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Maria Maddalena Angioni
- Rheumatology Unit, AOU Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Micaela Rita Naitza
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Floris
- Rheumatology Unit, AOU Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mathieu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Radiology Department, AOU Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Cauli
- Rheumatology Unit, AOU Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Massa E, Lai E, Donisi C, Scartozzi M, Orgiano L, Mulas O, Pretta A, Caocci G, Carta MG. Understanding the User's Point of View: When the Doctor Gets Sick with Cancer and Seeks Help. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2023; 19:e17450179241325. [PMID: 38164454 PMCID: PMC10758133 DOI: 10.2174/0117450179241325231011070735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Background When physicians confront a serious personal illness, they may discover that the transition to the "sick" role is challenging and not easy. We conducted a qualitative study in which a group of doctors with cancer (DP) was compared with a group of patients with cancer, not doctors (NDP) but with a degree of education, qualifications, and a professional role comparable to that of a doctor. Objectives The main objective was to evaluate the effect of the diagnosis and the treatment of cancer on both the patient's personal and professional life. It was also designed to understand the effect that the experience of cancer may have on the subsequent clinical practice of DP. Methods The eligibility criteria included diagnosis of tumors of different sites and at any stage of disease treated with local (surgery, radiotherapy) or systemic (chemotherapy, hormonal, target) therapies or a combination of both; patients actively working. A semi-structured interview was used to collect information about the patient's cancer experiences. In both groups, six main themes and ten subthemes were identified. Results From July to November 2021, 59 patients were enrolled in the study. Among them, 29 were DP and 30 were NDP. The median age and gender were 55.9 years ± 9.3 SD (range 38-82 y), M/F ratio 12/17 for DP, and 56.3 years ± 8.9 SD (range 40-83 y), M/F ratio 11/19 for NDP, respectively. The main themes were: theme 1, practical aspects related to diagnosis: most of the DP did not encounter difficulties in performing the tests necessary to confirm the diagnosis of cancer, unlike what was observed in NDP. Theme 2, cancer diagnosis experience: Many DP and NDP felt prepared for their own cancer experience. Two-thirds of DP already knew their cancer prognosis from their previous background knowledge and one-third of NDP did not want to discuss the prognosis in depth with their referring oncologists for the fear of learning that their cancer had a poor prognosis. Theme 3, treatment experience: for many DP, having a professional background contributed to more active participation in care and also in the management of side effects of treatments. Most NDP were satisfied with the treatment received in the hospital and the relationship with the health professionals. Theme 4, changes in work: None of the patients from both the groups stopped working permanently or lost their job because of the disease. A higher number of DP and NDP reported a loss of interest in their job. Theme 5, changes in personal/family life and friendships: more than half of the patients in both groups developed a new perspective on their private lives. Theme 6, comfort from faith: most of the patients in both groups who followed a faith, found comfort in that faith. For DP only, we explored the theme of the change in the doctor/patient relationship. Important findings from our study included positive changes in the doctor's clinical practice including having a more empathic relationship with patients, greater consideration of the psychological impact of cancer, and greater attention to certain symptoms of cancer reported by patients. Conclusion This study suggests the need to know the special needs of professional patients, in particular, related to the emotional difficulties, maintenance of privacy, and the need for support on their return to work. These results can help to foster improvements in current cancer care practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Massa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Lai
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Clelia Donisi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Orgiano
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Olga Mulas
- Ematology Hematology and e CTMOHSCT Center, Businco Hospital, ARNAS “G. Brotzu”, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Caocci
- Ematology Hematology and e CTMOHSCT Center, Businco Hospital, ARNAS “G. Brotzu”, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Giovanni Carta M, Kalcev G, Scano A, Aviles Gonzalez CI, Ouali U, Pinna S, Carrà G, Romano F, Preti A, Orrù G, Minerba L, Cossu G, Nardi AE, Primavera D. The impact of MDQ positivity on quality of life impairment: Does it support the hypothesis of "Dysregulation of Mood, Energy, and Social Rhythms Syndrome" (DYMERS)? J Public Health Res 2023; 12:22799036231208356. [PMID: 37927350 PMCID: PMC10625312 DOI: 10.1177/22799036231208356] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background DSM-5 separates bipolar (BD) from depressive disorders, but some experts consider BD as part of a spectrum of mood disorders. The interpretation of numerous false positives of BD screened by the Mood Disorders Questionnaire (MDQ) is part of this debate. Recent study results suggest that the worsening of health-related quality of life (H-Qol) associated with MDQ positivity does not depend solely on mood disorders. This study aims to clarify whether the impairment may be due to other concomitant disorders, unrelated to mood disorders, leading to a worsening of H-Qol. Additionally, the study aims to explore if MDQ positivity itself observe clinical significance. Design and methods The study involved pairs of cases (MDQ+) and controls (MDQ-) matched for sex, age, and absence of DSM-IV psychiatric comorbidity. The impact of MDQ positivity on the quality of life in a sample of MDQ+ comorbid with MDD was measured and compared to impact of MDD in other chronic disorders. Results The H-Qol was significantly worse in MDQ+ than in controls (both groups without any psychiatric co-morbidity). The worsening was similar to severe chronic disorders The burden of worsening quality of life due to MDD was mild in another sample of MDQ positives with comorbid MDD. Conclusion The study hypothesizes that MDQ positivity may be related to hyperactivation and dysregulation of rhythms typical of stress disorders. In fact, MDQ+ was found strongly related to sleep disturbances. Future studies could verify if a "Dysregulation of Mood, Energy, and Social Rhythms Syndrome" (DYMERS), causes worsening the H-Qol in MDQ+.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Goce Kalcev
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scano
- Department of Surgical Science, Molecular Biology Service Lab, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzalez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing Program, Univesidad Popular del Cesar, Sede Sabanas, Valledupar, Colombia
| | - Uta Ouali
- Razi Hospital, La Manouba 2010, Faculty of Medicine of Tunisia, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunisia
| | - Samantha Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, London, UK
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Preti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Science, Molecular Biology Service Lab, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Minerba
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Diego Primavera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), Cagliari, Italy
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Sancassiani F, Montisci R, Meloni L, Nardi AE, Carta MG. Why is it Important to Assess and Treat Alexithymia in the Cardiologic Field? An Overview of the Literature. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2023; 19:e174501792307140. [PMID: 37916203 PMCID: PMC10507214 DOI: 10.2174/17450179-v19-230810-2022-ht15-4764-1] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Alexithymia has been found to be associated with several somatic illnesses, such as cardiovascular, indicating that it might be a risk factor for early death in the long-term course of post-myocardial infarction. From the cardiology perspective, the aim was to collect current evidence about the relationship between alexithymia and somatic illness. Methods The literature was synthesized and summarized in a narrative format. The literature search was carried out in PubMed. Pertinent studies published in the last 50 years written in English were included and organized by three main topics ("The relation between alexithymia and somatic illness from the cardiology perspective"; "How do assess alexithymia?"; "Treating alexithymia") to be discussed. Results High alexithymia is a dimensional trait that affects around 10% of the general population and up to 55% of people with essential hypertension. Also, the link between alexithymia and cardiovascular activity has been pointed out. There are several validated tools to assess alexithymia, as well as treatment options. Conclusion Knowledge about the main features of alexithymia, as well as its assessment and treatment, can promote a multifactorial approach to the primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of cardiac diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Asse Didattico E, SS 554 bivio Sestu 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Roberta Montisci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Asse Didattico E, SS 554 bivio Sestu 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Luigi Meloni
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Asse Didattico E, SS 554 bivio Sestu 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Instituto de Psiquiatria (IPUB), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Asse Didattico E, SS 554 bivio Sestu 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy
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Carta MG, Kalcev G, Fornaro M, Pinna S, Gonzalez CIA, Nardi AE, Primavera D. Does Screening for Bipolar Disorders Identify a "Dysregulation of Mood, Energy, and Social Rhythms Syndrome" (DYMERS)? A Heuristic Working Hypothesis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5162. [PMID: 37568562 PMCID: PMC10419483 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12155162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to verify if people with a positive score on the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) without comorbidity of mood disorders showed a worse level of Health-related Quality of life (HRQol) compared to a control-matched sample of MDQ negatives, identifying a specific syndrome. This is a case-control study based on a database from a community survey. Cases: MDQ-positive without mood disorders; Controls: MDQ negatives matched by sex, age, and psychiatric diagnosis according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV (DSM-IV) criteria. Tools: MDQ, the Advanced Neuropsychiatric Tools and Assessment Schedule (ANTAS) semi-structured interview for psychiatric diagnosis, and the Health Survey Short Form (SF-12) for measuring HRQol. People scoring positive on the MDQ without a diagnosis of mood disorders showed significantly lower scores on the SF-12 compared to people of the same age and of the same sex with an equal diagnosis of psychiatric disorders not related to mood disorders (35.21 ± 6.30 vs. 41.48 ± 3.39, p < 0.0001). In the debate whether a positive score on the MDQ selects an area of "malaise" due to the presence of disorders differing from Bipolar Disorders, or if a positive score on the MDQ may be considered a "subthreshold" form of bipolar disorder in people who may later develop bipolar disorder, a third hypothesis can be advanced, i.e., that a positive score on the MDQ identifies a specific "Dysregulation of Mood, Energy, and Social Rhythms Syndrome" (DYMERS), characterized by a considerable amount of suffering and not attributable to other disorders, and which might represent a trigger for the previously mentioned disorders with which a positive score on the MDQ is associated, probably including, in severe conditions, bipolar disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Goce Kalcev
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Michele Fornaro
- Department of Psychiatry, Federico II University of Naples, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Samantha Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzalez
- Nursing Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Sede Sabanas, Valledupar 20002, Colombia;
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Laboratory Panic and Respiration, Institute of Psychiatry (IPUB), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 22725, Brazil;
| | - Diego Primavera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
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12
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Carta MG, Orrù G, Littera R, Firinu D, Chessa L, Cossu G, Primavera D, Del Giacco S, Tramontano E, Manocchio N, Buonomo C, Scano A. Comparing the responses of countries and National Health Systems to the COVID-19 pandemic: a critical analysis with a case-report series. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2023; 27:7868-7880. [PMID: 37667964 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202308_33442] [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: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
This review aimed to compare the different responses of countries to the pandemic, their National Health Systems, and their impact on citizens' health. This work aimed to create a narrative plot that connects different discussion points and suggests organizational solutions and strategic choices in the face of the pandemic. In particular, this work focused on public health organizations, specifically the European Union and vaccination politics. It is also based on a case report series (about the United States, Germany, Vietnam, New Zealand, Cuba, and Italy), where each country has responded differently to the pandemic in terms of political decisions such as vaccination type, information to citizens, dealings with independent experts, and other specific country factors. In comparing the various models of care systems response to the pandemic, it emerges that: we have found some (few) good practices, but without global coordination, and this is obviously not enough. It is now quite clear that there cannot be a "good answer" in a single nation. Uncoordinated local responses cannot counter a global phenomenon. The second point is that the general context must be considered from a strategic point of view. With the threat of new pandemics (but also of health disasters linked to climate change, pollution, and wars), humanity finds itself at the crossroads between investing in a "democratic" management of international bodies but without power (and at the mercy of the need for funds with consequent conflicts) or in some new leadership proposals that advocate efficiency and problem-solving (and that would probably be able to implement it) but that would place processes totally outside of the public's control.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Carta
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.
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Carta MG, Kalcev G, Scano A, Pinna S, Gonzalez CIA, Nardi AE, Orrù G, Primavera D. Screening, Genetic Variants, and Bipolar Disorders: Can Useful Hypotheses Arise from the Sum of Partial Failures? Clin Pract 2023; 13:853-862. [PMID: 37623258 PMCID: PMC10453758 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13040077] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Bipolar disorder (BD) is a relevant public health issue, therefore accurate screening tools could be useful. The objective of this study is to verify the accuracy of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) and genetic risk as screeners, and their comparison in terms of reliability. Older adults (N = 61, ≥60 years) received a clinical psychiatric evaluation, the MDQ, and were evaluated according to the presence of the genetic variant RS1006737 of CACNA1C. MDQ+ versus the diagnosis of BD as a gold standard shows a sensitivity of 0.286 (Cl 95% 0.14-0.39); a specificity of 0.925 (Cl 95% 0.85-0.08); a predictive positive value (PPV) of 0.667 (Cl 95% 0.33-0.91); and a predictive negative value (PNV) of 0.702 (Cl 95% 0.65-0.75). The positivity for the variant RS1006737 of the CACNA1C against the diagnosis of BD as a gold standard shows a sensitivity of 0.750 (Cl 95% 0.55-0.90); a specificity of 0.375 (Cl 95% 0.28-0.45); a PPV of 0.375 (Cl 95% 0.28-0.45); and a PNV of 0.750 (Cl 95% 0.55-0.90). The reliability between the MDQ+ and positivity for the variant RS1006737 of the CACNA1C was very low (K = -0.048, Cl 95% -0.20-0.09). The study found that both the genetic and the paper and pencil test were quite accurate, but were not reliable in case finding. In fact, despite some validity, albeit specular (in the case of a positive genetic test, the probability of having the disorder is very high, whereas in the case of a negative score on the paper and pencil test, the probability of not having the disorder is very high), the unreliability of the two tests (i.e., they certainly do not measure the same underlying dimension) opens the door to the need for an interpretation and the possibility of a synergistic use for screening. From a heuristic perspective, which obviously requires all of the necessary verifications, this study seems to suggest the hypothesis that a condition of hyperactivation common to disorders and stress conditions, and identified by a positive score on the MDQ (which is common to BD, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety disorders and whose genetic basis has not yet been clarified) can trigger BD in people with a predisposition to hyperactivity (i.e., in people with the condition identified by the analyzed genetic variant).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Goce Kalcev
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Alessandra Scano
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Blocco I, Asse Didattico Medicina P2, Monserrato (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.S.); (G.O.)
| | - Samantha Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
| | - Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzalez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing Program, Univesidad Popular del Cesar, Sede Sabanas, Valledupar 20002, Colombia;
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Laboratory Panic and Respiration, Institute of Psychiatry (Ipub), Federal University of Rio De Janeiro (Ufrj), Rio De Janeiro 22725, Brazil;
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, Blocco I, Asse Didattico Medicina P2, Monserrato (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (A.S.); (G.O.)
| | - Diego Primavera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (S.P.); (D.P.)
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Mocci S, Littera R, Chessa L, Campagna M, Melis M, Ottelio CM, Piras IS, Lai S, Firinu D, Tranquilli S, Mascia A, Vacca M, Schirru D, Lecca LI, Rassu S, Cannas F, Sanna C, Carta MG, Sedda F, Giuressi E, Cipri S, Miglianti M, Perra A, Giglio S. A review of the main genetic factors influencing the course of COVID-19 in Sardinia: the role of human leukocyte antigen-G. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1138559. [PMID: 37342325 PMCID: PMC10277491 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1138559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction A large number of risk and protective factors have been identified during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic which may influence the outcome of COVID-19. Among these, recent studies have explored the role of HLA-G molecules and their immunomodulatory effects in COVID-19, but there are very few reports exploring the genetic basis of these manifestations. The present study aims to investigate how host genetic factors, including HLA-G gene polymorphisms and sHLA-G, can affect SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and Methods We compared the immune-genetic and phenotypic characteristics between COVID-19 patients (n = 381) with varying degrees of severity of the disease and 420 healthy controls from Sardinia (Italy). Results HLA-G locus analysis showed that the extended haplotype HLA-G*01:01:01:01/UTR-1 was more prevalent in both COVID-19 patients and controls. In particular, this extended haplotype was more common among patients with mild symptoms than those with severe symptoms [22.7% vs 15.7%, OR = 0.634 (95% CI 0.440 - 0.913); P = 0.016]. Furthermore, the most significant HLA-G 3'UTR polymorphism (rs371194629) shows that the HLA-G 3'UTR Del/Del genotype frequency decreases gradually from 27.6% in paucisymptomatic patients to 15.9% in patients with severe symptoms (X2 = 7.095, P = 0.029), reaching the lowest frequency (7.0%) in ICU patients (X2 = 11.257, P = 0.004). However, no significant differences were observed for the soluble HLA-G levels in patients and controls. Finally, we showed that SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Sardinian population is also influenced by other genetic factors such as β-thalassemia trait (rs11549407C>T in the HBB gene), KIR2DS2/HLA-C C1+ group combination and the HLA-B*58:01, C*07:01, DRB1*03:01 haplotype which exert a protective effect [P = 0.005, P = 0.001 and P = 0.026 respectively]. Conversely, the Neanderthal LZTFL1 gene variant (rs35044562A>G) shows a detrimental consequence on the disease course [P = 0.001]. However, by using a logistic regression model, HLA-G 3'UTR Del/Del genotype was independent from the other significant variables [ORM = 0.4 (95% CI 0.2 - 0.7), PM = 6.5 x 10-4]. Conclusion Our results reveal novel genetic variants which could potentially serve as biomarkers for disease prognosis and treatment, highlighting the importance of considering genetic factors in the management of COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Mocci
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Littera
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luchino Chessa
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Liver Unit, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marcello Campagna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maurizio Melis
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carla Maria Ottelio
- Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ignazio S. Piras
- Neurogenomics Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Sara Lai
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefania Tranquilli
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessia Mascia
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Monica Vacca
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniele Schirru
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Isaia Lecca
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefania Rassu
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Cannas
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Celeste Sanna
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesca Sedda
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Erika Giuressi
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Selene Cipri
- GeneMos-APS (Association for Social Advancement), Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Michela Miglianti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Perra
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sabrina Giglio
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Centre for Research University Services (CeSAR, Centro Servizi di Ateneo per la Ricerca), University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
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15
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Kalcev G, Scano A, Orrù G, Primavera D, Cossu G, Nardi AE, Carta MG. Is a Genetic Variant associated with Bipolar Disorder Frequent in People without Bipolar Disorder but with Characteristics of Hyperactivity and Novelty Seeking? Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2023; 19:e174501792303280. [PMID: 37916199 PMCID: PMC10351339 DOI: 10.2174/17450179-v19-e230419-2022-53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Objective The objective is to verify whether a genetic condition associated with bipolar disorder (BD) is frequent in old adults adapted to their environment, without BD, but with aptitudes for hyperactivity and novelty seeking (H/NS). Methods In this cross-sectional study, the study sample included healthy elderly people (40 participants, aged 60 or older) living in an urban area and recruited from a previous study on physical exercise and active aging, who were compared with 21 old adults with BD from the same area. The genetic methodology consisted of blood sampling, DNA extraction, real-time PCR jointly with FRET probes, and the SANGER sequencing method. The genetic variant RS1006737 of CACNA1C, found to be associated with bipolar disorder diagnosis, was investigated. Results The frequency of the RS1006737 genetic variant in the study group (H/NS) is not higher than in the BD group and is statistically significantly higher than in all the control groups found in the literature. However, the familiarity for BD is higher in old adults with BD than in the H/NS sample without BD. The risk of BD in the family (also considering those without BD but with family members with BD) is not associated with the presence of the genetic variant examined. Conclusion The study suggests that the gene examined is associated with characteristics of hyperactivity rather than just BD. Nevertheless, choosing to participate in an exercise program is an excessively general way to identify H/NS. The next step would be to identify the old adults with well-defined H/NS features with an adequate tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goce Kalcev
- Department of Innovation Sciences and Technology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scano
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Diego Primavera
- Azienda Regionale della Salute (ARES, Sardegna), Medio Campidano, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Laboratory Panic and Respiration, Institute of Psychiatry (Ipub), Federal University of Rio De Janeiro (Ufrj), Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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16
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Montisci R, Sancassiani F, Marchetti MF, Biddau M, Carta MG, Meloni L. Alexithymia for cardiologists: a clinical approach to the patient. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2023:01244665-990000000-00116. [PMID: 37129913 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Alexithymia literally meaning 'no words for emotions' is a term used in mental health settings to describe people who have difficulties in identifying and verbalizing their emotional states. There is evidence in the literature that this personality trait may influence negatively the illness behavior when an acute coronary event occurs. In fact, people with high alexithymia are more likely to experience wrong appraisal and interpretation of symptoms, and because of their difficulty in describing feelings to others, they can be poor in reporting symptoms at the first consultation with a physician. This behavioral pattern (alexithymic) may put patients with acute myocardial infarction at higher risk for delayed medical care. Here, we aim to present an overview of alexithymia from the perspective of the clinical cardiologist, with a focus on the definition, clinical recognition, and potential impact on cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Montisci
- Clinical Cardiology, AOU Cagliari, Department of Medical Science and Public Health
| | - Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Mattia Biddau
- Clinical Cardiology, AOU Cagliari, Department of Medical Science and Public Health
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Meloni
- Clinical Cardiology, AOU Cagliari, Department of Medical Science and Public Health
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17
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Scano A, Kalcev G, Piras M, Fais S, Cossu G, Gonzalez CIA, Carta MG, Orrù G. Usefulness of salivary sampling for the molecular detection of a
genetic variant associated with bipolar disorders. J Public Health Res 2023; 12:22799036221146915. [PMID: 36967730 PMCID: PMC10037733 DOI: 10.1177/22799036221146915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Under certain conditions, the hyperthymic temperament traits associated with an
increased risk of developing bipolar disorders may in fact produce adaptive
responses. The purpose of this study is to see if the type of biological
material used for genetic analysis (saliva or blood) affects the detection of
mutations in the CACNA1C (RS1006737) gene. The first experimental group
consisted of Sardinian migrants (“volunteers”) in South American and European
megacities. The second experimental group consisted of older healthy subjects
with hyperactivity and novelty-seeking characteristics from Cagliari, Italy. The
genetic procedure included DNA extraction, real-time PCR, and the Sanger method.
Nonetheless, the authors believe that saliva is the most appropriate biological
material, given its many advantages. In contrast to blood, saliva can be
collected by any type of healthcare provider after following a few simple
instructions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Scano
- Department of Surgical Sciences,
University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Alessandra Scano, Department of Surgical
Sciences, University of Cagliari, Via Ospedale, 46, 09124 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Goce Kalcev
- International PhD in Innovation
Sciences and Technology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Martina Piras
- International PhD in Innovation
Sciences and Technology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sara Fais
- Department of Surgical Sciences,
University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and
Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and
Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Sciences,
University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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18
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Perra A, Galetti A, Zaccheddu R, Locci A, Piludu F, Preti A, Primavera D, Di Natale L, Nardi AE, Kurotshka PK, Cossu G, Sancassiani F, Stella G, De Lorenzo V, Zreik T, Carta MG. A Recovery-Oriented Program for People with Bipolar Disorder through Virtual Reality-Based Cognitive Remediation: Results of a Feasibility Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062142. [PMID: 36983145 PMCID: PMC10056011 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062142] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cognitive impairment is a frequent consequence of bipolar disorder (BD) that is difficult to prevent and treat. In addition, the quality of the preliminary evidence on the treatment of BD through Cognitive Remediation (CR) with traditional methods is poor. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of a CR intervention with fully immersive Virtual Reality (VR) as an additional treatment for BD and offers preliminary data on its efficacy. Methods: Feasibility randomized controlled cross-over clinical study, with experimental condition lasting three months, crossed between two groups. Experimental condition: CR fully immersive VR recovery-oriented program plus conventional care; Control condition: conventional care. The control group began the experimental condition after a three months period of conventional care (waiting list). After the randomization of 50 people with BD diagnosis, the final sample consists of 39 participants in the experimental condition and 25 in the control condition because of dropouts. Results: Acceptability and tolerability of the intervention were good. Compared to the waitlist group, the experimental group reported a significant improvement regarding cognitive functions (memory: p = 0.003; attention: p = 0.002, verbal fluency: p = 0.010, executive function: p = 0.003), depressive symptoms (p = 0.030), emotional awareness (p = 0.007) and biological rhythms (p = 0.029). Conclusions: The results are preliminary and cannot be considered exhaustive due to the small sample size. However, the evidence of efficacy, together with the good acceptability of the intervention, is of interest. These results suggest the need to conduct studies with larger samples that can confirm this data. Trial registration: ClinicalTrialsgov NCT05070065, registered in September 2021
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Perra
- International PhD in Innovation Sciences and Technologies, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Alessia Galetti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rosanna Zaccheddu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Aurora Locci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Piludu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Preti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | - Diego Primavera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | | | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giusy Stella
- Department of Mental Health and Pathological Addiction, ASL 5, 00034 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Thurayya Zreik
- Mental Health Service User Association, 11072070 Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
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19
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Harden B, Gyimah L, Funk M, Drew-Bold N, Orrell M, Moro MF, Cole C, Ohene SA, Baingana F, Amissah C, Ansong J, Tawiah PE, Brobbey K, Carta MG, Osei A. Attitudes towards persons with mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities as rights holders in Ghana: a World Health Organization study. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:142. [PMID: 36882751 PMCID: PMC9993713 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04620-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are currently major efforts underway in Ghana to address stigma and discrimination, and promote the human rights of those with mental health conditions, within mental health services and the community, working with the World Health Organization's QualityRights initiative. The present study aims to investigate attitudes towards people with lived experience of mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities as rights holders. METHODS Stakeholders within the Ghanaian mental health system and community, including health professionals, policy makers, and persons with lived experience, completed the QualityRights pre-training questionnaire. The items examined attitudes towards coercion, legal capacity, service environment, and community inclusion. Additional analyses explored how far participant factors may link to attitudes. RESULTS Overall, attitudes towards the rights of persons with lived experience were not well aligned with a human rights approach to mental health. Most people supported the use of coercive practices and often thought that health practitioners and family members were in the best position to make treatment decisions. Health/mental health professionals were less likely to endorse coercive measures compared to other groups. CONCLUSION This was the first in-depth study assessing attitudes towards persons with lived experience as rights holders in Ghana, and frequently attitudes did not comply with human rights standards, demonstrating a need for training initiatives to combat stigma and discrimination and promote human rights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briony Harden
- Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Innovation Park, Jubilee Campus, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK.
| | | | - Michelle Funk
- Policy, Law and Human Rights, Department of Mental Health & Substance Use, World Health Organisation, Geneva, CH, Switzerland
| | - Natalie Drew-Bold
- Policy, Law and Human Rights, Department of Mental Health & Substance Use, World Health Organisation, Geneva, CH, Switzerland
| | - Martin Orrell
- Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Innovation Park, Jubilee Campus, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK
| | | | - Celline Cole
- Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, DE, Germany
| | | | | | - Caroline Amissah
- Ghana Ministry of Health - Mental Health Authority, Accra, GH, Ghana
| | | | | | - Kwaku Brobbey
- Ghana Ministry of Health - Mental Health Authority, Accra, GH, Ghana
| | | | - Akwasi Osei
- Ghana Ministry of Health - Mental Health Authority, Accra, GH, Ghana
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20
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Saba L, Porcu M, De Rubeis G, Balestrieri A, Serra A, Carta MG. A new system of authorship best assessment. J Public Health Res 2023; 12:22799036221149840. [PMID: 36846303 PMCID: PMC9947697 DOI: 10.1177/22799036221149840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The standard bibliometric indexes ("m-quotient "H-," "H2-," "g-," "a-," "m-," and "r-" index) do not considered the research' position in the author list of the paper. We proposed a new methodology, System of Authorship Best Assessment (SABA), to characterize the scientific output based on authors' position. Material and Methods Four classes S1A, S1B, S2A, and S2B include only papers where the researcher is in first, first/last, first/second/last, and first/second/second-last/last position respectively were used for the calculation of H-index and number of citations The system was tested with Noble prize winners controlled with researchers matched for H-index. The different in percentage between standard bibliometric index and S2B was calculated and compared. Results The percentage differences in Noble prize winners between S2B-H-index versus Global H-index and number of citations is very lower comparing with control group (median 4.15% [adjusted 95% CI, 2.54-5.30] vs 9.00 [adjusted 95% CI, 7.16-11.84], p < 0.001; average difference 8.7% vs 20.3%). All different in percentage between standard bibliometric index and S2B except two (H2- and m-index) were significantly lower among Noble prize compared with control group. Conclusion The SABA methodology better weight the research impact by showing that for excellent profiles the S2B is similar to global values whereas for other researchers there is a significant difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Saba
- Department of Medical Sciences and
Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Sardegna, Italy,Luca Saba, Department of Radiology, Azienda
Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, SS 554, PO Duilio Casula Monserrato,
Cagliari, Sardegna 09124, Italy.
| | - Michele Porcu
- Department of Medical Sciences and
Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Sardegna, Italy
| | | | - Antonella Balestrieri
- Department of Medical Sciences and
Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Sardegna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Serra
- Department of Medical Sciences and
Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Sardegna, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and
Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Sardegna, Italy
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21
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Carta MG, Bhugra D. Human rights and Mental health: critical challenges for health professionals, users, and citizens'. Int Rev Psychiatry 2023; 35:147-149. [PMID: 37105148 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2023.2178196] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Applied Medical Technologies and Methodology, Chair of Society and Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Dinesh Bhugra
- Mental Health & Cultural Diversity, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College, London
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22
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Perra A, Riccardo CL, De Lorenzo V, De Marco E, Di Natale L, Kurotschka PK, Preti A, Carta MG. Fully Immersive Virtual Reality-Based Cognitive Remediation for Adults with Psychosocial Disabilities: A Systematic Scoping Review of Methods Intervention Gaps and Meta-Analysis of Published Effectiveness Studies. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:1527. [PMID: 36674283 PMCID: PMC9864668 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive Remediation (CR) programs are effective for the treatment of mental diseases; in recent years, Virtual Reality (VR) rehabilitation tools are increasingly used. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the published randomized controlled trials that used fully immersive VR tools for CR programs in psychiatric rehabilitation. We also wanted to map currently published CR/VR interventions, their methods components, and their evidence base, including the framework of the development intervention of CR in fully immersive VR. METHODS Level 1 of evidence. This study followed the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews and Systematic Review. Three electronic databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Embase) were systematically searched, and studies were included if they met the eligibility criteria: only randomized clinical trials, only studies with fully immersive VR, and only CR for the adult population with mental disorders. RESULTS We found 4905 (database) plus 7 (manual/citation searching articles) eligible studies. According to inclusion criteria, 11 studies were finally reviewed. Of these, nine included patients with mild cognitive impairment, one with schizophrenia, and one with mild dementia. Most studies used an ecological scenario, with improvement across all cognitive domains. Although eight studies showed significant efficacy of CR/VR, the interventions' development was poorly described, and few details were given on the interventions' components. CONCLUSIONS Although CR/VR seems to be effective in clinical and feasibility outcomes, the interventions and their components are not clearly described. This limits the understanding of the effectiveness and undermines their real-world implementation and the establishment of a gold standard for fully immersive VR/CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Perra
- International PhD in Innovation Sciences and Technologies, Department of Mechanical Chemistry and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Chiara Laura Riccardo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Erika De Marco
- Azienda Sociosanitaria Ligure 2, Dipartimento di Salute Mentale e delle Dipendenze, 17100 Savona, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Preti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
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23
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Nardi AE, Sancassiani F, Barrui V, Kalcev G, Uras V, Meloni G, Marongiu L, Tamburini G, Maleci A, Quagliato LA, La Nasa G, Carta MG. The Effects of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) in Monotherapy and with Add-on Treatments on Health-related Quality of Life of People with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A Systematic Review of Randomized-Controlled Trials. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2023; 19:e1745017921112200. [PMID: 38659630 PMCID: PMC11037549 DOI: 10.2174/17450179-v17-e211118-2021-ht2-1910-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background The era of establishing tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) changed the outcome and the course of this life-threatening malignancy. People suffering from CML have now a better prognosis and a longer life expectancy due to the development of TKIs, even if it requires long-term, often lifelong, treatments that are nonetheless associated with improved Health-related Quality of life (HRQoL). However, data on the effects of TKIs on HRQoL are not always systematic; sometimes the data have been obtained by studies different from RCTs, or without a clear definition of what HRQoL is. The main purpose of this systematic review is to summarize all randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) including HRQoL as main or secondary outcome in patients with CML treated with TKIs or with TKIs plus an add-on treatment. Methods A systematic review has been conducted by searching the relevant papers in PubMed/Medline and Web of Science with the following keywords: "quality of life" OR "health-related quality of life" OR "QoL" OR "HRQoL" OR "H-QoL" AND "chronic myeloid leukemia". Interval was set from January 2000 to December 2020. Results 40 papers were identified through the search. Out of them, 7 RCTs were included. All the studies used standardized measures to assess HRQoL, even not always specific for CML. 5 RCTs randomized subjects to 2 or 3 arms to evaluate the effects of TKIs of the first, second and third generation in monotherapy. 2 RCTs randomized subjects to TKI therapy plus an add-on treatment versus TKI therapy as usual. The results of all these trials were examined and discussed. Conclusion All the included RCTs pointed out significant findings regarding the positive effects of TKIs on HRQoL of people with CML, both when they were used in monotherapy or, notably, with an add-on treatment to enhance TKIs effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio E. Nardi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Vanessa Barrui
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Goce Kalcev
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Veronica Uras
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Meloni
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Marongiu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giorgio Tamburini
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Maleci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laiana A. Quagliato
- Institute of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Giorgio La Nasa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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24
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Carta MG, Kalcev G, Scano A, Primavera D, Orrù G, Gureye O, Cossu G, Nardi AE. Is Bipolar Disorder the Consequence of a Genetic Weakness or Not Having Correctly Used a Potential Adaptive Condition? Brain Sci 2022; 13:brainsci13010016. [PMID: 36671999 PMCID: PMC9856125 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
It is hypothesized that factors associated with bipolar disorder could, uer defined conditions, produce adaptive behaviors. The aim is to verify whether a genetic feature associated with bipolar disorder can be found in people without bipolar disorder but with hyperactivity/exploration traits. Healthy old adults (N = 40) recruited for a previous study on exercise were subdivided using a previously validated tool into those with and without hyperactivity/exploration traits and compared with a group of old patients with bipolar disorder (N = 21). The genetic variant RS1006737 of CACNA1C was analyzed using blood samples, DNA extraction, real-time PCR, FRET probes, and SANGER method sequencing. People with hyperactivity/exploration traits and without bipolar disorder were like people with bipolar disorder regarding the frequency of the genetic variant (OR = 0.79, CI95%: 0.21-2.95), but were different from people without either hyperactivity/exploration traits and bipolar disorder (OR = 4.75, CI95%: 1.19-18.91). The combined group of people with hyperactivity/exploration traits without bipolar disorder plus people with bipolar disorder had a higher frequency of the variant than people without either hyperactivity/exploration traits or bipolar disorder (OR = 4.25, CI95%: 1.24-14.4). To consider the genetic profile of bipolar disorder not an aberrant condition opens the way to a new approach in which the adaptive potential would be a central point in psychosocial treatment in addition to drug therapy. Future research can confirm the results of our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Goce Kalcev
- International Ph.D. in Innovation Sciences and Technology, University of Cagliari, Via Università 40, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scano
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Asse Didattico Medicina P2—Monserrato (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Diego Primavera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Asse Didattico Medicina P2—Monserrato (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Oye Gureye
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health, Neuroscience and Substance Abuse, Department of Psychiatry, University of Ibadan, Oduduwa Road, Ibadan 200132, Nigeria
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserato Blocco I (CA), 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Laboratory Panic and Respiration, Institute of Psychiatry (Ipub), Federal University of Rio De Janeiro (Ufrj), Rio De Janeiro 22725, Brazil
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25
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Husky MM, Bitfoi A, Chan-Chee C, Carta MG, Goelitz D, Koç C, Lesinskiene S, Mihova Z, Otten R, Shojaei T, Kovess-Masfety V. Self-reported fears and mental health in elementary school children across Europe. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 31:1909-1919. [PMID: 34125282 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-021-01823-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Fears are common in the general population and particularly among children. The number of fear subtypes (animals, natural environment, situational, blood-injection-injury or other type) has been shown to be associated with psychopathology. Furthermore, there is evidence suggesting that some subtypes may be more often associated with mental disorders than others. The present study uses data from a large cross sectional survey, the School Children Mental Health in Europe (SCMHE) study, conducted in eight European countries on children ages 6 through 13-years-old attending elementary school (n = 9613). Fear subtypes and self-reported mental health were assessed using the Dominic Interactive (DI), a self-administered computerized image-based questionnaire. The findings show that the number of fear subtypes is strongly associated with self-reported internalizing and externalizing problems. In addition, adjusting for the number of subtypes, fear of animals was less likely than other fears to be associated with psychopathology. The findings support the notion that children who report excessive and generalized fear should be targeted for prevention, consistent with research identifying childhood onset generalized specific phobia as a probable precursor to subsequent psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde M Husky
- Laboratoire de Psychologie, EA4139, Université de Bordeaux, 3 ter, place de la Victoire, 33076, Bordeaux, France.
| | - Adina Bitfoi
- The Romanian League for Mental Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Centro Di Psichiatria Di Consulenza E Psicosomatica Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria Di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Dietmar Goelitz
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Theology, Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen-Nuernberg, Germany
| | - Ceren Koç
- Yeniden Health and Education Society, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sigita Lesinskiene
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Roy Otten
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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26
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Ouali U, Aissa A, Rjaibi S, Zoghlami N, Zgueb Y, Larnaout A, Zid M, Kacem I, Charfi F, Moro MF, Touihri N, Melki W, Aounallah-Skhiri H, Nacef F, Gouider R, El Hechmi Z, Carta MG. Prevalence of Mood Disorders and Associated Factors at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Potocol for a Community Survey in La Manouba Governorate, Tunisia. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2022; 18:e174501792210250. [PMID: 37274854 PMCID: PMC10156032 DOI: 10.2174/17450179-v18-e221026-2022-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Aims The present survey aims to assess the overall mood disorder prevalence and identify associated socio-demographic and clinical factors in a Tunisian community sample, with special attention to the COVID-19 pandemic. Background Mood disorders are one of the leading causes of all non-fatal burdens of disease, with depression being at the top of the list. The COVID-19 pandemic may have increased the prevalence of mood disorders, especially in Low and Middle-income countries (LMICs) and in vulnerable populations. Objective 1/ Assess point and lifetime prevalence of depressive and bipolar disorders as well as subthreshold bipolarity in a representative population sample of La Manouba governorate and assess treatment patterns for these disorders; 2/Study socio-demographic and clinical correlates of mood disorders 3/ Assess the association between mood disorders and quality of life 4/ Study the impact of the COVID-pandemic on the prevalence of mood disorders 5/ Assess coping mechanisms to the COVID-pandemic and whether these mechanisms moderate the appearance of mood disorders or symptoms since the beginning of the pandemic. Methods This is a household cross-sectional observational survey to be conducted in La Manouba Governorate in a sample of 4540 randomly selected individuals aged ≥ 15 years. Data collection will be carried out by trained interviewers with clinical experience, through face-to-face interviews and the use of the computer assisted personal interviewing approach (CAPI). The following assessment tools are administered. Results Structured clinical Interview for DSM IV-TR (Mood disorder section and Screening questions on Anxiety), Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ), Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ), 12-item Short Form Survey (SF-12), the Brief-COPE, and a questionnaire about a headache. In addition, socio-demographic and clinical data will be collected. Conclusion This will be one of the very few household surveys in a general population sample to assess mental health problems and COVID-19-related variables since the beginning of the pandemic. Through this research, we aim to obtain an epidemiological profile of mood disorders in Tunisia and an estimation of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their prevalence. Results should contribute to improving mental health care in Tunisia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uta Ouali
- Department Psychiatry A, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR18SP03, Tunisia
| | - Amina Aissa
- Department Psychiatry A, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR18SP03, Tunisia
| | - Salsabil Rjaibi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- National Institute of Health, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Yosra Zgueb
- Department Psychiatry A, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR18SP03, Tunisia
| | - Amine Larnaout
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Department Psychiatry D, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Mejdi Zid
- National Institute of Health, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Imen Kacem
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR18SP03, Tunisia
- Department of Neurology, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Charfi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Mongi Slim Hospital La Marsa, Marsa, Tunisia
| | | | | | - Wahid Melki
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Department Psychiatry D, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
- Technical Committee for Mental Health Promotion at the Ministry of Health, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hajer Aounallah-Skhiri
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- National Institute of Health, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Epidémiologie Nutritionnelle (SURVEN), Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Fethi Nacef
- Department Psychiatry A, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR18SP03, Tunisia
| | - Riadh Gouider
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR18SP03, Tunisia
- Department of Neurology, Razi Hospital La Manouba, Manouba 2010, Tunisia
| | | | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Center for Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatics, University Hospital, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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27
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Littera R, Perra A, Miglianti M, Piras IS, Mocci S, Lai S, Melis M, Zolfino T, Balestrieri C, Conti M, Serra G, Figorilli F, Firinu D, Onali S, Matta L, Porcu C, Pes F, Fanni D, Manieli C, Vacca M, Cusano R, Trucas M, Cipri S, Tranquilli S, Rassu S, Cannas F, Carta MG, Kowalik MA, Giuressi E, Faa G, Chessa L, Giglio S. The double-sided of human leukocyte antigen-G molecules in type 1 autoimmune hepatitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1007647. [PMID: 36311782 PMCID: PMC9597675 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1007647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunomodulatory effects of HLA-G expression and its role in cancers, human liver infections and liver transplantation are well documented, but so far, there are only a few reports addressing autoimmune liver diseases, particularly autoimmune hepatitis (AIH).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Littera
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Sardegna, Italy
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Andrea Perra
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Michela Miglianti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ignazio S. Piras
- Neurogenomics Division, Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Stefano Mocci
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Sara Lai
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Sardegna, Italy
| | - Maurizio Melis
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Teresa Zolfino
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ed Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS), S. Michele Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Maria Conti
- Liver Unit, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Figorilli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ed Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS), S. Michele Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Simona Onali
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Matta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carmen Porcu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesco Pes
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniela Fanni
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University Hospital San Giovanni di Dio, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Cristina Manieli
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale ed Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS), S. Michele Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Monica Vacca
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Cusano
- Biomedical Sector, Center for Advanced Studies, Research and Development (CRS4), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marcello Trucas
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Selene Cipri
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefania Tranquilli
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Federica Cannas
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marta Anna Kowalik
- Section of Pathology, Oncology and Molecular Pathology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Gavino Faa
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University Hospital San Giovanni di Dio, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luchino Chessa
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Liver Unit, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
- *Correspondence: Roberto Littera, ; Andrea Perra, ; Stefano Mocci, ; Luchino Chessa,
| | - Sabrina Giglio
- Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Sardegna, Italy
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), Cagliari, Italy
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Centre for Research University Services (CeSAR, Centro Servizi di Ateneo per la Ricerca), University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
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28
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Machado S, Teixeira D, Monteiro D, Imperatori C, Murillo-Rodriguez E, da Silva Rocha FP, Yamamoto T, Amatriain-Fernández S, Budde H, Carta MG, Caixeta L, de Sá Filho AS. Clinical applications of exercise in Parkinson's disease: what we need to know? Expert Rev Neurother 2022; 22:771-780. [PMID: 36168890 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2022.2128768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exploring the potential of exercise in the rehabilitation process of patients with Parkinson's (PD) may be an interesting treatment perspective. Exercise-induced responses derived from neurotrophic elements appear to ameliorate the decline in neurodegeneration. Despite this understanding, the literature needs to be updated. AREAS COVERED Our review focuses on: a) the key mechanisms of exercise on PD, highlighting mainly the responses related to neuroplasticity; b) the effects induced by different traditional types of exercise, also highlighting the effects of complementary therapies related to movement; c) the volume of exercise required to support efficient results are explored in the context of PD. Additionally, the proposition of new clinical application strategies in the context of PD will also be determined. EXPERT OPINION It is suggested that different intensities of aerobic exercise be explored for the treatment of PD. The results associated with high intensity seem promising for performance, physiological and clinical parameters, such as BDNF production and cognition. On the other hand, the diversification of tasks and repetition of motor gestures appear as consistent arguments to exercise prescription. Finally, for future investigations, the neuromodulation strategy in association with aerobic exercise appears as a potential inducer of benefits on gait and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Machado
- Department of Sports Methods and Techniques, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil.,Physical Activity Neuroscience Laboratory (LABNAF), Neurodiversity Institute, Queimados-RJ, Brazil.,Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mérida, Mexico
| | - Diogo Teixeira
- Universidade Lusófona, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Lisbon, Portugal; Research Center in Sport, Physical Education, and Exercise and Health (CIDEFES), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diogo Monteiro
- ESECS, Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal; Research Center in Sport, Health and Human Development (CIDESD), 5000-558, Vila Real, Portugal.,Life Quality Research Centre (CIEQV), Leiria, Portugal
| | - Claudio Imperatori
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mérida, Mexico.,Cognitive and Clinical Psychology Laboratory, Department of Human Sciences European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eric Murillo-Rodriguez
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mérida, Mexico.,Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mexico
| | | | - Tetsuya Yamamoto
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mérida, Mexico.,Graduate School of Technology, Industrial and Social Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Sandra Amatriain-Fernández
- Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM) at the Faculty of Human Sciences, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Henning Budde
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mérida, Mexico.,Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM) at the Faculty of Human Sciences, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Leonardo Caixeta
- Neurology and Neuropsychiatry Department of Clinical Medicine, Federal University of Goiás, School of Medicine, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Alberto Souza de Sá Filho
- Intercontinental Neuroscience Research Group, Mérida, Mexico.,Laboratorio de Neurociencias Moleculares e Integrativas, Escuela de Medicina, División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Mayab, Mexico.,Department of Physical Education, Paulista University, Goiânia, Brazil
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29
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Piras M, Perra A, Gureje O, Preti A, Carta MG. The Current Quality of Web-Based Information on the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder: A Systematic Search. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11185427. [PMID: 36143075 PMCID: PMC9501527 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11185427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: An important aspect of managing chronic disorders like bipolar disorder is to have access to relevant health information. This study investigates and compares the quality of information on the treatments of bipolar disorder that is available on English websites, as an international language, and on Italian websites, as a popular local language. Methods: A systematic review search was obtained from four search engines. We excluded unrelated materials, scientific papers, and duplicates. We analyzed popularity with PageRank; technological quality with Nibbler; readability with the Flesh Reading Ease test and Gulpease index; quality of information with the DISCERN scale, the JAMA benchmark criteria, and on the extent of adherence to the HONCode. Results: 35 English and 31 Italian websites were included. The English websites were found to have a higher level of quality information and technological quality than the Italian ones. Overall, the websites were found to be difficult to read, requiring a high level of education. Conclusions: These results can be important to inform guidelines for the improvement of health information and help users to reach a higher level of evidence on the websites. Users should find the benefits of treatment, support for shared decision-making, the sources used, the medical editor’s supervision, and the risk of postponing treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Piras
- Innovation Sciences and Technologies, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Perra
- Innovation Sciences and Technologies, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-348-144-4501
| | - Oye Gureje
- Department of Psychiatry, University College Hospital, Ibadan 200285, Nigeria
| | - Antonio Preti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
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30
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Velluzzi F, Cossu G, Fosci M, Montisci R, Zaccheddu R, Minerba L, Musu M, Pintus E, Fortin D, Romano F, Aviles Gonzalez CI, Melis P, Deledda A, Loviselli A, Carta MG. Effect of a Low-Moderate Exercise Program on Dysmetabolism in Older Adults: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14163337. [PMID: 36014843 PMCID: PMC9413492 DOI: 10.3390/nu14163337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical exercise has been shown to improve dysmetabolism in older adults, reducing cardiovascular risk, while its role in preventing dysmetabolism is less known. Moreover, most of the trials use exercise programs that are difficult to put into daily practice. The purpose of this Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) was to evaluate the effectiveness of a 3-month moderate exercise program in improving or preventing dysmetabolism in 120 older adults, randomly selected for the exercise program (experimental group) or cultural activities (control group). None of the subjects were following a hypocaloric diet, and all of them reported healthy eating habits. Anthropometric (Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Circumference (WC)) and metabolic variables (fasting plasma glucose (FPG), High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG)) were assessed at baseline (T0) and at the end of the trial (T1). Dysmetabolism was defined by the presence of an increased WC plus at least two metabolic alterations. At T0, the two groups did not differ by sex, age, education, BMI, WC, FPG, HDL-C levels, and prevalence of dysmetabolism. The mean BMI value indicated overweight, and WC values were higher than the cut-off. At T1, a slight reduction in the number of people with dysmetabolism was found only in the experimental group. However, none of the individuals without dysmetabolism at T0 in the experimental group developed it at T1, while 11.4% developed it in the control group (p = 0.032). This study highlights that a moderate exercise program, accessible in daily practice, can prevent dysmetabolism in older adults, even while being overweight, while if dysmetabolism is already present, more prolonged combined nutritional and exercise interventions will be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Velluzzi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Michele Fosci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberta Montisci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rosanna Zaccheddu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Minerba
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Musu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisa Pintus
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Dario Fortin
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Unitelma Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzalez
- Departamento de Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Valledupar 200002, Colombia
| | - Paola Melis
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Deledda
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Loviselli
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
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31
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Carta MG, Orrù G, Peracchia A, Cossu G, Velluzzi F, Atzori L, Ferreli C, Ivan Aviles Gonzalez C, Romano F, Littera R, Puxeddu R, Chessa L, Firinu D, Del Giacco S, Restivo A, Deidda S, Scano A, Coghe F, Minerba L, Manconi M, Saba L. Differences in lethality and diffusion of Covid-19 in countries using different kinds of vaccines. J Public Health Res 2022; 11:22799036221107062. [PMID: 36105780 PMCID: PMC9465600 DOI: 10.1177/22799036221107062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To verify if lethality and diffusivity of Covid-19 correlated with percentage of
people vaccinated in different countries and whether results on these indicators
were comparable under different types of vaccines. A linear regression analysis
was conducted between vaccines/inhabitant, new cases/inhabitants and ratio
deaths/cases. A comparison between the three indicators was carried out in
countries subdivided by kind of vaccine. The proportion of
vaccinations/inhabitants correlates negatively with proportion of deaths × 100
cases (R = −3.90, p < 0.0001), but didn’t
on incidence of new cases. Countries with prevalence of mRNA vaccines were
similar to others on incidence of new cases; but a lower lethality of Sars-Cov2
was found than in countries with prevalence of viral vehicle vaccines
(F = 6.064, p = 0.0174) but didn’t against
countries with prevalence of inactivated vaccines. The higher is the proportion
of vaccine/inhabitant in a given country, the less is the fraction of infected
people who die.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ambra Peracchia
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fernanda Velluzzi
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Atzori
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Caterina Ferreli
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Littera
- Department of Medical Genetic, R. Binaghi Hospital of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Puxeddu
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Angelo Restivo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Simona Deidda
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scano
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Minerba
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Manconi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Aviles-Gonzalez CI, Scano A, Cossu G, Littera R, Campagna M, Deidda S, Romano F, Kalcev G, Firinu D, Meloni F, Carta MG, Del Giacco S, Restivo A, Zorcolo L, Marongiu L, Tamburini G, Maleci A, Orrù G, Chessa L, Brasesco MV. Verifying the Theory of Climate Affecting Lethality of COVID-19 by an Analysis in Two Climatic Zones of Chile. TOPHJ 2022; 15. [DOI: 10.2174/18749445-v15-e2204140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction:
The study of seasonal influences on the COVID-19 pandemic can take advantage of the unique position of Chile and its different climatic profiles in the north-south extension. The purpose is to verify the influence of seasonal climate changes on the COVID-19 in the temperate and sub-arctic areas of Chile.
Methods:
We monitored the evolution of CFR in temperate versus sub-boreal regions, reporting from the John Hopkins University COVID-19 Center on the CFR in each province in midwinter, spring, and early summer.
Results:
CFR worsened from mid-winter to mid-spring in the temperate zone of Chile, while in the sub-boreal area the CFR improves in the same period, (Kruskal Wallis Test, p=0.004). In the temperate zone after the increase in late winter-early spring, CRF tends to stabilize; on the contrary in the sub-boreal zone, there is a more marked tendency to worsen the CFR at the same time (Kruskal Wallis Test, p=0.010). The temperate zone of Chile shows a CFR increasing until spring-like temperate Europe, unlike Europe CFR does not decrease in summer, but the mean minimum temperature in temperate Chile is lower in summer than in temperate Europe. In Patagonian, CFR remains stable or drops from winter to spring but increases in early summer.
Conclusion:
The temperate and sub-boreal zones of Chile have a markedly different CFR variation profile during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Moro MF, Carta MG, Gyimah L, Orrell M, Amissah C, Baingana F, Kofie H, Taylor D, Chimbar N, Coffie M, Cole C, Ansong J, Ohene SA, Tawiah PE, Atzeni M, D’Oca S, Gureje O, Funk M, Drew N, Osei A. A nationwide evaluation study of the quality of care and respect of human rights in mental health facilities in Ghana: results from the World Health Organization QualityRights initiative. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:639. [PMID: 35366832 PMCID: PMC8976418 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13102-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In 2012, Ghana ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and enacted a Mental Health Act to improve the quality of mental health care and stop human rights violations against people with mental health conditions. In line with these objectives, Ghanaian stakeholders collected data on the quality of mental health services and respect for human rights in psychiatric facilities to identify challenges and gather useful information for the development of plans aimed to improve the quality of the services offered. This study aimed to assess psychiatric facilities from different Ghanaian regions and provide evidence on the quality of care and respect of human rights in mental health services. Methods Assessments were conducted by independent visiting committees that collected data through observation, review of documentation, and interviews with service users, staff, and carers, and provided scores using the World Health Organization QualityRights Toolkit methodology. Results This study revealed significant key challenges in the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities principles in Ghanaian psychiatric services. The rights to an adequate standard of living and enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health were not fully promoted. Only initial steps had been taken to guarantee the right to exercise legal capacity and the right to personal liberty and security. Significant gaps in the promotion of the right to live independently and be included in the community were identified. Conclusions This study identifies shortcomings and critical areas that the Ghanaian government and facilities need to target for implementing a human rights-based approach in mental health and improve the quality of mental health care throughout the country.
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Carta MG, Moro MF, Sancassiani F, Ganassi R, Melis P, Perra A, D’Oca S, Atzeni M, Velluzzi F, Ferreli C, Atzori L, Gonzalez CIA, Serrentino MR, Angermeyer MC, Cossu G. Respect for service users’ human rights, job satisfaction, and wellbeing are higher in mental health workers than in other health workers: A study in Italy at time of the Covid pandemic. J Public Health Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/22799036221107060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the respect for users’ rights, job satisfaction, and well-being between mental health workers (MHWs) compared to non-mental health care workers (nMHWs) from the same Italian region. Methods: The sample was recruited from community mental health and non-mental health outpatient centers in Sardinia. Participants fulfilled the WellBeing at work and respect for human-rights questionnaire (WWRR). The sample included 240 MHWs and 154 nMHWs. Results: MHWs were more satisfied with their work and workplace compared to nMHWs. MHWs had stronger beliefs that users were satisfied with the care received, and both workers and users’ human rights were respected in their workplace. MHWs reported to need more rehabilitation therapists and psychologists in their services, while nMHWs needed more nurses and professionals for users’ personal care. Italian MHWs are more satisfied with their work and workplace, and more convinced that users are satisfied with the care received and that users’ and staff human rights are respected in their workplaces, compared to nMHWs. Conclusions: The historic link between the community mental health network and other support networks in Italy and the consequent perception of proximity to the citizens of the care network may be the reason for this optimal situation of Italian MHWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | | | - Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Ruben Ganassi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Paola Melis
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Alessandra Perra
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Silvia D’Oca
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Michela Atzeni
- International Ph.D. in Innovation Sciences and Technologies, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fernanda Velluzzi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Caterina Ferreli
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | - Laura Atzori
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | | | - Maria Roberta Serrentino
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
| | | | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy
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Carta MG, Orrù G, Barberini L. War and pandemic: a negative synergism could amplify the catastrophe. J Public Health Res 2022; 11. [PMID: 35332754 PMCID: PMC8991034 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2022.3016] [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: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari.
| | - Luigi Barberini
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari .
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Carta MG, Orrù G, Cossu G, Velluzzi F, Atzori L, Aviles Gonzalez CI, Romano F, Littera R, Chessa L, Firinu D, Del Giacco S, Restivo A, Deidda S, Scano A, Onali S, Kalcev G, Coghe F, Minerba L. Covid-19 vaccines work but other factors play a relevant role: a data analysis on spread and mortality in 24 countries. J Public Health Res 2022; 11. [PMID: 35322646 PMCID: PMC8996068 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2022.2665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim was to outline a methodology to monitor the impact of vaccinations in different countries comparing at two different times within countries and between countries the frequency of new cases and Covid-19 related deaths and the percentage of vaccinations conducted. DESIGN AND METHODS The 25 countries with the largest increase in SARS-CoV-2 cases on 8 August 2021 were evaluated. In each nation was calculated the proportion of Covid-19 deaths divided per new cases x 100 and the proportion of new cases per 1.000 inhabitants on 10 January 2021 (before vaccinations' distribution) and 8 August 2021 (when large percentage of the population had been vaccinated in many countries). RESULTS The study shows that in the countries with the highest number of cases as of 8 August 2021, the proportion of vaccinations carried out in the population correlates negatively with both the proportion between Covid-19 dead people x100 infected people and with the rate of new cases. However, the proportion of vaccinations does not correlate with the differences in the two same indicators considered in the weeks observed, thus additional factors seem to play an important role. CONCLUSIONS This work indicates that mass vaccination is associated with a lower spread of the pandemic and, to greater extent, with a lowering of mortality in infected people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Fernanda Velluzzi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Laura Atzori
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | | | | | - Roberto Littera
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Internal Medicine, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Cagliari.
| | - Angelo Restivo
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari.
| | - Simona Deidda
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari.
| | | | - Simona Onali
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari.
| | - Goce Kalcev
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Ferinando Coghe
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Luigi Minerba
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
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Flore G, Preti A, Carta MG, Deledda A, Fosci M, Nardi AE, Loviselli A, Velluzzi F. Weight Maintenance after Dietary Weight Loss: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effectiveness of Behavioural Intensive Intervention. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14061259. [PMID: 35334917 PMCID: PMC8953094 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
After a low-calorie diet, only 25% of patients succeed in maintaining the result of weight loss for a long time. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to explore whether patients undergoing intensive intervention during the maintenance phase have a greater preservation of the weight achieved during the previous slimming phase than controls. A bibliographic search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases for clinical trials and randomised, controlled trials investigating the role of choice in weight-loss-maintenance strategies. Only studies with a follow-up of at least 12 months were considered. A total of eight studies, for a total of 1454 patients, was identified, each comparing a group that followed a more intensive protocol to a control group. Our metanalysis highlighted that an intensive approach even in the maintenance phase could be important to ensure greater success in the phase following the weight-loss period. However, it should be pointed out that the improvement was not so different from the trend of the respective controls, with a non-statistically significant mean difference of the effect size (0.087; 95% CI −0.016 to 0.190 p = 0.098). This finding, along with the observation of a weight regain in half of the selected studies, suggests this is a long work that has to be started within the weight-loss phase and reinforced during the maintenance phase. The problem of weight control in patients with obesity should be understood as a process of education to a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet to be integrated in the context of a multidisciplinary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Flore
- Obesity Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (A.D.); (M.F.); (A.L.); (F.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-070-6754230
| | - Antonio Preti
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy;
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Andrea Deledda
- Obesity Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (A.D.); (M.F.); (A.L.); (F.V.)
| | - Michele Fosci
- Obesity Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (A.D.); (M.F.); (A.L.); (F.V.)
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil;
| | - Andrea Loviselli
- Obesity Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (A.D.); (M.F.); (A.L.); (F.V.)
| | - Fernanda Velluzzi
- Obesity Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (A.D.); (M.F.); (A.L.); (F.V.)
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Carta MG, Fornaro M, Minerba L, Pau M, Velluzzi F, Atzori L, Aviles Gonzalez CI, Romano F, Littera R, Chessa L, Firinu D, Del Giacco S, Restivo A, Deidda S, Orrù G, Scano A, Onali S, Coghe F, Kalcev G, Cossu G. Previous functional social and behavioral rhythms affect resilience to COVID-19-related stress among old adults. J Public Health Res 2022; 11. [PMID: 35299585 PMCID: PMC8973204 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2022.2768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functioning of Social Behavioral Rhythms (SBRs) may affect resilience toward stressful events across different age groups. However, the impact of SBRs on the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) in elder people is yet to ascertain, representing the aim of the present report. DESIGN AND METHODS Follow-up of a peer-reviewed randomized controlled trial on exercise on old adults (³65 years), concurrent to the onset of the pandemic-related lockdown. Post-RCT evaluations occurred after further 12 and 36 weeks since the beginning of the lockdown phase. People with Major Depressive Episode (MDE) at week-48 (follow-up endpoint) were deemed as cases, people without such condition were considered controls. MDE was ascertained using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9); SBRs functioning at week 12 onward, through the Brief Symptom Rating Scale (BSRS). RESULTS Seventy-nine individuals (53.2%, females) entered the RCT-follow-up phase. The frequency of MDE did not significantly change before versus during lockdown (OR 2.60, CI95%=0.87-9.13). People with BSRS>1 standard deviation of the whole sample score at week-12 had an inflated risk of DE during lockdown (OR=5.6, 95%CI: 1.5-21.4) compared to those with lower BSRS scores. Such odd hold after excluding individuals with MDD at week-12. The post-hoc analysis could be potentially affected by selection bias. CONCLUSIONS Overall, older adults were resilient during the first phase of the pandemic when functioning of pre-lockdown was still preserved, in contrast to the subsequent evaluations when the impairment of daily rhythms was associated with impaired reliance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luigi Minerba
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari.
| | - Fernanda Velluzzi
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Laura Atzori
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | | | | | - Roberto Littera
- Unit of Medical Genetics, R. Binaghi Hospital, Local Public Health and Social Care Unit (ASSL) of Cagliari, Sardinian Regional Company for the Protection of Health (ATS Sardegna), Cagliari.
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Angelo Restivo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari.
| | - Simona Deidda
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari.
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari.
| | | | - Simona Onali
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Ferdinando Coghe
- Clinical Chemical and Microbiology Laboratory, University Hospital of Cagliari.
| | - Goce Kalcev
- International Ph.D in Innovation Sciences and Technologies, University of Cagliari.
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
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Carta MG, Sancassiani F, Bina D, Licciardi M, Cossu G, Nardi AE, Meloni L, Montisci R. Alexithymia is a determinant of early death in the long-term course of post-myocardial infarction. J Public Health Res 2022; 11. [PMID: 35299586 PMCID: PMC8973209 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2022.2803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Among people with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), high alexithymia was associated with delay to hospital arrival. High alexithymia could be a determinant of early death in the long term after STEMI. People with STEMI who participated in a survey in 2011, was tested about the state of life in 2021. The sample was divided into two cohorts (cut-off: TAS- 20≥61 in 2011). The relationship between possible death occurred and having high alexithymia was calculated by comparing the mortality after 10 years in the two cohorts through the Cox’ proportional hazard model. Status in life was verified on 39.3% of the sample. No differences were found regarding age, sex, high alexithymia between individuals on whom it was possible to verify the state in life and in whose it was not. In 2021, among people having high alexithymia in 2011, a higher risk of early death was found (RR=5.75, CI 95% 1.116-29.637). Significance for public health Among people with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), high alexithymia is associated with delay to hospital arrival. High alexithymia could be a determinant of early death in the long term after STEMI. Although the results of this study are preliminary, they highlight a relevant prognostic factor, alexithymia, in relation to the long-term course of post-myocardial infarction, condition responsible for more than 7 million deaths each year. As known, alexithymia may be improved with adequate interventions of recognized efficacy. This means that a significant proportion of early deaths among people with previous STEMI could be avoided through an adequate intervention on alexithymia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Davide Bina
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Marco Licciardi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Laboratory of Panic and Respiration, Institute of Psychiatry of Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (IPUB/UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro.
| | - Luigi Meloni
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
| | - Roberta Montisci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari.
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Carta MG, Aviles Gonzalez CI, Minerba L, Pau M, Musu M, Velluzzi F, Ferreli C, Pintus E, Machado S, Romano F, Vacca V, Preti A, Cossu G, Atzori L. Exercise in Older Adults to Prevent Depressive Symptoms at the Time of Covid-19: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial with Follow-Up. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2022; 18:e174501792112231. [PMID: 37274849 PMCID: PMC10156046 DOI: 10.2174/17450179-v18-e2112231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Background This study aimed to verify, through a randomized controlled trial, whether a medium-intensity mixing/aerobic/anaerobic exercise (accessible to older adults even with mild chronic diseases) can effectively counteract depressive episodes. A characteristic of the trial was that the follow-up coincided (unscheduled) with the lockdown due to Covid-19. Methods Participants (N=120) were randomized into an intervention group, performing physical exercise, and a control group. Participants, aged 65 years and older, belonged to both genders, living at home, and cleared a medical examination, were evaluated with a screening tool to detect depressive episodes, the PHQ9, at pre-treatment, end of the trial (12-week), and follow-up (48-week). Results A decrease in the frequency of depressive episodes after the trial (T1) was found in both groups; however, a statistically significant difference was observed only in the control group (p=0.0039). From T1 to follow-up (conducted during the lockdown), the frequency of depressive episodes increased in the control group, reaching a frequency equal to the time of study entry (p=0.788). In the experimental group, the frequency of depressive episodes did not change at the end of the trial but reached a statistically significant difference compared to the start of the study (p = 0.004) and was higher than the control group (p=0.028). Conclusion Moderate-intensity physical exercise can be conducted safely, benefitting older adults even suffering from mild chronic disorders. Physical exercise seems to guarantee a long-term preventive effect towards depressive symptoms, especially in serious stressful situations such as the lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Clinical Trial Registration Number NCT03858114
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Cesar Ivan Aviles Gonzalez
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
- Universidad del Cesar, Valledupar, Colombia
| | - Luigi Minerba
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica, Chimica e dei Materiali, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Musu
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fernanda Velluzzi
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Caterina Ferreli
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisa Pintus
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sergio Machado
- Department of Sports and Methods Techniques, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Brazil
- Laboratory of Physical Activity Neuroscience, Neurodiversity Institute, Queimados-RJ, Brazil
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Università Roma Sapienza, Roma, Italy
| | - Veronica Vacca
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Preti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Atzori
- Department Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
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Okechukwu CE, Griffiths MD, Carta MG, Nwobodo E, Shariful Islam SM, Forbes M, Berk M, Potenza MN, Banach M, Amamihechineke Grace O, Nwobodo N, La Torre G. Biological and practical considerations regarding circadian rhythm and mental health relationships among nurses working night shifts: a narrative review and recommendations. Riv Psichiatr 2022; 57:67-79. [PMID: 35426425 DOI: 10.1708/3790.37738] [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: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep is a vital physiological process regulated by the circadian clock and homeostatic mechanisms. Shift work is necessary to ensure continuity of healthcare provision. Worldwide, nurses work night shifts on a rotational or permanent basis. OBJECTIVE To analyse the impact of circadian rhythm disruption due to night shift work on the mental wellbeing of nurses. METHODS The literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus electronic databases. Selection criteria include studies published in English between 1997 and 2021 that examined the impact of night-shift work on the mental health of nurses. RESULTS The searches generated a total of 22 records on the PubMed database, and 9 records on the Scopus database, and a total of 31 studies. 29 papers were identified after removal of duplicates. However, 29 articles were screened based on the review of titles and abstracts. 19 articles were identified for full-test review. Seven papers were included in this review. CONCLUSIONS Disrupted circadian rhythms and poor sleep quality and quantity have been identified as two of the most significant elements in the long-term effects of night-shift work on nurses' mental health. Strategies and policies to promote workplace health may reduce the occurrence of mental health disorders among night-shift nurses, whether the shifts are rotational or permanent. Nursing supervisors and hospital administrators should consider developing new guidelines to minimize the negative impact of night shift rotations on mental health and the quality of life among nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Public Health, Clinical and Molecular Medicine, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Edwin Nwobodo
- Department of Human Physiology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria
| | | | - Malcolm Forbes
- The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, Australia
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry and Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, USA - Connecticut Mental Health Center, USA - Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, USA - Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, USA
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Nkoli Nwobodo
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, USA
| | - Giuseppe La Torre
- Department of Public health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
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Husky MM, Bitfoi A, Carta MG, Goelitz D, Koç C, Lesinskiene S, Mihova Z, Otten R, Kovess-Masfety V. Bullying involvement and suicidal ideation in elementary school children across Europe. J Affect Disord 2022; 299:281-286. [PMID: 34915081 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bullying involvement is associated with suicidal ideation among adolescents, yet there are no studies examining this issue among younger children. METHODS The School Children Mental Health in Europe study was conducted in seven countries in 2010 using similar methods to collect cross-sectional data from children, parents, and teachers. Suicidal ideation and thoughts of death were assessed using the Dominic Interactive among children. Parent and teacher reports were used to determine bullying involvement. The sample comprised n = 5,183 children ages 6 to 11 identified as bullies (n = 740, 14.3%), victims (n = 945, 18.2%), bully-victims (n = 984, 18.2%) and not involved in bullying (n = 2,514, 48.5%). Multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the association of bullying involvement with suicidal ideation and thoughts of death. RESULTS Suicidal ideation was reported by 13.3% of those not involved in bullying, 17.1% of victims, 19.6% of bullies and 24.4% of bully-victims. Similarly, thoughts of death were reported by 19.0% of victims, 24.3% of bullies, and 25.0% of bully-victims. Children identified as being involved were more likely than those not involved to report suicidal ideation in bivariate analyses. When controlling for psychopathology and for maternal distress among other factors, the association remained significant for bullies (AOR=1.30, 95%CI=1.01-1.66), bully-victims (AOR=1.54, 95%CI=1.22-1.94), but not for victims (AOR=1.02, 95%CI=0.80-1.30). LIMITATIONS The study is cross-sectional. The assessment of bullying may have underestimated victimization. CONCLUSIONS The association of bullying involvement and child suicidal ideation is present among elementary school children across Europe, using multiple informants to avoid shared variance biases, and adjusting for key factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde M Husky
- Laboratoire de psychologie EA4139, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.
| | - Adina Bitfoi
- The Romanian League for Mental Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Centro di Psichiatria di Consulenza e Psicosomatica Azienda Ospedaliero, Universitaria di Cagliari, Italy
| | - Dietmar Goelitz
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Theology, Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen-Nuernberg, Germany
| | - Ceren Koç
- Yeniden Health and Education Society, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sigita Lesinskiene
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Clinic of Psychiatry, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Roy Otten
- Pluryn, Research & Development, Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Carta MG, Bhugra D. From stigma to forgetfulness: The rights of people with psychosocial disabilities in the new Middle Ages of the Covid era. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 68:9-11. [PMID: 33176528 DOI: 10.1177/0020764020972429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Dinesh Bhugra
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Moro MF, Calamandrei G, Poli R, Di Mattei V, Perra A, Kurotschka PK, Restrepo A, Romano F, La Torre G, Preti E, Mascayano F, Picardi A, Chiarotti F, Rapisarda V, Urban A, Alvarado R, Susser E, Carta MG. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of Healthcare Workers in Italy: Analyzing the Role of Individual and Workplace-Level Factors in the Reopening Phase After Lockdown. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:867080. [PMID: 35722544 PMCID: PMC9200968 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.867080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Italy is one of the high-income countries hit hardest by Covid-19. During the first months of the pandemic, Italian healthcare workers were praised by media and the public for their efforts to face the emergency, although with limited knowledge and resources. However, healthcare workers soon had to face new challenges at a time when the national health system was working hard to recover. This study focuses on this difficult period to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Italian healthcare workers. MATERIALS AND METHODS Healthcare workers from all Italian regions [n = 5,502] completed an online questionnaire during the reopening phase after the first wave lockdown. We assessed a set of individual-level factors (e.g., stigma and violence against HCWs) and a set of workplace-level factors (e.g., trust in the workplace capacity to handle COVID-19) that were especially relevant in this context. The primary outcomes assessed were score ≥15 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and score ≥4 on the General Health Questionnaire-12, indicators of clinically significant depressive symptoms and psychological distress, respectively. Logistic regression analyses were performed on depressive symptoms and psychological distress for each individual- and workplace-level factor adjusting for gender, age, and profession. RESULTS Clinically significant depressive symptoms were observed in 7.5% and psychological distress in 37.9% of HCWs. 30.5% of healthcare workers reported having felt stigmatized or discriminated, while 5.7% reported having experienced violence. Feeling stigmatized or discriminated and experiencing violence due to being a healthcare worker were strongly associated with clinically significant depressive symptoms [OR 2.98, 95%CI 2.36-3.77 and OR 4.72 95%CI 3.41-6.54] and psychological distress [OR 2.30, 95%CI 2.01-2.64 and OR 2.85 95%CI 2.16-3.75]. Numerous workplace-level factors, e.g., trust in the workplace capacity to handle COVID-19 [OR 2.43, 95%CI 1.92-3.07] and close contact with a co-worker who died of COVID-19 [OR 2.05, 95%CI 1.56-2.70] were also associated with clinically significant depressive symptoms. Similar results were found for psychological distress. CONCLUSIONS Our study emphasizes the need to address discrimination and violence against healthcare professionals and improve healthcare work environments to strengthen the national health system's capacity to manage future emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francesca Moro
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Ranieri Poli
- Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata di Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Alexandra Restrepo
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Università La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Torre
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Malattie Infettive, Università La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Franco Mascayano
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, NewYork, NY, United States
| | | | | | | | - Antonio Urban
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ruben Alvarado
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Valparaiso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Ezra Susser
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States.,New York State Psychiatric Institute, NewYork, NY, United States
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Kovess-Masfety V, Woodward MJ, Keyes K, Bitfoi A, Carta MG, Koç C, Lesinskiene S, Mihova Z, Otten R, Husky M. Correction to: Gender, the gender gap, and their interaction; analysis of relationships with children's mental health problems. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2022; 57:219. [PMID: 34652460 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-021-02180-z] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Miriam J Woodward
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Katherine Keyes
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adina Bitfoi
- The Romanian League for Mental Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Centro di Psichiatria di Consulenza e Psicosomatica Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Ceren Koç
- Yeniden Health and Education Society, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sigita Lesinskiene
- Clinic of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Vilnius, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Roy Otten
- Behavioural Science Institute, Pluryn, Research and Development, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde Husky
- Laboratoire de Psychologie EA4139, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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Aviles Gonzalez CI, Angermeyer M, Deiana L, Loi C, Murgia E, Holzinger A, Cossu G, Massa E, Romano F, Scartozzi M, Carta MG. The Quality of Life of People with Solid Cancer is Less Worse than Other Diseases with better Prognosis, Except in the Presence of Depression. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2021; 17:315-323. [PMID: 35444707 PMCID: PMC8985466 DOI: 10.2174/1745017902117010315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Background: Suffering from Solid Cancer (SC) may adversely impact the Health-related Quality of Life (H-QoL). The aims of this study are to measure the H-QoL in a sample of people suffering from SC and to clarify the role of the co-occurrence of depressive episodes. Results were compared with a healthy control group and with groups of other disorders. Methods: In 151 patients with SC (mean±sd age 63.1±11.5; female 54.3%), H-QoL was assessed by SF-12, depressive episodes were identified by PHQ-9. The attributable burden of SC in impairing H-QoL was calculated as the difference between SF-12 score of a community sex and age ¼ matched healthy control group and that of the study sample. The attributable burden of SC was compared with other chronic diseases using specific diagnostic groups drawn from case-control studies that used the same database for selecting control samples. Results: H-QoL in people with SC was significantly worse than in the healthy control group (p<0.0001). The attributable burden in worsening the H-QoL due to SC was similar to those of severe chronic diseases, but lower than Multiple Sclerosis (p<0.0001) or Fibromyalgia (p<0.00001). Having a depressive episode was a strong determinant of decreasing H-QoL, regardless of the severity of cancer. Conclusion: The findings confirm a strong impact of SC but showed that H-QoL in SC was higher than in chronic diseases with better “quoad vitam” outcome. Since depression was a strong determinant, its prevention, early detection and therapy are the main objectives that must be reached in cancer patients.
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Firinu D, Perra A, Campagna M, Littera R, Meloni F, Sedda F, Conti M, Costanzo G, Erbi M, Usai G, Locci C, Carta MG, Cappai R, Orrù G, Del Giacco S, Coghe F, Chessa L. Evaluation of Antibody Response to Heterologous Prime-Boost Vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and BNT162b2: An Observational Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9121478. [PMID: 34960224 PMCID: PMC8704060 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9121478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In several countries, thrombotic events after vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 have led to heterologous messenger RNA (mRNA) boosting. We tested the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein four weeks after heterologous priming with the ChAdOx1 (ChAd) vector vaccine followed by boosting with BNT162b2(ChAd/BNT), comparing data of homologous regimen (BNT/BNT, ChAd/ChAd) subjects positive for SARS-CoV-2 after the first dose of BNT162b2 (BNT1dose/CoV2) and convalescent COVID-19. Methods: healthy subjects naïve for SARS-CoV-2 infection were assessed for serum IgG anti-S-RBD response 21 days after priming (T1), 4 (TFULL) and 15 (T15W) weeks after booster dose. Results: The median IgG anti-S-RBD levels at TFULL of Chad/BNT group were significantly higher than the BNT/BNT group and ChAd/ChAd. Those of BNT/BNT group were significantly higher than ChAd/ChAd. IgG anti-S-RBD of BNT1dose/CoV2 group were similar to BNT/BNT, ChAd/BNT and ChAd/Chad group. The levels among COVID-19 convalescents were significantly lower than ChAd/BNT, BNT/BNT, ChAd/Chad and BNT1dose/CoV2. The proportion of subjects reaching an anti-S-RBD titer >75 AU/mL, correlated with high neutralizing titer, was 94% in ChAd/BNT and BNT/BNT, 60% in BNT1dose/CoV2, 25% in ChAd/ChAd and 4.2% in convalescents. At T15W the titer of ChAd/BNT was still significantly higher than other vaccine schedules, while the anti-S-RBD decline was reduced for ChAd/ChAd and similar for other combinations. Conclusion: Our data highlight the magnitude of IgG anti-S-RBD response in ChAd/BNT dosing, supporting the current national guidelines for heterologous boosting
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-070-5109-6128; Fax: +39-070-5109-6227
| | - Andrea Perra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (F.S.)
- Associazione per l’Avanzamento della Ricerca per i Trapianti O.d.V., Non Profit Organisation, 09100 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Marcello Campagna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Roberto Littera
- Associazione per l’Avanzamento della Ricerca per i Trapianti O.d.V., Non Profit Organisation, 09100 Cagliari, Italy;
- Medical Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Federico Meloni
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Francesca Sedda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (A.P.); (F.S.)
| | - Maria Conti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Giulia Costanzo
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Monica Erbi
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Gianmario Usai
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Carlotta Locci
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Riccardo Cappai
- Laboratory Clinical Chemical Analysis and Microbiology, University Hospital of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (R.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Germano Orrù
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
| | - Ferdinando Coghe
- Laboratory Clinical Chemical Analysis and Microbiology, University Hospital of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (R.C.); (F.C.)
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy; (M.C.); (F.M.); (M.C.); (G.C.); (M.E.); (G.U.); (C.L.); (M.G.C.); (G.O.); (S.D.G.); (L.C.)
- Associazione per l’Avanzamento della Ricerca per i Trapianti O.d.V., Non Profit Organisation, 09100 Cagliari, Italy;
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Marchetti MF, Carlo MD, Sancassiani F, Tramontin C, Corda M, Sanbenedetto M, Carta MG, Cirio E, Meloni L, Montisci R. 650 Quality of life of patients with end stage heart failure treated with left ventricular assist devices. Eur Heart J Suppl 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/suab139.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Aims
Nowadays continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have become a reality for patients with end-stage heart failure (HF) who are failing maximal medical treatment, both eligible or not for heart transplantation. LVADs have demonstrated to improve functional capacity and clinical outcomes, including breathing and activity tolerance, but the impact on patients quality of life (QoL) is still a vexed and open question. Moreover, the device implantation actually requires significant life style changes, high motivation and adherence to treatment, both for patients and their caregivers. Patients must learn to live with the device and to interface with the controller and batteries system, adjusting everyday life’s activities to the device presence. The purpose of our study is to evaluate how the implantation of HeartMate 3™ impact on patients-related QoL and clinical outcomes, compared with general population and other chronic diseases.
Methods and results
Eight patients (pts) with a diagnosis of end-stage HF were implanted with the HeartMate 3™ LVAD from May 2017 to October 2019 in the Cardiac Surgery Unit of Brotzu Hospital. During a follow-up visit (28.7 ± 11.9 months after surgery), the 7 pts presenting were assessed with two questionnaires, the SF-12 and EuroQoL-5D, in order to evaluate improvement of quality of life compared with clinical presentation. Afterwards we compared the average SF-12 total result with 28 controls from general population and with other important chronic diseases. The analysis of SF-12 questionnaires showed an average of 28.00 ± 8.98 (VN: 12–47) as total score, 11.7 ± 3.4 (VN: 6–20) as physical health component score and 16.2 ± 6.5 (VN: 6–27) as mental health component score. These findings, though within the range of ‘normality’, are closer to the lower scores and show the negative impact of LVAD in everyday patients-related quality of life. Comparing the NYHA functional class with these results, we found a statistically significant negative linear correlation for both total (−0.80, P = 0.03) and mental health component scores (−0.75, P = 0.049). Average total score of our pts significatively differs compared with 28 controls of general population (28.00 ± 8.98 vs. 38.64 ± 6.80, P = 0.014), as well as compared with other chronic diseases like Wilson’s disease (P < 0.001), celiac disease (P < 0.001), obsessive-compulsive disorder (P < 0.001), panic disorder (P < 0.001), major depressive disorder (P = 0.009), multiple sclerosis (P < 0.011), food disorders (P = 0.023), and carotid atherosclerosis (P = 0.049). The EuroQoL-5D questionnaire investigates five particular ‘dimensions’ of the subjectively perceived health-related quality of life (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression) and shows similar. We found a poor average score at Visual Analogue Scale (58.5 ± 18.86) and a statistically significant negative linear correlation with NYHA functional class (−0.76, P = 0.046). The 42.86% referred no pain or discomfort and in the other four dimensions most of them reported ‘moderate limitations’, both physical or mental, especially for self-care domain (85.71%), as inevitable result of the device’s size.
Conclusions
LVAD can improve clinical outcomes and functional capacity of carefully select pts with end-stage HF, but the complications encountered during mechanical support and the lifestyle changes required can affect negatively patients well-being. Many studies have shown that most patients experience significant improvement even in QoL’s perception but for others the device have a negative impact on many aspects of normal daily living as well as emotional, mental and social functioning. Our study confirms this conflicting results: physical related-quality of life improves after LVAD implantation but emotional and psychological distress may persist, especially during long-term support, as a result of complications, co-morbidities and personal’s attitudes, values and way of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Di Carlo
- Clinical Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | - Marco Corda
- Cardiology Unit, Brotzu Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Matteo Sanbenedetto
- Clinical Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | - Luigi Meloni
- Clinical Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberta Montisci
- Clinical Cardiology Unit, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, Italy
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The quest toward more effective treatments for bipolar disorder (BD) solicits novel drugs and further research on the underpinning neurobiology. The present review aims to critically appraise the existing evidence about the pharmacological treatment of BD toward the development of novel treatment avenues. AREAS COVERED The present review appraises animal and human studies concerning both the currently available psychotropic drugs, and the general medicine drugs which may represent a path toward the development of novel drugs for BD. PubMed and Scopus were last accessed on February 20th, 2021 for records indexed upon inception relevant to the pharmacological treatment of BD. Immune-modulating agents, anti-inflammatory agents, and glutamate antagonists represent the most intriguing potential targets for the development of new drugs for BD, thus receiving critical appraisal in the present text. EXPERT OPINION Regardless of the neurobiological pathways worthy of investigation toward the development of experimental drugs for BD, several unmet needs need to be addressed first. In particular, several biomarkers are altered in BD. However, it is the opinion herein expressed by the authors that it remains uncertain what comes first, that is peripheral changes or the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Public Health, Clinical and Molecular Medicine, University of Cagliari, Cagliari Italy
| | - Goce Kalcev
- Department of Mechanical, Chemical and Materials Engineering, International Ph.D. In Innovation Sciences and Technologies, University of Cagliari, Cagliari Italy
| | - Michele Fornaro
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Federico II of Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Laboratory Panic and Respiration, Institute of Psychiatry (Ipub), Federal University of Rio De Janeiro (Ufrj), Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
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Carta MG, Cossu G, Pintus E, Zaccheddu R, Callia O, Conti G, Pintus M, Aviles Gonzalez CI, Massidda MV, Mura G, Sardu C, Contu P, Minerba L, Demontis R, Pau M, Finco G, Cocco E, Penna MP, Orr G, Kalcev G, Cabras F, Lorrai S, Loviselli A, Velluzzi F, Monticone M, Cacace E, Musu M, Rongioletti F, Cauli A, Ruggiero V, Scano A, Crisafulli A, Cosentino S, Atzori L, Massa E, Mela Q, Fortin D, Migliaccio G, Machado S, Romano F, Preti A. Moderate Exercise Improves Cognitive Function in Healthy Elderly People: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2021; 17:75-80. [PMID: 34733346 PMCID: PMC8493830 DOI: 10.2174/1745017902117010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Physical activity in the elderly is recommended by international guidelines to protect against cognitive decline and functional impairment. Objective This Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) was set up to verify whether medium-intensity physical activity in elderly people living in the community is effective in improving cognitive performance. Design RCT with parallel and balanced large groups. Setting Academic university hospital and Olympic gyms. Subjects People aged 65 years old and older of both genders living at home holding a medical certificate for suitability in non-competitive physical activity. Methods Participants were randomized to a 12-week, 3 sessions per week moderate physical activity program or to a control condition focused on cultural and recreational activities in groups of the same size and timing as the active intervention group. The active phase integrated a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic exercises, including drills of "life movements", strength and balance. The primary outcome was: any change in Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination Revised (ACE-R) and its subscales. Results At the end of the trial, 52 people completed the active intervention, and 53 people completed the control condition. People in the active intervention improved on the ACE-R (ANOVA: F(1;102)=4.32, p=0.040), and also showed better performances on the memory (F(1;102)=5.40 p=0.022) and visual-space skills subscales of the ACE-R (F(1;102)=4.09 p=0.046). Conclusion A moderate-intensity exercise administered for a relatively short period of 12 weeks is capable of improving cognitive performance in a sample of elderly people who live independently in their homes.Clinical Trials Registration No: NCT03858114.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elisa Pintus
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rosanna Zaccheddu
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Omar Callia
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giuliana Conti
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mirra Pintus
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Maria Valeria Massidda
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Department of Medical Sciences and Publcic Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Chimica e Dei Materiali, Cagliari, Italy.,Department of Education, University of Cagliari, Psychology and Philosophy, Cagliari, Italy.,Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy.,Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano, Sezione Sardegna, Rome, Italy.,Departament of Sports Methods and Techniques, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, Brazil.,Laboratory of Physical Activity Neuroscience, Neurodiversity Institute, Queimados-RJ, Brazil.,Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy.,Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università degli studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Gioia Mura
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Claudia Sardu
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Paolo Contu
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luigi Minerba
- Department of Medical Sciences and Publcic Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Demontis
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Pau
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Meccanica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Chimica e Dei Materiali, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Finco
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Eleonora Cocco
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Germano Orr
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Goce Kalcev
- Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano, Sezione Sardegna, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Cabras
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Lorrai
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Andrea Loviselli
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fernanda Velluzzi
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Monticone
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enrico Cacace
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Mario Musu
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Franco Rongioletti
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alberto Cauli
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Valeria Ruggiero
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scano
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Antonio Crisafulli
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sofia Cosentino
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Atzori
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Elena Massa
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli studi di Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Quirico Mela
- Department of Medical Sciences and Publcic Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Dario Fortin
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Sergio Machado
- Departament of Sports Methods and Techniques, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, Brazil.,Laboratory of Physical Activity Neuroscience, Neurodiversity Institute, Queimados-RJ, Brazil
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Preti
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università degli studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
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