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Cianci S, Gulino FA, Palmara V, La Verde M, Ronsini C, Romeo P, Occhipinti S, Incognito GG, Capozzi VA, Restaino S, Vizzielli G, Palumbo M. Exploring Surgical Strategies for Uterine Fibroid Treatment: A Comprehensive Review of Literature on Open and Minimally Invasive Approaches. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 60:64. [PMID: 38256325 PMCID: PMC10820219 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Uterine myomas represent one of the most prevalent pathologies affecting the female population. These benign neoplasms originate from the smooth muscular cells of the uterus, and they can be either single or multiple. Often associated with debilitating symptoms such as pelvic heaviness, pain, constipation, and urinary dysfunctions, the surgical management of myomectomy exhibits considerable variability. This diversity in approaches is influenced by factors such as the number and size of myomas, the patient's age, and overall clinical conditions. This study aims to elucidate and compare the advantages and disadvantages of different surgical approaches, specifically endoscopic procedures versus open surgery, providing valuable insights for clinical decision making. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive bibliographic search spanning from 2013 to 2023 was systematically conducted across databases including Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The search utilized keywords such as "myomectomy laparoscopic and open", "myomectomy open and minimally invasive", "myomectomy open and laparoscopic", and "myomectomy open vs. laparoscopic." The research methodology, along with predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, was established prior to the search, ensuring a systematic and rigorous approach. Subsequently, data analysis was carried out. Results: Following the study selection process, 25 articles met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in this analysis. The average numbers of myomas were 3.7 (ranging from 1 to 13.7) and 5.4 (ranging from 1 to 13.5) for the minimally invasive surgery and open surgery groups, respectively. In terms of myoma size, the total averages across studies were 7 cm (ranging from 4.8 to 14) for the minimally invasive group and 8 cm (ranging from 3.9 to 11.2) for the open surgery group. The average pregnancy and delivery rates were 29.7% (ranging from 1.8 to 100) for the minimally invasive group and 28.5% (ranging from 1.8 to 100) for the open surgery group. Regarding complications, the average rate was 14.2% (ranging from 0 to 50) for the endoscopic group and 22.3% (ranging from 0 to 60.3) for the laparotomic group. Conclusions: In conclusion, a critical factor influencing the choice of surgical approach is primarily the size and quantity of fibroids. The mini-laparotomic approach emerges as a viable alternative to endoscopy, demonstrating favorable surgical outcomes and aesthetic results. Interestingly, the type of surgical procedure appears to have no significant impact on the pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Cianci
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (V.P.); (P.R.)
| | - Ferdinando Antonio Gulino
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (V.P.); (P.R.)
| | - Vittorio Palmara
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (V.P.); (P.R.)
| | - Marco La Verde
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.L.V.); (C.R.)
| | - Carlo Ronsini
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.L.V.); (C.R.)
| | - Paola Romeo
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (V.P.); (P.R.)
| | - Sara Occhipinti
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (S.O.); (G.G.I.); (M.P.)
| | - Giosuè Giordano Incognito
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (S.O.); (G.G.I.); (M.P.)
| | - Vito Andrea Capozzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy;
| | - Stefano Restaino
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy; (S.R.); (G.V.)
| | - Giuseppe Vizzielli
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Santa Maria della Misericordia” University Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy; (S.R.); (G.V.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Palumbo
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy; (S.O.); (G.G.I.); (M.P.)
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Mammarella V, Orecchio S, Cameli N, Occhipinti S, Marcucci L, De Meo G, Innocenti A, Ferri R, Bruni O. Using pharmacotherapy to address sleep disturbances in autism spectrum disorders. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:1261-1276. [PMID: 37811652 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2267761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sleep disorders are the second most common medical comorbidity in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), with effects on daytime behavior and functioning, mood and anxiety, and autism core features. In children with ASD, insomnia also has a negative impact on the whole family's quality of life. Therefore, treatment of sleep disturbances should be considered as a primary goal in the management of ASD patients, and it is important to clarify the scientific evidence to inappropriate treatments. AREAS COVERED The authors review the current literature concerning the pharmacological treatment options for the management of sleep-related disorders in patients with ASD (aged 0-18 years) using the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases with the search terms: autism, autistic, autism spectrum disorder, ASD, drug, drug therapy, drug intervention, drug treatment, pharmacotherapy, pharmacological treatment, pharmacological therapy, pharmacological intervention, sleep, sleep disturbance, and sleep disorder. EXPERT OPINION Currently, clinicians tend to select medications for the treatment of sleep disorders in ASD based on the first-hand experience of psychiatrists and pediatricians as well as expert opinion. Nevertheless, at the present time, the only compound for which there is sufficient evidence is melatonin, although antihistamines, trazodone, clonidine, ramelteon, gabapentin, or suvorexant can also be considered for selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Mammarella
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Orecchio
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Noemi Cameli
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Occhipinti
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Lavinia Marcucci
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuliano De Meo
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Alice Innocenti
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Ferri
- Sleep Research Centre, Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Oliviero Bruni
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
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Riccardo F, Tarone L, Barutello G, Arigoni M, Giacobino D, Iussich S, Occhipinti S, Ferrone S, Buracco P, Cavallo F. Anti-CSPG4 DNA vaccination as a promising strategy for the treatment of CSPG4+ tumours: A comparative oncology trial. Ann Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdz253.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Davis M, Oaten M, Occhipinti S, Chambers SK, Stevenson RJ. An investigation of the emotion of disgust as an affective barrier to intention to screen for colorectal cancer. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2016; 26. [PMID: 27704647 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening participation remains unacceptably low. This study investigated the emotion of disgust as a potential deterrent to intention to screen for CRC. The study utilised a convenience sample of individuals' 40-70 years of age to complete an online survey. Participants included 30 men and 118 women recruited between December 1, 2013 and March 31, 2014. Data on socio-demographics, health status, screening intentions and emotional barriers to bowel screening were collected via an on-line survey. Logistic regression analysis was utilised to investigate predictors of screening intention. Individuals were more likely to report intention to screen if they had prior screening experience, and reported fewer emotional concerns to screening for CRC. Results implicate disgust as a predictor of screening avoidance among participants. Specifically, higher reported faecal disgust was predictive of a 3% decrease in screening intention. This study was the first to empirically position disgust alongside other negative emotional states as an affective barrier to screening for CRC. Trait disgust sensitivity was not a reliable predictor of screening intention. This research suggests that anticipated faecal disgust may contribute to avoidance of screening for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Davis
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - M Oaten
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - S Occhipinti
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - S K Chambers
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - R J Stevenson
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Hyde MK, Newton RU, Galvão DA, Gardiner RA, Occhipinti S, Lowe A, Wittert GA, Chambers SK. Men's help-seeking in the first year after diagnosis of localised prostate cancer. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2016; 26. [PMID: 27111695 PMCID: PMC5347946 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This study describes sources of support utilised by men with localised prostate cancer in the first year after diagnosis and examines characteristics associated with help‐seeking for men with unmet needs. A cross‐sectional survey of 331 patients from a population‐based sample who were in the first year after diagnosis (M = 9.6, SD = 1.9) was conducted to assess sources of support, unmet supportive care needs, domain‐specific quality of life and psychological distress. Overall, 82% of men reported unmet supportive care needs. The top five needs were sexuality (58%); prostate cancer‐specific (57%); psychological (47%); physical and daily living (41%); and health system and information (31%). Professional support was most often sought from doctors (51%). Across most domains, men who were older (Ps ≤ 0.03), less well educated (Ps ≤ 0.04) and more depressed (Ps ≤ 0.05) were less likely to seek help for unmet needs. Greater sexual help‐seeking was related to better sexual function (P = 0.03), higher education (P ≤ 0.03) and less depression (P = 0.05). Unmet supportive care needs are highly prevalent after localised prostate cancer diagnosis with older age, lower education and higher depression apparent barriers to help‐seeking. Interventions that link across medicine, nursing and community based peer support may be an accessible approach to meeting these needs. Clinical Trial Registry: Trial Registration: ACTRN12611000392965.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Hyde
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Qld.,Cancer Council Queensland, Fortitude Valley, Qld
| | - R U Newton
- Exercise Medicine Research Institute, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA.,University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld
| | - D A Galvão
- Exercise Medicine Research Institute, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA
| | - R A Gardiner
- Exercise Medicine Research Institute, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA.,University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld.,Department of Urology, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Qld
| | - S Occhipinti
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Qld
| | - A Lowe
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Qld.,Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, St Leonards, NSW
| | - G A Wittert
- Freemasons Foundation Centre for Men's Health, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - S K Chambers
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Qld.,Cancer Council Queensland, Fortitude Valley, Qld.,Exercise Medicine Research Institute, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA.,University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld.,Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, St Leonards, NSW
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6
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Catanzaro R, Anzalone M, Calabrese F, Milazzo M, Capuana M, Italia A, Occhipinti S, Marotta F. The gut microbiota and its correlations with the central nervous system disorders. Panminerva Med 2015; 57:127-43. [PMID: 25390799 DOI: pmid/25390799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A mutual impact of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and central nervous system (CNS) functions has been recognized since the mid-twentieth century. It is accepted that the so-called gut-brain axis provides a two-way homeostatic communication, through immunological, hormonal and neuronal signals. A dysfunction of this axis has been associated with the pathogenesis of some diseases both within and outside the GIT, that have shown an increase in incidence over the last decades. Studies comparing germ-free animals and animals exposed to pathogenic bacterial infections, probiotics or antibiotics suggest the participation of the microbiota in this communication and a role in host defense, regulation of immunity and autoimmune disease appearance. The GIT could represent a vulnerable area through which pathogens influence all aspects of physiology and even induce CNS neuro-inflammation. All those concepts may suggest the modulation of the gut microbiota as an achievable strategy for innovative therapies in complex disorders. Moving from this background, the present review discusses the relationship between intestinal microbiota and CNS and the effects in health and disease. We particularly look at how the commensal gut microbiota influences systemic immune response in some neurological disorders, highlighting its impact on pain and cognition in multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barrè Syndrome, neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders and Alzheimer's disease. In this review we discuss recent studies showing that the potential microbiota-gut-brain dialogue is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases. Gaining a better understanding of the relationship between microbiota and CNS could provide an insight on the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Catanzaro
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences, Institute of Internal Medicine "A. Francaviglia", University of Catania, "G. Rodolico" Hospital, Catania, Italy -
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7
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Minelli R, Occhipinti S, Gigliotti CL, Barrera G, Gasco P, Conti L, Chiocchetti A, Zara GP, Fantozzi R, Giovarelli M, Dianzani U, Dianzani C. Solid lipid nanoparticles of cholesteryl butyrate inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo models. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 170:233-44. [PMID: 23713413 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Solid lipid nanoparticles containing cholesteryl butyrate (cholbut SLN) can be a delivery system for the anti-cancer drug butyrate. These nanoparticles inhibit adhesion of polymorphonuclear and tumour cells to endothelial cells and migration of tumour cells, suggesting that they may act as anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour agents. Here we have evaluated the effects of cholbut SLN on tumour cell growth using in vitro and in vivo models. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cholbut SLNs were incubated with cultures of four tumour cell lines, and cell growth was analysed by assessing viability, clonogenic capacity and cell cycle. Effects on intracellular signalling was assessed by Western blot analysis of Akt expression. The in vivo anti-tumour activity was measured in two models of PC-3 cell xenografts in SCID/Beige mice. KEY RESULTS Cholbut SLN inhibited tumour cell line viability, clonogenic activity, Akt phosphorylation and cell cycle progression. In mice injected i.v. with PC3-Luc cells and treated with cholbut SLN, . in vivo optical imaging and histological analysis showed no metastases in the lungs of the treated mice. In another set of mice injected s.c. with PC-3 cells and treated with cholbut SLN when the tumour diameter reached 2 mm, analysis of the tumour dimensions showed that treatment with cholbut SLN substantially delayed tumour growth. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Cholbut SLN were effective in inhibiting tumour growth in vitro and in vivo. These effects may involve, in part, inhibition of Akt phosphorylation, which adds another mechanism to the activity of this multipotent drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Minelli
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
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Catanzaro R, Occhipinti S, Calabrese F, Anzalone MG, Milazzo M, Italia A, Marotta F. Irritable bowel syndrome: new findings in pathophysiological and therapeutic field. MINERVA GASTROENTERO 2014; 60:151-63. [PMID: 24780949 DOI: pmid/24780949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a high prevalence disease, whose symptoms are reported by a large number of young adults with significant effects on quality of life and social costs. Traditionally, IBS has been treated with dietary and lifestyle modification, fiber supplementation, psychological and pharmacological therapy. Since its complex and multifactorial etiopathogenesis is only partially known, therapeutic choices may be difficult and not always effective. New research efforts focused on the role of relationship between central nervous system and gut disorders (brain-gut axis), altered composition of gut microbiota (e.g. an eight times increased risk for IBS after Salmonella infection), immune activation with an increased number of T lymphocytes and mast cells associated with mucosa as well as an increased level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IL-12, suggesting Th1 polarization), visceral hypersensitivity causing perception of pain even for minimal abdominal distension. Based on these findings, new possibilities of treatment are emerging with encouraging outcomes. Attention is directed to drugs that showed good tolerability profile and poor systemic absorption, which may make them suitable for repeated or long term treatments, as frequently required in patients with IBS. They have been successfully used drugs such as tachykinin receptors antagonists, tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitors, bile acid sequestrants, µ agonist and δ antagonist opioid receptors. Recent studies are discussed in this review, focusing both on new therapeutic approaches and innovative adaptation of previously available treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Catanzaro
- Section of Gastroenterology Department of Medical and Pediatric Sciences Institute of Internal Medicine "A. Francaviglia" University of Catania, "G. Rodolico" Hospital, Catania, Italy -
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McDowell ME, Occhipinti S, Gardiner RA, Chambers SK. Prevalence and predictors of cancer specific distress in men with a family history of prostate cancer. Psychooncology 2013; 22:2496-504. [PMID: 23712946 DOI: 10.1002/pon.3312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2012] [Revised: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 04/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine prevalence and predictors of cancer-specific distress in undiagnosed men with and without a family history of prostate cancer, and to examine the contribution of perceptions of an affected relative's cancer experience on the distress of unaffected male relatives. METHODS Men with a first degree relative with prostate cancer (n = 207) and men without a family history (n = 239) from Australia completed a Computer Assisted Telephone Interview. Participants completed the Prostate Cancer Anxiety Subscale of the Memorial Anxiety Scale for Prostate Cancer, measures of perceived risk, and socio-demographic information. Men with a family history provided details about their family history (number of relatives diagnosed with and dead from prostate cancer, relationship to affected relative, months since diagnosis) and reported their perceptions of their affected relative's prostate cancer experience including perceptions of threat related to the relative's diagnosis and perceived treatment phase and prognosis. RESULTS Cancer-specific distress was low for all men and there was no significant difference in the distress experienced by men with and without a family history. Regression analyses showed that for all men, cancer-specific distress increased with urinary symptoms and decreased in those with higher education and in older participants. For men with a family history, having a relative who died from prostate cancer and perceiving greater threat from a relative's diagnosis was associated with greater cancer-specific distress. CONCLUSIONS Interventions would benefit from examining appraisals of familial risk and examining prospective assessments of distress in the unaffected male relatives of men with prostate cancer over the course of the cancer trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E McDowell
- Griffith Health Institute, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Legg M, Occhipinti S, Ferguson M, Dunn J, Chambers SK. When peer support may be most beneficial: the relationship between upward comparison and perceived threat. Psychooncology 2010; 20:1358-62. [PMID: 20967849 DOI: 10.1002/pon.1862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 09/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Currently, the mechanism by which dyadic peer support programs may facilitate positive psychological adjustment for cancer patients is unclear. This study utilized social comparison theory to examine the effects of peer support on the psychological adjustment of women with breast cancer. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of 251 recently diagnosed breast cancer patients (52% response), who had received a dyadic peer support intervention, was undertaken assessing anxiety, depression, perceived threat, and upward comparison. RESULTS Perceived cancer threat significantly moderated the relationship between positive upward comparison and depression levels (p = 0.017). Women who engaged in upward comparisons and who perceived their diagnosis to be more threatening had lower depression levels than women who were less threatened. CONCLUSIONS Peer support services that provide support from cancer survivors may be especially beneficial for people who appraise their cancer diagnosis as more threatening. The application of theoretical models to future evaluation designs will further increase understanding of the psychological mechanisms involved in the effects of peer support and inform program development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Legg
- School of Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patient Reported Outcome (PRO) assessments can assist health professionals to tailor their health practices to the individual needs of patients and improve patient care over time. The present study assessed prospective predictors of unmet supportive care needs in cancer patients over a six-month period. METHODS Participants were recruited from a regional cancer treatment centre in Australia and completed the Supportive Care Needs Survey (SCNS) at recruitment (n=439; 61.4% response rate) and six months follow-up (n=396). Hierarchical logistic regression was used to identify predictors of change in unmet needs across each supportive care domain. Predictor variables were socio-demographic, treatment and psychosocial factors including depression, anxiety, social support, and patient satisfaction. RESULTS Unmet needs were reported by approximately two-thirds of patients at baseline and half of patients at six months follow-up. Having unmet needs at baseline was the strongest predictor of unmet needs at six months. Longer time since diagnosis was a consistent predictor of greater unmet needs, associated with change in physical/daily living, psychological and health system and information unmet needs over time. By contrast, a complex relationship was found in that patient satisfaction, psychosocial and treatment characteristics predicted higher needs in some domains and lower needs in others. CONCLUSIONS Unmet supportive care needs persist over time and psychological needs may emerge later in the illness continuum. Interventions to meet the needs of longer term cancer survivors are needed and should closely articulate with reported supportive care needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E McDowell
- School of Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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McDowell ME, Occhipinti S, Gardiner RA, Baade PD, Steginga SK. A review of prostate-specific antigen screening prevalence and risk perceptions for first-degree relatives of men with prostate cancer. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2010; 18:545-55. [PMID: 19686273 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2354.2008.01046.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
First-degree relatives of men with prostate cancer have a higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer than men without a family history. The present review examines the prevalence and predictors of testing in first-degree relatives, perceptions of risk, prostate cancer knowledge and psychological consequences of screening. Medline, PsycInfo and Cinahl databases were searched for articles examining risk perceptions or screening practices of first-degree relatives of men with prostate cancer for the period of 1990 to August 2007. Eighteen studies were eligible for inclusion. First-degree relatives participated in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing more and perceived their risk of prostate cancer to be higher than men without a family history. Family history factors (e.g. being an unaffected son rather than an unaffected brother) were consistent predictors of PSA testing. Studies were characterized by sampling biases and a lack of longitudinal assessments. Prospective, longitudinal assessments with well-validated and comprehensive measures are needed to identify factors that cue the uptake of screening and from this develop an evidence base for decision support. Men with a family history may benefit from targeted communication about the risks and benefits of prostate cancer testing that responds to the implications of their heightened risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E McDowell
- School of Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Cojoca R, Rolla S, Occhipinti S, Pinto H, Forni G, Cavallo F. Silencing IL-10 gene with intra-mammary siRNA enables DNA vaccination to inhibit established ErbB2 carcinomas. EJC Suppl 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1359-6349(08)71807-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Fisichella
- a Departmental Institute of Chemistry , Industrial Chemistry of the University , Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania , 95125 , Italy
| | - S. Occhipinti
- a Departmental Institute of Chemistry , Industrial Chemistry of the University , Viale Andrea Doria 6, Catania , 95125 , Italy
| | - O. Consiglio
- b Cattedra di Chimica Organica, Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Bologna , Via Zanolini 3, Bologna , 40126 , Italy
| | - D. Spinelli
- b Cattedra di Chimica Organica, Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Bologna , Via Zanolini 3, Bologna , 40126 , Italy
| | - R. Noto
- c Institute of Organic Chemistry of the University , Via Archirafi 20, Palermo , 90123 , Italy
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the decision-making processes used by men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer who were considering treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS Men newly diagnosed with localized prostate cancer from outpatient urology clinics and urologists' private practices were approached before treatment. Their decision-making processes and information-seeking behaviour was assessed; demographic information was also obtained. RESULTS Of 119 men approached, 108 (90%) were interviewed; 91% reported non-systematic decision processes, with deferral to the doctor, positive and negative recollections of others' cancer experiences, and the pre-existing belief that surgery is a better cancer treatment being most common. For systematic information processing the mean (sd, range) number of items considered was 4.19 (2.28, 0-11), with 57% of men considering four or fewer treatment/medical aspects of prostate cancer. Men most commonly considered cancer stage (59%), urinary incontinence (55%) and impotence (51%) after surgery, and low overall mortality (45%). Uncertainty about probabilities for cure was reported by 43% of men and fear of cancer spread by 37%. Men also described uncertainty about the probabilities of side-effects (27%), decisional uncertainty (25%) and anticipated decisional regret (18%). Overall, 73% of men sought information about prostate cancer from external sources, most commonly the Internet, followed by family and friends. CONCLUSIONS In general, men did not use information about medical treatments comprehensively or systematically when making treatment decisions, and their processing of medical information was biased by their previous beliefs about cancer and health. These findings have implications for the provision of informational and decisional support to men considering prostate cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Steginga
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Department of Surgery, University of Queensland, Australia
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Abstract
The diagnosis and subsequent treatment of prostate cancer is followed by a range of significant disease specific and iatrogenic sequelae. However, the supportive care needs of men with prostate cancer are not well described in the literature. The present study assesses the supportive care needs of men with prostate cancer who are members of prostate cancer self-help groups in Queensland, Australia. In all, 206 men aged between 48 and 85 years (mean=68) completed the Supportive Care Needs Survey (SCNS) (62% response). The SCNS is a validated measure assessing perceived need in the domains of psychological needs, health system and information needs, physical and daily living needs, patient care and support, and sexuality. Items assessing need for access to services and resources were also included. One third of the sample reported a moderate to high need for help for multiple items in the sexuality, psychological and health system and information domains. Younger men reported greater need in the sexuality domain; living in major urban centres was predictive of greater psychological need; being closer to the time of diagnosis was related to greater need for help in the physical and daily living domain; having prostate cancer that is not in remission, having received radiation therapy, and lower levels of education were predictive of greater need for help in patient care and support. Of the total sample, 55% of men had used alternative cancer treatments in the past 12 months, with younger and more educated men more likely to use alternative therapies. Interventions in sexuality, psychological concerns and informational support are priorities for men with prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Steginga
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Australia.
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17
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Steginga SK, Occhipinti S, McCaffrey J, Dunn J. Men's attitudes toward prostate cancer and seeking prostate-specific antigen testing. J Cancer Educ 2001; 16:42-45. [PMID: 11270899 DOI: 10.1080/08858190109528723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the Australian Cancer Society recommends against performing PSA tests to screen for prostate cancer, many Australian men currently undergo such screening. This study investigated attitudinal variables that may predict prostate cancer screening behaviors in this context. METHODS A questionnaire was administered by mail in a two-phase procedure, first to a sample of 1,461 men (46% response), then to 919 men from the initial sample. Prostate cancer screening behaviors of men > 40 years old were examined. The questionnaire assessed worry about prostate cancer, perceived vulnerability to prostate cancer, belief in the efficacy of PSA testing for detection, having received a PSA test for detection, and the presence of urologic symptoms at the time of testing. RESULTS Men who had had PSA testing with urologic symptoms at the time of the test were more worried about prostate cancer and perceived themselves as more vulnerable to prostate cancer compared with both asymptomatic tested and untested men. Men who had undergone PSA testing believed the test to be more effective in the detection of prostate cancer than did men who had not. CONCLUSIONS Urologic symptoms act as a risk cue for men to prostate cancer. Asymptomatic men should be considered separately from symptomatic men in the investigation of psychological variables predictive of seeking screening for prostate cancer. These findings are discussed in terms of both the focus and design of interventions to alter prostate cancer screening behavior and their implications for the clinical management of men with urologic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Steginga
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Spring Hill, Australia.
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Abstract
Research in the field of teenage drinking behavior has shown relationships between both social skills and drinking and alcohol expectancies and drinking. The present research investigated the comparative power of both of these sets of variables in predicting teenage drinking behavior, as well as looking at the contribution of more global cognitive structures. It was hypothesised that adolescents with high alcohol involvement would be discriminated from those with low involvement on the basis of social skills, cognitive structures, and alcohol expectancies. Seven hundred thirty-two adolescents participated in the study. Results indicated that adolescent alcohol involvement was associated with social skills deficits, positive alcohol expectancies, and negative cognitive structures concerning parents and teachers. The results revealed that, although the bulk of the variance in drinking behavior was explained by the independent effects of social skills and expectancies, the interaction of the two constructs explained an additional and significant proportion of the variance. Implications for preventive and treatment programs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L R Gaffney
- Faculty of Arts, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
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20
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Steginga S, Occhipinti S, Wilson K, Dunn J. Domains of distress: the experience of breast cancer in Australia. Oncol Nurs Forum 1998; 25:1063-70. [PMID: 9679264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To describe difficulties experienced by women after treatment for primary breast cancer. DESIGN Descriptive and exploratory. SETTING Queensland, Australia. SAMPLE 245 women (70% response rate) less than 16 weeks postsurgery for breast cancer completed a survey. The mean age for this sample was 55 years; 71% had undergone mastectomy, and 29% had undergone conservative breast surgery. METHODS Focus groups were used to generate items for the survey, "Experience of Breast Cancer Questionnaire" (EBCQ). The EBCQ and the psychological subscale of the Rotterdam Symptom Checklist (RSCL) were administered by mail to the sample. MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES Psychological distress, fear of recurrence, decisional uncertainty, informational support, self-image and social relationships, sexual morbidity, and physical effects of treatments. FINDINGS Factor analysis of the EBCQ identified five factors, accounting for 60% of the variance. These included psychological effects, treatment concerns, physical effects, self-image, and chemotherapy effects. Four of the five subscales had reliability coefficients of greater than 0.80. Psychological effects included cognitive and emotional effects. Treatment concerns included decisional uncertainty and poorly perceived informational support. Physical effects reflected the symptom pattern of axillary dissection. Self-image included breast loss and social isolation. CONCLUSIONS Nurses who assist women in adjusting to breast cancer should consider the effect of fear of recurrence and perceptions of body image on the recovery process. Because participation in treatment decisions may increase the demands on women at diagnosis, informational support appropriate to each woman's needs is essential. How self-esteem can affect self-image and social relationships after breast cancer requires further investigation. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Understanding the experience of illness from the perspective of the patient assists nurses in validating their nursing practice and provides clinically relevant information to guide intervention. In particular, supportive psychological care should target both emotional and cognitive responses to breast cancer. Informational support is integral to a patient's satisfaction with treatment decisions and is likely to predict adjustment. When assisting women to adjust to self-image changes, nurses may need to target women's perceptions about their body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Steginga
- Australian Catholic University in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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21
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Abstract
This article examines strategies that are used to reason about food and contamination. In Experiment 1, Ss refrained from choosing a substance that had been given a "poison" label when the intent of the labeler was ambiguous or malicious but preferred this substance when a rationale was provided that dispelled the implication that there once might have been contaminants present. Experiment 2 was designed to compare the effects of safety on conditional reasoning in food and food-irrelevant contexts. When the safety issue was relevant to food in the form of contamination, subjects were most likely to use formal logic in reasoning. A similar pattern of responses was found in Experiment 3 on tasks for which subjects' ratings of their experience of contexts were matched for plausibility, experience, and danger. The results are discussed in terms of an adaptive constraint that facilitates rationality in reasoning within the food domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Occhipinti
- Department of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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22
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Abstract
This article examines strategies that are used to reason about food and contamination. In Experiment 1, Ss refrained from choosing a substance that had been given a "poison" label when the intent of the labeler was ambiguous or malicious but preferred this substance when a rationale was provided that dispelled the implication that there once might have been contaminants present. Experiment 2 was designed to compare the effects of safety on conditional reasoning in food and food-irrelevant contexts. When the safety issue was relevant to food in the form of contamination, subjects were most likely to use formal logic in reasoning. A similar pattern of responses was found in Experiment 3 on tasks for which subjects' ratings of their experience of contexts were matched for plausibility, experience, and danger. The results are discussed in terms of an adaptive constraint that facilitates rationality in reasoning within the food domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Occhipinti
- Department of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Occhipinti S, Feliciotti F, Grilli C. [Ileal reservoir and ileo-rectal anastomosis with surgical staplers]. G Chir 1992; 13:254-5. [PMID: 1637645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Occhipinti
- Istituto di Chirurgia Generale e Terapia Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Ancona
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24
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Occhipinti S, Feliciotti F. [Reconstruction techniques using surgical staplers after gastric resection]. G Chir 1991; 12:214-5. [PMID: 1873177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Occhipinti
- Istituto di Clinica Chirurgica Generale a Terapia Chirurgica, Università degli Studi di Ancona
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25
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Occhipinti S, Mariotti C. [Use of surgical staplers in pulmonary surgery]. MINERVA CHIR 1989; 44:381-3. [PMID: 2654711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Occhipinti S, Feliciotti F. [Surgical treatment of malignant melanoma of the skin]. MINERVA CHIR 1983; 38:1425-8. [PMID: 6363976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Occhipinti S, Caputi CA, Cassina I. [Treatment of pain in the cancer patient]. Chir Ital 1980; 32:1586-93. [PMID: 6166403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Consideration is given to the problem of treating pain in the tumour patient with an examination of the methodological basis of the therapeutic approach in the light of the antalgic, pharmacological and instrumental means at present available. Consideration is also given to the need for setting up multidisciplinary structures (on the lines of the American "Pain Clinic"), which can alone ensure the full effectiveness of therapeutic treatment of "intractable" pain.
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Occhipinti S. [Advances in hepatology. II. New diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Introduction]. Minerva Med 1980; 71:3469-70. [PMID: 7454100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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30
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Occhipinti S, Alò F. [Conservative surgical treatment of early carcinoma of the breast]. MINERVA CHIR 1980; 35:879-90. [PMID: 7454018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The natural history of breast cancer related with cellular cytodinamics, hematogenous and lymphatic spreading and host defence is presented. It is underlined that surgical methods did not improve survival rates specially for radical procedures. Conservative managements (tumorectomy, wedge resection, subcutaneous mastectomy) for stages T1 No M0 are evaluated. Diagnostic methods for stage I neoplasms are reported especially for infraclinic stages. Surgical techniques are reviewed in detail for the treatment of primitive neoplasms and lymphonodes. After a full examination of controlled clinical series indications for conservative treatment are defined as related to diagnosis and management in special regard for female psychic melieu.
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Alberghina G, Fisichella S, Occhipinti S. Electronic spectra and i.r. characteristics of some 2- and 3-furan-carboxamides and 3-thiophene-carboxamides. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1980. [DOI: 10.1016/0584-8539(80)80143-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Occhipinti S, Trazzi R, Mingolla F, Amerio A. [Intensive care units in surgery]. Minerva Anestesiol 1979; 45:711-20. [PMID: 514528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The reasons why intensive care units have become essential are examined. The purpose of such units is to modify the organization of hospital assistance according to the concept of progressive treatment in line with the gravity of the disease concerned. Monitoring techniques as a function of the patient's gravity are outlined and the use of electronic processing as a valuable contribution to the surgeon in providing him with a complete and speedy physiological profile of the seriously ill patient is recommended. Finally, the cost of intensive care units is examined and to keep it down careful attention must be paid to the type of pathology admitted to such units. In spite of this by no means negligible factor, institution of such units is still recommended as quickly as possible, their organization being moulded to the situation in question.
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Occhipinti S, Saba S. [Ileal by-pass in dyslipidemias]. Minerva Med 1975; 66:3474-8. [PMID: 1178139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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34
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Occhipinti S, Romeo G, Bacciu PP, Saba V, Perisi P, Dettori G. [Use of modified heterologous arterial prostheses in reconstructive arterial surgery]. MINERVA CHIR 1975; 30:713-27. [PMID: 1143682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Results with modified heterologous artery prostheses in reconstructive artery surgery.
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