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Guarrera S, Vanella D, Consoli S, Giudice G, Toscano S, Ramírez-Cuesta J, Milani M, Ferlito F, Longo D. Analysis of small-scale soil CO 2 fluxes in an orange orchard under irrigation and soil conservative practices. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30543. [PMID: 38726109 PMCID: PMC11079320 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The quantification of soil carbon dioxide (CO2) flux represents an indicator of the agro-ecosystems sustainability. However, the monitoring of these fluxes is quite challenging due to their high spatially-temporally variability and dependence on environmental variables and soil management practices.In this study, soil CO2 fluxes were measured using a low-cost accumulation chamber, that was realized ad hoc for the surveys, in an orange orchard managed under different soil management (SM, bare versus mulched soils) and water regime (WR, full irrigation versus regulated deficit irrigation) strategies. In particular, the soil CO2 flux measurements were acquired in discontinuous and continuous modes, together with ancillary agrometeorological and soil-related information, and then compared to the agrosystem scale CO2 fluxes measured by the eddy covariance (EC) technique.Overall significant differences were obtained for the soil CO2 discontinuous fluxes as function of the WR (0.16 ± 0.01 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg m-2 s-1 under full irrigation and regulated deficit irrigation, respectively). For the continuous soil CO2 measurements, the response observed for the SM factor varied from year to year, indicating for the overall reference period 2022-23 higher soil CO2 flux under the mulched soils (0.24 ± 0.01 mg m-2 s-1) than under bare soil conditions (0.15 ± 0.00 mg m-2 s-1). Inter-annual variations were also observed as function of the day-of-year (DOY), the SM and their interactions, resulting in higher soil CO2 flux under the mulched soils (0.24 ± 0.02 mg m-2 s-1) than under bare soil (0.15 ± 0.01 mg m-2 s-1) in certain periods of the years, according to the environmental conditions. Results suggest the importance of integrating soil CO2 flux measurements with ancillary variables that explain the variability of the agrosystem and the need to conduct the measurements using different operational modalities, also providing for night-time monitoring of CO2. In addition, the study underlines that the small-scale chamber measurements can be used to estimate soil CO2 fluxes at orchard scale if fluxes are properly scaled.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Guarrera
- Agricultural, Food and Environmental Science, Di3A, University of Catania, Catania, 95124, Italy
| | - D. Vanella
- Dipartimento di Agricoltura, Alimentazione e Ambiente (Di3A), Università Degli Studi di Catania, Via S. Sofia, 100, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - S. Consoli
- Dipartimento di Agricoltura, Alimentazione e Ambiente (Di3A), Università Degli Studi di Catania, Via S. Sofia, 100, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - G. Giudice
- Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Sezione di Catania, Osservatorio Etneo (INGV-OE), Piazza Roma 2, 95125, Catania, Italy
| | - S. Toscano
- Dipartimento di Agricoltura, Alimentazione e Ambiente (Di3A), Università Degli Studi di Catania, Via S. Sofia, 100, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - J.M. Ramírez-Cuesta
- Dipartimento di Agricoltura, Alimentazione e Ambiente (Di3A), Università Degli Studi di Catania, Via S. Sofia, 100, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - M. Milani
- Dipartimento di Agricoltura, Alimentazione e Ambiente (Di3A), Università Degli Studi di Catania, Via S. Sofia, 100, Catania, 95123, Italy
| | - F. Ferlito
- Consiglio per la Ricerca in Agricoltura e l'analisi Dell'economia Agraria, Centro di Ricerca Olivicoltura, Frutticoltura e Agrumicoltura, Corso Savoia, 190, Acireale, CT, 95024, Italy
| | - D. Longo
- Dipartimento di Agricoltura, Alimentazione e Ambiente (Di3A), Università Degli Studi di Catania, Via S. Sofia, 100, Catania, 95123, Italy
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Pinna S, Longo D, Zanobini P, Lorini C, Bonaccorsi G, Baccini M, Cecchi F. How to communicate with older adults about climate change: a systematic review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1347935. [PMID: 38638477 PMCID: PMC11025664 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1347935] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although older adults are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, they seem to be overall less concerned about it, and less inclined to support climate policies. The study aims to identify the communication strategies that have been evaluated in promoting awareness and/or climate friendly behaviors in older adults. Methods We searched multiple electronic databases for studies that evaluated the effects of any interventions aimed at communicating climate change to older persons (over 65 years) and assessed the results as awareness and /or behavioral changes. We selected quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods studies, and we also included systematic reviews for cross-referencing. Risk of bias of included studies was evaluated using different tools according to the study design. Results From a total of 5,486 articles, only 3 studies were included. One mixed-method study engaged older adults to assess the community vulnerability to climate change and to develop adaptation recommendations based on their perspectives; one qualitative study conducted focus groups to identify the more effective language, values and themes based on participants' responses to narratives; one quantitative study utilized a 360-degree audio-visual platform allowing users to engage with immersive visualizations of sea-level rise scenarios. Discussion Despite the paucity of literature, this review demonstrates the potential for different strategies to increase the awareness of older persons about climate change. The involvement of older adults in the communication process, the identification of their priorities, and the integration of technology in their daily lives are promising approaches but more research, including both quantitative and qualitative studies is recommended on this topic. Systematic review registeration For further details about the protocol, this systematic review has been registered on PROSPERO on July 1, 2023 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023438256).
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuele Pinna
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Fondazione don Carlo Gnocchi, Scientific Institute, Florence, Italy
| | - Diego Longo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Patrizio Zanobini
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Lorini
- Department of Health Science, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Marco Baccini
- Fondazione don Carlo Gnocchi, Scientific Institute, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Cecchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Fondazione don Carlo Gnocchi, Scientific Institute, Florence, Italy
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Lombardi G, Baccini M, Gualerzi A, Pancani S, Campagnini S, Doronzio S, Longo D, Maselli A, Cherubini G, Piazzini M, Ciapetti T, Polito C, Pinna S, De Santis C, Bedoni M, Macchi C, Ramat S, Cecchi F. Comparing the effects of augmented virtual reality treadmill training versus conventional treadmill training in patients with stage II-III Parkinson's disease: the VIRTREAD-PD randomized controlled trial protocol. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1338609. [PMID: 38327625 PMCID: PMC10847255 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1338609] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Intensive treadmill training (TT) has been documented to improve gait parameters and functional independence in Parkinson's Disease (PD), but the optimal intervention protocol and the criteria for tailoring the intervention to patients' performances are lacking. TT may be integrated with augmented virtual reality (AVR), however, evidence of the effectiveness of this combined treatment is still limited. Moreover, prognostic biomarkers of rehabilitation, potentially useful to customize the treatment, are currently missing. The primary aim of this study is to compare the effects on gait performances of TT + AVR versus TT alone in II-III stage PD patients with gait disturbance. Secondary aims are to assess the effects on balance, gait parameters and other motor and non-motor symptoms, and patient's satisfaction and adherence to the treatment. As an exploratory aim, the study attempts to identify biomarkers of neuroplasticity detecting changes in Neurofilament Light Chain concentration T0-T1 and to identify prognostic biomarkers associated to blood-derived Extracellular Vesicles. Methods Single-center, randomized controlled single-blind trial comparing TT + AVR vs. TT in II-III stage PD patients with gait disturbances. Assessment will be performed at baseline (T0), end of training (T1), 3 (T2) and 6 months (T3, phone interview) from T1. The primary outcome is difference in gait performance assessed with the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment gait scale at T1. Secondary outcomes are differences in gait performance at T2, in balance and spatial-temporal gait parameters at T1 and T2, patients' satisfaction and adherence. Changes in falls, functional mobility, functional autonomy, cognition, mood, and quality of life will be also assessed at different timepoints. The G*Power software was used to estimate a sample size of 20 subjects per group (power 0.95, α < 0.05), raised to 24 per group to compensate for potential drop-outs. Both interventions will be customized and progressive, based on the participant's performance, according to a predefined protocol. Conclusion This study will provide data on the possible superiority of AVR-associated TT over conventional TT in improving gait and other motor and non-motor symptoms in persons with PD and gait disturbances. Results of the exploratory analysis could add information in the field of biomarker research in PD rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Lombardi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Baccini
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Pancani
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Doronzio
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Diego Longo
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandro Maselli
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
- Department of Technical-Health Professions, Rehabilitation, and Prevention, Campostaggia Hospital, Poggibonsi (SI), USL Toscana Sudest, Italy
| | - Giulio Cherubini
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Samuele Pinna
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara De Santis
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marzia Bedoni
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Macchi
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Ramat
- Parkinson Unit, Department of NeuroMuscular-Skeletal and Sensorial Organs, AOU Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Cecchi
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus, Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Longo D, Ammannati L, Melchiorre D, Serafini I, Bagni MA, Ferrarello F. The Muscle Shortening Maneuver: a noninvasive approach to the treatment of peroneal nerve injury. A case report. Physiother Theory Pract 2024; 40:176-183. [PMID: 35912501 DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2022.2106915] [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: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of peripheral nerve injuries is a debated topic. The Muscle Shortening Maneuver (MSM), a physiotherapy approach, is noninvasive and free of side effects; it consists of a muscle shortening and a solicitation in traction applied simultaneously. OBJECTIVE The focus of this report is to describe the effects of the MSM combined with walking retraining in a patient with incomplete injury of the peroneal nerve. DESCRIPTION The patient was a 17-year-old man, who underwent osteotomy surgery of the proximal two-thirds of the fibula, due to an Ewing sarcoma that caused a partial injury of the left peroneal nerve. Our assessment plan of the left ankle movement ability comprised range of movement, muscle strength, and surface electromyography (EMG); and a gait analysis was conducted by using an iPhone application. MSM and walking retraining were administered twice and once a week, respectively, for 4 weeks. OUTCOMES The active range of movement substantially improved in dorsiflexion (≥15°), whereas slightly decreased in plantar flexion (-5°). Aside from the tibialis anterior, an increase in muscle strength was detected. Surface EMG showed an increased activation, particularly in the peroneus longus. A decrease in gait speed and step length was recorded from the gait analysis, with a better bilateral symmetry. CONCLUSIONS Positive outcomes were reported without evidence of risk or adverse events for the participant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Longo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Biological Systems Movement Research Laboratory, Pistoia Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ammannati
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Melchiorre
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Biological Systems Movement Research Laboratory, Pistoia Italy
| | - Isabella Serafini
- Department of Functional Rehabilitation Activities, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Ex Filanda, V. Cesare Battisti 30, Pescia, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Bagni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Biological Systems Movement Research Laboratory, Pistoia Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrarello
- Department of Functional Rehabilitation Activities, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, c/o CSS Giovannini, Prato, Italy
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Longo D, Santini G, Cherubini G, Melchiorre D, Ferrarello F, Bagni MA. The muscle shortening maneuver in individuals with stroke: a consideration-of-concept randomized pilot trial. Top Stroke Rehabil 2023; 30:807-819. [PMID: 36398746 DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2022.2145741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The Muscle Shortening Maneuver (MSM) is derived from Feldman's λ model of motor control, and seems to induce a more balanced agonist- antagonist-muscular action. The hypothesized mechanism of action is a modulation of the Tonic Stretch Reflex Threshold (TSRT). We designed a pilot, randomized trial aimed to explore the mechanisms of action of the technique. An ancillary objective was to research the implementation of the MSM as a stroke rehabilitation intervention. METHODS A sample of 10 participants with chronic stroke was enrolled and randomly assigned to MSM (n, 5) or conventional physical therapy (CPT) (n, 5) treatments. The TSRTs were assessed by the Montreal Spasticity Measure device. A selection of clinical and instrumental outcome measures was taken to investigate function and activity levels. Data were collected at baseline, end-of-treatment, and one month after the end-of-treatment. RESULTS No adverse events were observed. In both between- and within-group post-treatment assessments, in the affected ankle the MSM group showed decreased TSRTs of the plantar flexor, increased strength of the dorsiflexor and active range of motion; also, the time needed to perform the Timed Up and Go test decreased. No changes were evident across assessments in the CPT group. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The MSM seems able to modulate the TSRTs in individuals with stroke. Although with the limitations due to the pilot design, the variation in participants' responses appear to be promising. Many methodological issues have to be clarified and specified conceiving the progression toward a confirmatory trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Longo
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Guido Santini
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Melchiorre
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferrarello
- Department of Functional Rehabilitation activities, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Prato, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Bagni
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Victorasso Jardim Perassi B, Abrahams D, Irrera P, Whelan C, Beatty M, Byrne S, Longo D, Gaspar K, Pilon-Thomas S, Ibrahim Hashim A, Böhler C, Gillies R. Targeting acidosis to improve immunotherapy in a pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma model. Eur J Cancer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(22)01038-3] [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: 11/17/2022]
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Longo D, Branchi E, Matucci-Cerinic P, Bagni MA, Matucci-Cerinic M, Melchiorre D. Shoulder impingement syndrome in water polo players: muscle shortening manoeuvre controls pain intensity, recovers function and normalizes sonographic parameters. J Ultrasound 2022; 25:667-673. [PMID: 35060097 PMCID: PMC9402839 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-021-00645-0] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the effects of muscle shortening manoeuvre (MSM) by sonography (US) in professional water polo players with shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS). METHODS Twenty-four professional water polo players (mean age: 22.13 ± 3.34) with SIS were assigned to one of 2 different treatment interventions: Group (1) MSM: a series of fast accelerations in the upward direction was applied to the upper limb that's connected to a spring through a metal plate with a ring. The ring was linked to a pulley system that was submitted to forces acting in the opposite direction (added mass). Group (2) Simple traction: the series of fast accelerations were performed without the springs. Pain intensity, Yocum and Hawkins tests for SIS, Neer's impingement sign, range of motion, muscle strength and shoulder US were assessed. The examination was performed before, immediately after and 30 days after each treatment to study the US width of subacromial-subdeltoid bursa (SSB), thickness of supraspinatus (ST), long biceps tendons (LBT); hypoechoic halo of surrounding the long biceps (LBH) and subscapular tendons (STH); width of acromio-clavicular joint capsule (ACJ) and the distance between bone heads (ACD). Impingement sign (IS) was evaluated by dynamic examination. RESULTS Immediately after treatment with MSM, pain was much reduced (p = 0.002); Yocum and Hawkins tests were decreased (p = 0.008, p = 0.031); Neer's impingement sign was negative; range of motion and muscle strength were increased. US showed that the following parameters were significantly reduced: SSB (p = 0.001), LBT (p = 0.014), LBH (p = 0.014), SSH (p = 0.002), ACJ (p = 0.004), ACD (p = 0.001). IS was no more detected. After 30 days, the improvement of clinical and US findings was maintained. In the control group, after simple traction, no clinical amelioration of US parameters was found immediately after the procedure. CONCLUSION These data show that MSM could be significantly and rapidly effective against pain and the loss of function due to shoulder impingement in water polo players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Longo
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
- Sezione di Scienze Fisiologiche, Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale e Clinica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Viale Morgagni 63, 50100, Florence, Italy.
| | - Enrico Branchi
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pietro Matucci-Cerinic
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Academic Hospital of Santa Maria della Misericordia Udine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Maria Angela Bagni
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Matucci-Cerinic
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Unit of Immunology, Rheumatology, Allergy and Rare Diseases (UnIRAR), IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Division of Rheumatology AOUC, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Melchiorre
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Division of Rheumatology AOUC, Florence, Italy
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Longo L, Dell'Avanzato R, Longo D. ENDOLIFT<sup>®</sup> and multi-wavelength laser photobiomodulation: a randomized controlled trial study on 96 subjects, treating skin laxity of the lower third of the face. Laser Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.4081/ltj.2022.298] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background and aims: Many patients look for procedures that can achieve similar results to surgical lift avoiding the risks and possible complications of surgery. Endolift® and multi-wavelength (MW) Laser photobiomodulation (PBM) are considered two of the most effective procedures in the treatment of skin laxity and superficial wrinkles. We aimed to investigate the reduction of skin laxity of the lower third of the face treated with the Endolift® technique alone or in combination with MW Laser PBM. Materials and Methods: From June 2016 to June 2018, 96 subjects (18 M; 78 F) were included in this randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in two Italian institutions. The area treated was the lower third of the face. The subjects were classified using the Ptosis Scale (grade I-V) at T0, with a Pinch Test <1.9 mm. We selected only subjects’ grade 4, both males and females, 45-55-years old. Thirty-two subjects (6M; 26F) (group 1) were treated with the Endolift® procedure followed by a session of MW Laser PBM using a simultaneous nonsurgical laser therapy emission of three different wavelengths (532 nm, 808 nm, 1064 nm). The MW Laser PBM was repeated after 7, 14 and 21 days. Thirty-two subjects (6M; 26F) (group 2) underwent only the Endolift® session. 32 subjects (6M; 26F) (group 3) received only MW Laser PBM. Follow up visits were performed at days 60 (T60), 120 (T120) and 540 (T540) after the treatments. The study ended in December 2019 when all the subjects had been followed for 18 months. Results: The results of the three groups were evaluated using the Ptosis Scale at T0, T60, T120 and T540. The combination of the two treatments (group 1) achieved more rapid effects, while MW Laser PBM alone treatment (group 3) achieved the slowest effect. The median test for independent samples showed that all the differences between groups are statistically significant at each follow-up (p=0.000). Conclusions: The Endolift® laser in the last 15 years allows to achieve exceptional results in the treatment of skin laxity reaching the desired ‘soft’ rejuvenation model which is increasingly desired. MW Laser PBM, in combination with Endolift®, obtains better results. Although significant at T540, the effects of MW Laser PBM alone are slower to reach.
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Longo D, Cherubini G, Mangè V, Lippi P, Longo L, Melchiorre D, Bagni MA. Effects of laser therapy and Grimaldi’s muscle shortening maneuver on spasticity in central nervous system injuries. Laser Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.4081/ltj.2022.299] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background an Aims: For 2003 year until today we treated hundreds of patients with Central Nervous System Injuries (CNSI), using Non-Surgical Laser Therapy (NSLT) obtaining good results in terms of sensibility and movement. In order to increase muscle strength and to further explore new emerging synergies, we have also started using a physical therapy practice based on the most current knowledge about the motor control, called Grimaldi’s Muscle Shortening Maneuver (GMSM). Spasticity is often the most disabling symptom and the current therapies are still not able to heal it at all. The goal of our study is to suggest a new way of treatment of spasticity, supporting it with objective measurements of muscle thresholds. Materials and Methods: In 2016-2017, 36 patients with traumatic or degenerative CNSI were enrolled. Lasers used were 808 nm, 10600 nm, and 1064 nm, applied with a first cycle of 20 sessions, four a day. Patients were subjected to Grimaldi’s Muscle Shortening Maneuver (MSM) twice a day, ten sessions at all, working selectively on hypertonic muscles and their antagonists. Before treatment, tonic stretch reflex thresholds (TSRTs) in Gastrocnemius Lateralis (GL) were assessed through a surface electromyography (sEMG) device paired with an electrogoniometer. Antagonist muscle force (Tibialis Anterioris) was assessed by some electronic hand-held dynamometers. For the clinical measure, we used the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). All tests have been performed at the baseline (before starting treatments), after one week (at the end of the last treatment) and after a month. Results: Results were considered positive if the instrumental assessment procedure showed modifications in TSRT values and subjects improved their antagonist muscle strength. Results showed modifications in TSRT values at every follow up. The average comparison between the follow-ups was always statistically significant (p .000). The increase in Tibialis Anterioris muscle strength was statistically significant as well (p .000). MAS showed some differences between followups but not all of them are statistically significant (T0-T1 p .063, T1-T2 p .001, T0-T2 p .000). Encouraging results suggest a possible correlation between laser and MSM therapies and modifications of TSRT in spastic muscles. Conclusion: Associating laser treatment and Grimaldi’s Muscle Shortening Maneuver (MSM) seems to be effective on spasticity in patients affected by traumatic or degenerative CNSI. Obviously, this kind of study design showed a lot of limits however this clinical series could be an important hint for every researcher working in the complex field of spasticity, a symptom that is poorly defined and hardly treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Longo
- eCampus University, International Academy for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Institute for Laser Medicine, Firenze, Italy
| | - Diego Longo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Physiological Sciences Unit, University of Florence, Folrence, Italy
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Longo D, Tognetti E, Melchiorre D, Bagni MA. Influence of lockdown on spinal pain: a preliminary report on use of the “2020 lockdown questionnaire”. Physical Therapy Reviews 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/10833196.2021.2022374] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Diego Longo
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence, Italy
| | - E. Tognetti
- Fraternità di Misericordia di Corsagna, Lucca, Italy
| | - D. Melchiorre
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence, Italy
| | - M. A. Bagni
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence, Italy
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Longo D, Lombardi M, Lippi P, Melchiorre D, Bagni MA, Ferrarello F. THE MUSCLE SHORTENING MANOEUVRE: APPLICABILITY AND PRELIMINARY EVALUATION IN CHILDREN WITH HEMIPLEGIC CEREBRAL PALSY: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS. J Rehabil Med Clin Commun 2021; 4:1000062. [PMID: 34239706 PMCID: PMC8259804 DOI: 10.2340/20030711-1000062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Physiotherapy plays a key role in cerebral palsy rehabilitation, through addressing body function/structure deficits, minimizing activity limitations, and encouraging participation. The muscle shortening manoeuvre is an innovative therapeutic technique, characterized by the ability to induce changes in muscle strength in a short time. OBJECTIVE To describe the applicability and estimate the effect of the muscle shortening manoeuvre applied to improve motor weakness and joint excursion of the ankle in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. METHODS Nine children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy received 3 intervention sessions in one week. Muscle strength, passive and active range of motion were assessed before, during and after the training, and at 1-week follow-up. RESULTS The children experienced an immediate increase in muscle strength and joint excursion of the ankle; the improvements were still present at follow-up after 7 days. CONCLUSION The muscle shortening manoeuvre may be an effective intervention to induce an immediate increase in muscle strength and range of motion of the ankle in children affected by hemiplegia due to cerebral palsy, thus promoting better physical functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Longo
- Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence
| | | | - Paolo Lippi
- Research Laboratory for Movements in the Biological Systems, Uniser, Pistoia
| | | | | | - Francesco Ferrarello
- Functional Rehabilitation Activities, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale, Toscana Centro, Prato, Italy
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Rossi-Espagnet MC, Sudhakar S, Fontana E, Longo D, Davison J, Petengill AL, Bevivino E, Pacheco FT, da Rocha AJ, Hanagandi P, Soldatelli M, Mankad K, do Amaral LLF. Neuroradiologic Phenotyping of Galactosemia: From the Neonatal Form to the Chronic Stage. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2021; 42:590-596. [PMID: 33478945 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a7016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Galactosemia is a rare genetic condition caused by mutation of enzymes involved in galactose and glucose metabolism. The varying clinical spectrum reflects the genetic complexity of this entity manifesting as acute neonatal toxicity syndrome, requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment, to more insidious clinical scenarios as observed in the subacute and chronic presentations. The current literature predominantly focuses on the long-standing sequelae of this disease. The purpose of this multicenter clinical report comprising 17 patients with galactosemia is to highlight the MR imaging patterns encompassing the whole spectrum of galactosemia, emphasizing the 3 main clinical subtypes: 1) acute neonatal presentation, with predominant white matter edema; 2) subacute clinical onset with a new finding called the "double cap sign"; and 3) a chronic phase of the disease with heterogeneous imaging findings. The knowledge of these different patterns together with MR spectroscopy and the clinical presentation may help in prioritizing galactosemia over other neonatal metabolic diseases and prevent possible complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Rossi-Espagnet
- From the Neuroradiology Unit (M.C.R.-E., E.F., D.L.)
- Neuroradiology Unit (M.C.R.-E.), Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs Department, University Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | | | - E Fontana
- From the Neuroradiology Unit (M.C.R.-E., E.F., D.L.)
| | - D Longo
- From the Neuroradiology Unit (M.C.R.-E., E.F., D.L.)
| | - J Davison
- Paediatric Metabolic Medicine (J.D.), Great Ormond Street Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - A L Petengill
- Neuroradiology Department, (A.L.P., F.T.P., A.J.d.R., L.L.F.d.A.), Hospital da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E Bevivino
- Division of Metabolism (E.B.), Bambino Gesù' Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - F T Pacheco
- Neuroradiology Department, (A.L.P., F.T.P., A.J.d.R., L.L.F.d.A.), Hospital da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A J da Rocha
- Neuroradiology Department, (A.L.P., F.T.P., A.J.d.R., L.L.F.d.A.), Hospital da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - P Hanagandi
- Department of Medical Imaging (P.H.), King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - M Soldatelli
- Neuroradiology Department (M.S., L.L.F.d.A.), BP Medicina Diagnóstica, Hospital da Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - K Mankad
- Neuroradiology Unit (S.S., K.M.)
| | - L L F do Amaral
- Neuroradiology Department, (A.L.P., F.T.P., A.J.d.R., L.L.F.d.A.), Hospital da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Neuroradiology Department (M.S., L.L.F.d.A.), BP Medicina Diagnóstica, Hospital da Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Caputo M, Bullara V, Mele C, Samà MT, Zavattaro M, Ferrero A, Daffara T, Leone I, Giachetti G, Antoniotti V, Longo D, De Pedrini A, Marzullo P, Remorgida V, Prodam F, Aimaretti G. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Clinical Characteristics and Perinatal Outcomes in a Multiethnic Population of North Italy. Int J Endocrinol 2021; 2021:9474805. [PMID: 34987576 PMCID: PMC8720593 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9474805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate clinical characteristics and perinatal outcomes in a heterogeneous population of Caucasians born in Italy and High Migration Pressure Countries (HMPC) women with GDM living in Piedmont, North Italy. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed data from 586 women referring to our unit (2015-2020). Epidemiological (age and country of origin) and clinical-metabolic features (height, weight, family history of DM, parity, previous history of GDM, OGTT results, and GDM treatment) were collected. The database of certificates of care at delivery was consulted in relation to neonatal/maternal complications (rates of caesarean sections, APGAR score, fetal malformations, and neonatal anthropometry). RESULTS 43.2% of women came from HMPC; they were younger (p < 0.0001) and required insulin treatment more frequently than Caucasian women born in Italy (χ 2 = 17.8, p=0.007). Higher fasting and 120-minute OGTT levels and gestational BMI increased the risk of insulin treatment (OGTT T0: OR = 1.04, CI 95% 1.016-1.060, p=0.005; OGTT T120: OR = 1.01, CI 95% 1.002-1.020, p=0.02; BMI: OR = 1.089, CI 95% 1.051-1.129, p < 0.0001). Moreover, two or more diagnostic OGTT glucose levels doubled the risk of insulin therapy (OR = 2.03, IC 95% 1.145-3.612, p=0.016). We did not find any association between ethnicities and neonatal/maternal complications. CONCLUSIONS In our multiethnic GDM population, the need for intensive care and insulin treatment is high in HPMC women although the frequency of adverse peripartum and newborn outcomes does not vary among ethnic groups. The need for insulin therapy should be related to different genetic backgrounds, dietary habits, and Nutrition Transition phenomena. Thus, nutritional intervention and insulin treatment need to be tailored.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Caputo
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - V. Bullara
- SCDU Endocrinologia, AOU “Maggiore della Carità” Novara, Novara, Italy
| | - C. Mele
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - M. T. Samà
- SCDU Endocrinologia, AOU “Maggiore della Carità” Novara, Novara, Italy
| | - M. Zavattaro
- SCDU Endocrinologia, AOU “Maggiore della Carità” Novara, Novara, Italy
| | - A. Ferrero
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - T. Daffara
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - I. Leone
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - G. Giachetti
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - V. Antoniotti
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - D. Longo
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - A. De Pedrini
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - P. Marzullo
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Laboratory of Metabolic Research, Novara, Italy
| | - V. Remorgida
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - F. Prodam
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - G. Aimaretti
- Endocrinology, Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
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Longo D, Bottino F, Lucignani G, Scarciolla L, Pasquini L, Rossi Espagnet MC, Polito C, Figà-Talamanca L, Calbi G, Savarese I, Giliberti P, Napolitano A. DTI parameters in neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy after total body hypothermia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 35:4035-4042. [PMID: 33203279 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1846180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE MR imaging provides means for discriminating different patterns of Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and may distinguish most severe cases from less severe but is unable to predict long-term outcome. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) offers information for a more complete characterization of HIE. The purpose of this study is to compare the modifications of DTI parameters in newborns one week and six months following total-body cooling to healthy controls. METHODS Forty-seven cooled newborns were studied with MRI, 20 underwent follow-up at 6 months. 12 healthy newborns and nine children at 6 months were enrolled as control groups (HC). Inferior Longitudinal Fasciculus (ILF), Corpus Callosum Fasciculus (CCF), Corticospinal Tract (CST), Optical Tract (OT), Optic Radiation (OR) were generated in all subjects. DTI parameters were evaluated in basal ganglia (BG), thalamus (TH) and tracks. Statistical analysis was performed with MANOVA. RESULTS In newborns HIE versus HC, there were significantly lower fractional anisotropy (FA) on OR and CST and higher axial diffusivity (AD), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and radial diffusivity (RD) values on CST, BG and TH in HIE-N. At 6 months there were no significant grouping effects. The analysis showed a significant increase of FA, decrease of ADC, AD, RD after 6 months for HIE and HC. CONCLUSIONS We observed modifications of parameter values in HIE newborns vs HC; however normalization of values at 6 months suggests that changes of parameters cannot be considered early biomarkers for evaluation of therapeutic hypothermia in newborns with moderate HIE and normal conventional MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Longo
- Imaging Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - F Bottino
- Medical Physics Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - G Lucignani
- Imaging Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - L Scarciolla
- Imaging Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - L Pasquini
- NESMOS, Neuroradiology Department, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - M C Rossi Espagnet
- Imaging Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy.,NESMOS, Neuroradiology Department, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - C Polito
- Medical Physics Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - L Figà-Talamanca
- Imaging Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - G Calbi
- Anesthesiology Unit, DEA-ARCO, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - I Savarese
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Neonatology, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - P Giliberti
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Neonatology, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Napolitano
- Medical Physics Department, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Longo D. SP-0555 MRI-CEST Imaging of tumor acidosis. Radiother Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(19)30975-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Tresca C, Brun C, Bilgeri T, Menard G, Cherkez V, Federicci R, Longo D, Debontridder F, D'angelo M, Roditchev D, Profeta G, Calandra M, Cren T. Chiral Spin Texture in the Charge-Density-Wave Phase of the Correlated Metallic Pb/Si(111) Monolayer. Phys Rev Lett 2018; 120:196402. [PMID: 29799266 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.120.196402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We investigate the 1/3 monolayer α-Pb/Si(111) surface by scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) and fully relativistic first-principles calculations. We study both the high-temperature sqrt[3]×sqrt[3] and low-temperature 3×3 reconstructions and show that, in both phases, the spin-orbit interaction leads to an energy splitting as large as 25% of the valence-band bandwidth. Relativistic effects, electronic correlations, and Pb-substrate interaction cooperate to stabilize a correlated low-temperature paramagnetic phase with well-developed lower and upper Hubbard bands coexisting with 3×3 periodicity. By comparing the Fourier transform of STS conductance maps at the Fermi level with calculated quasiparticle interference from nonmagnetic impurities, we demonstrate the occurrence of two large hexagonal Fermi sheets with in-plane spin polarizations and opposite helicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Tresca
- Department of Physical and Chemical Sciences and SPIN-CNR, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 10, I-67100 L'Aquila, Italy
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - C Brun
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - T Bilgeri
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - G Menard
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - V Cherkez
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - R Federicci
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - D Longo
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - F Debontridder
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - M D'angelo
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - D Roditchev
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
- Laboratoire de physique et d'étude des matériaux, LPEM-UMR8213/CNRS-ESPCI ParisTech-UPMC, 10 rue Vauquelin, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - G Profeta
- Department of Physical and Chemical Sciences and SPIN-CNR, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio 10, I-67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Calandra
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
| | - T Cren
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut des Nanosciences de Paris, UMR7588, F-75252, Paris, France
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Manara R, Rocco MC, D'agata L, Cusmai R, Freri E, Giordano L, Darra F, Procopio E, Toldo I, Peruzzi C, Vittorini R, Spalice A, Fusco C, Nosadini M, Longo D, Sartori S. Neuroimaging Changes in Menkes Disease, Part 2. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2017; 38:1858-1865. [PMID: 28495940 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a5192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This is the second part of a retrospective and review MR imaging study aiming to define the frequency rate, timing, imaging features, and evolution of gray matter changes in Menkes disease, a rare multisystem X-linked disorder of copper metabolism characterized by early, severe, and progressive neurologic involvement. According to our analysis, neurodegenerative changes and focal basal ganglia lesions already appear in the early phases of the disease. Subdural collections are less common than generally thought; however, their presence remains important because they might challenge the differential diagnosis with child abuse and might precipitate the clinical deterioration. Anecdotal findings in our large sample seem to provide interesting clues about the protean mechanisms of brain injury in this rare disease and further highlight the broad spectrum of MR imaging findings that might be expected while imaging a child with the suspicion of or a known diagnosis of Menkes disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Manara
- From the Neuroradiology (R.M., M.C.R.), Sezione di Neuroscienze, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - M C Rocco
- From the Neuroradiology (R.M., M.C.R.), Sezione di Neuroscienze, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - L D'agata
- Department of Neuroscience (L.D.), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - R Cusmai
- Neurology Unit (R.C., D.L.), Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - E Freri
- Department of Pediatric Neuroscience (E.F.), Foundation IRCCS, Neurological Institute "C. Besta," Milano, Italy
| | - L Giordano
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit (L.G.), "Spedali Civili," Brescia, Italy
| | - F Darra
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit (F.D.), Department of Life and Reproduction Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - E Procopio
- Metabolic and Neuromuscular Unit (E.P.), Department of Neuroscience, Meyer Children Hospital, Firenze, Italy
| | - I Toldo
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit (I.T., M.N., S.S.), Department of Woman and Child Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - C Peruzzi
- Child Neuropsychiatry (C.P.), Ospedale Maggiore, Novara, Italy
| | - R Vittorini
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry (R.V.), Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Specialties, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, Torino, Italy
| | - A Spalice
- Children Neurology Division (A.S.), University La Sapienza Roma, Roma, Italy
| | - C Fusco
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, (C.F.), Department of Pediatrics, ASMN-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - M Nosadini
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit (I.T., M.N., S.S.), Department of Woman and Child Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - D Longo
- Neurology Unit (R.C., D.L.), Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - S Sartori
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit (I.T., M.N., S.S.), Department of Woman and Child Health, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Manara R, D'Agata L, Rocco MC, Cusmai R, Freri E, Pinelli L, Darra F, Procopio E, Mardari R, Zanus C, Di Rosa G, Soddu C, Severino M, Ermani M, Longo D, Sartori S. Neuroimaging Changes in Menkes Disease, Part 1. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2017; 38:1850-1857. [PMID: 28495946 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a5186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Menkes disease is a rare multisystem X-linked disorder of copper metabolism. Despite an early, severe, and progressive neurologic involvement, our knowledge of brain involvement remains unsatisfactory. The first part of this retrospective and review MR imaging study aims to define the frequency rate, timing, imaging features, and evolution of intracranial vascular and white matter changes. According to our analysis, striking but also poorly evolutive vascular abnormalities characterize the very early phases of disease. After the first months, myelination delay becomes evident, often in association with protean focal white matter lesions, some of which reveal an age-specific brain vulnerability. In later phases of the disease, concomitant progressive neurodegeneration might hinder the myelination progression. The currently enriched knowledge of neuroradiologic finding evolution provides valuable clues for early diagnosis, identifies possible MR imaging biomarkers of new treatment efficacy, and improves our comprehension of possible mechanisms of brain injury in Menkes disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Manara
- From the Neuroradiology (R. Manara, M.C.R.), Sezione di Neuroscienze, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - L D'Agata
- Department of Neuroscience (L.D.), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - M C Rocco
- From the Neuroradiology (R. Manara, M.C.R.), Sezione di Neuroscienze, Medicine and Surgery Department, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - R Cusmai
- Neurology Unit (R.C., D.L.), Department of Imaging, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - E Freri
- Department of Pediatric Neuroscience (E.F.), Foundation I.R.C.C.S., Neurological Institute "C. Besta," Milano, Italy
| | - L Pinelli
- Neuroradiology (L.P.), Section of Pediatric Neuroradiology, Department of Diagnostic Imaging ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - F Darra
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit (F.D.), Department of Life and Reproduction Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - E Procopio
- Metabolic and Neuromuscular Unit (E.P.), Department of Neuroscience, Meyer Children Hospital, Firenze, Italy
| | - R Mardari
- Department of Neuroscience (R. Mardari, M.E.)
| | - C Zanus
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health (C.Z.), IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo," Trieste, Italy
| | - G Di Rosa
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry (G.D.R.), Department of Human Pathology of the Adult and Developmental Age, University Hospital of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - C Soddu
- Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico "A. Cao" (C.S.), AOB Cagliari, Italy
| | - M Severino
- Neuroradiology Unit (M.S.), Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - M Ermani
- Department of Neuroscience (R. Mardari, M.E.)
| | - D Longo
- Neurology Unit (R.C., D.L.), Department of Imaging, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - S Sartori
- Pediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Woman and Child Health (S.S.), University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Longo D, Longo L, Lippi P, Cherubini G, Mangé V. Effects of laser therapy and Grimaldi's muscle shortening manoeuvre on motor control of subjects with incomplete spinal cord injuries. Laser Ther 2017; 26:203-209. [PMID: 29133968 DOI: 10.5978/islsm.17-or-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives From year 2003 we treated positively 251 patients with Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries (TSCI), using Non-Surgical Laser Therapy (NSLT). In order to increase muscle strength, we have also started using a physical therapy practice called Grimaldi's Muscle Shortening Manoeuvre (GMSM)The goal of our study is to obtain objective data suggesting the real effectiveness of the association of these two treatments. Study Design and Methods In 2015, 10 patients with incomplete TSCI were enrolled. Further 10 subjects with similar features were included as control group. All patients have subtotal sensory loss and motor paralysis below the level of the lesion. Lasers used were 808, 10600, and 1064 nm, applied with a first cycle of four sessions per day for a total of 20 sessions. The patients participated in specific physical therapy training (GMSM) twice a day, for a total of eight sessions.Each cycle of laser and GMSM was replicated each month. Results Results were considered positive if sensitivity increased at least two dermatomes per cycle under the level of the lesion. Results in muscle activity (on/off) were regarded as positive if sEMG showed modifications in CNS-muscle. Objective assessment of force displayed encouraging results. After each cycle, patients showed improvements in motor function and voluntary command. Follow-up is positive after 3 months. Conclusion Associating laser treatment and Grimaldi's Muscle Shortening Manoeuvre (MSM) seems to be effective on muscle strength and motor control in patients affected by subtotal SCI compared to a control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Longo
- Institute Laser Medicine, International Academy Laser Medicine And Surgery, Florence, Italy
| | - Leonardo Longo
- Institute Laser Medicine, International Academy Laser Medicine And Surgery, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Cherubini
- Institute Laser Medicine, International Academy Laser Medicine And Surgery, Florence, Italy
| | - Vanessa Mangé
- Institute Laser Medicine, International Academy Laser Medicine And Surgery, Florence, Italy
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Ori A, Fiori GG, Fernandez S, Longo D, Simoni L. Cost and Duration Of Regulatory Process in an Observational Study in Europe and USA. Value Health 2014; 17:A453. [PMID: 27201253 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2014.08.1229] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Ori
- MEDIDATA SRL, MODENA, Italy
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Zangari P, Messia V, Viccaro M, Bottero S, Marsella P, Longo D, Palma P, Luciani M, Locatelli F. C0545: Genetic Prothrombotic Factors in Children with Otogenic Lateral Sinus Thrombosis: Experience of an Italian Centre. Thromb Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s0049-3848(14)50297-6] [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: 11/30/2022]
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Ouzaid I, Eyraud R, Campbell S, Longo D, Haber G. Facteurs prédictifs du traitement actif des masses rénales évoquant des angiomyolipomes typiques sur une tomodensitométrie. Prog Urol 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2013.08.002] [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: 11/26/2022]
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Ouzaid I, Eyraud R, Campbell S, Longo D, Haber G. Évolution de la présentation et de la prise en charge des angiomyolipomes rénaux. Série de 392 patients sur trois décennies. Prog Urol 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2013.08.007] [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: 11/24/2022]
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Maggio M, Snyder PJ, Ceda GP, Milaneschi Y, Luci M, Cattabiani C, Masoni S, Vignali A, Volpi R, Lauretani F, Peachey H, Valenti G, Cappola AR, Longo D, Ferrucci L. Is the haematopoietic effect of testosterone mediated by erythropoietin? The results of a clinical trial in older men. Andrology 2012; 1:24-8. [PMID: 23258626 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2012.00009.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2011] [Revised: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 07/04/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The stimulatory effects of testosterone on erythropoiesis are very well known, but the mechanisms underlying the erythropoietic action of testosterone are still poorly understood, although erythropoietin has long been considered a potential mediator. A total of 108 healthy men >65 years old with serum testosterone concentration <475 ng/dL were recruited by direct mailings to alumni of the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University, and randomized to receive a 60-cm(2) testosterone or placebo patch for 36 months. Ninety-six subjects completed the trial. We used information and stored serum specimens from this trial to test the hypothesis that increasing testosterone increases haemoglobin by stimulating erythropoietin production. We used information of 67 men, 43 in the testosterone group and 24 in the placebo group who had banked specimens available for assays of testosterone, haemoglobin and erythropoietin at baseline and after 36 months. The original randomized clinical study was primarily designed to verify the effects of testosterone on bone mineral density. The primary outcome of this report was to investigate whether or not transdermal testosterone increases haemoglobin by increasing erythropoietin levels. The mean age ± SD of the 67 subjects at baseline was 71.8 ± 4.9 years. Testosterone replacement therapy for 36 months, as compared with placebo, induced a significant increase in haemoglobin (0.86 ± 0.31 g/dL, p = 0.01), but no change in erythropoietin levels (-0.24 ± 2.16 mIU/mL, p = 0.91). Included time-varying measure of erythropoietin did not significantly account for the effect of testosterone on haemoglobin (Treatment-by-time: β = 0.93, SE = 0.33, p = 0.01). No serious adverse effect was observed. Transdermal testosterone treatment of older men for 36 months significantly increased haemoglobin, but not erythropoietin levels. The haematopoietic effect of testosterone does not appear to be mediated by stimulation of erythropoietin production.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Maggio
- Department of Internal Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Section of Geriatrics, University of Parma, via Gramsci 14, Parma, Italy.
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Sharfman W, Urba W, Smith J, Janik J, Curti B, Gause B, Holmlund J, Steis R, Beauchamp A, Longo D. Phase i/ii trial of 5-Fluorouracil, leucovorin, Zidovudine and dipyridamole for patients with metastatic colorectal-cancer, renal-cell carcinoma and malignant-melanoma. Int J Oncol 2012; 6:579-83. [PMID: 21556574 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.6.3.579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
We conducted a phase I/II trial of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), calcium leucovorin (LV), zidovudine (AZT) and dipyridamole (DP), (FLAP) in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, renal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. AZT and DP were given to enhance the biochemical modulation and antitumor activity of 5-FU and LV. All patients received 5-FU (370 mg/m(2) i.v. bolus day 0-4), LV (50 mg/m(2) p.o. every 4 h day 0-4) and DP (50 mg/m(2) p.o. every 6 h days 0-27). In the phase I portion of the study, AZT was dose escalated in cohorts of 5 patients each, from 50 mg p.o. every 6 h days 0-27 to the MTD of 200 mg p.o. every 6 h days 0-27. Thirty-three patients received 200 mg of AZT in the phase II portion of the trial. Eleven patients developed grade III and 5 patients developed grade IV leukopenia. Four patients developed grade III and 21 patients developed grade IV neutropenia, with six febrile neutropenic episodes. Six patients experienced grade III anemia and four grade III thrombocytopenia. Diarrhea or stomatitis of greater than or equal to grade III occurred in six and four patients, respectively. Fifty-eight percent (19 of 33) of patients required dose reductions of AZT for hematologic toxicity (13 of 19 in the first treatment cycle). At the 200 mg AZT dose level, there were two partial responses in nine colorectal cancer patients (22%), no objective responses in 14 patients with renal cell carcinoma or in 14 patients with melanoma. FLAP does not have significant activity in melanoma, renal cell carcinoma or 5-FU-treated colorectal cancer patients, although it may have activity in untreated colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Sharfman
- NCI,FREDERICK CANC RES & DEV CTR,DIV CANC TREATMENT,BIOL RESPONSE MODIFIERS PROGRAM,FREDERICK,MD 21702. NCI,FREDERICK CANC RES & DEV CTR,PRI DYNCORP,FREDERICK,MD 21702. FREDERICK MEM HOSP,FREDERICK,MD
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Voena C, Menotti M, Mastini C, Di Giacomo F, Longo D, Martinengo C, Aime S, Cavallo F, Inghirami G, Chiarle R. 874 ALK Inhibitors and Vaccination Against Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) Induce Potent Anti-tumor Activity Improving Overall Survival in Non Small Cell Lung Carcinoma (NSCLC). Eur J Cancer 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(12)71506-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: 10/28/2022]
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Tagliani-Ribeiro A, Paskulin DD, Oliveira M, Zagonel-Oliveira M, Longo D, Ramallo V, Ashton-Prolla P, Saraiva-Pereira ML, Fagundes NJR, Schuler-Faccini L, Matte U. High twinning rate in Cândido Godói: a new role for p53 in human fertility. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2866-71. [PMID: 22736329 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cândido Godói (CG) is a small town in South Brazil, which has the highest prevalence of twin births in Brazil. Recently, a number of studies have shown that p53 plays an important role in reproduction through blastocyst implantation and intra utero embryo survival. Thus, gene polymorphisms in the p53 pathway were investigated in this population. METHODS Single nucleotide polymorphisms from five genes in the p53 pathway were investigated, as well as background characteristics of 42 mothers of twins (cases) and 101 mothers of singletons (controls), all residents from CG. RESULTS Mothers of twins have higher number of pregnancies and higher frequencies of P72 allele at TP53 and T allele at MDM4 genes compared with controls. Logistic regression shows that both TP53 and number of pregnancies maintained their association with twinning (P =0.004 and P =0.002, respectively), with TP53 having a higher odds ratio than number of pregnancies (2.73 versus 1.70, respectively). No interactive effect between TP53 and MDM4 (P =0.966) is observed. As expected, mothers of twins have three times more cases of cancer in their first-degree relatives than control mothers (P =0.011). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the P72 allele of TP53 is a strong risk factor for twinning in CG, while the number of pregnancies and the T allele at MDM4 may represent weaker risk factors. These two alleles are associated with infertility, but the anti-apoptotic effect of low levels of p53 in general, and of the P72 allele in particular, may play a role after implantation, enhancing the chance for a double pregnancy to succeed to term.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tagliani-Ribeiro
- INAGEMP - Instituto Nacional de Genética Médica Populacional, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Nogueira Delfino L, Fariello G, Lancella L, Marabotto C, Menchini L, Devito R, Errante Y, Quattrocchi CC, Longo D. Central nervous system tuberculosis in non-HIV-positive children: a single-center, 6 year experience. Radiol Med 2011; 117:669-78. [PMID: 22095412 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-011-0743-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2010] [Accepted: 04/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this paper is to describe the imaging features of central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in non-HIV-positive children. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective descriptive evaluation was conducted on imaging studies obtained from ten children admitted to our hospital over a 6-year period who fulfilled criteria for a diagnosis of CNS tuberculosis. Data were collected with regard to patients' clinical, laboratory and demographic characteristics, as well as results of radiological investigation. RESULTS We studied ten children, of whom five were boys and five were girls and whose mean age was 4 (range 7 months to 16) years. Neuroradiological findings on the first imaging study were basal meningeal enhancement (100%), hydrocephalus (70%), infarcts (90%), tuberculomas (40%) and cranial nerve involvement (20%). Follow-up studies revealed basal meningeal enhancement, hydrocephalus, and infarcts in all patients, tuberculomas in 70% and cranial nerve involvement in 50%. Only one patient showed a pattern of miliary tuberculosis. CONCLUSIONS CNS tuberculosis is still an important cause of childhood morbidity and mortality even in nonimmunosuppressed children. Because prompt diagnosis results in earlier treatment, it is crucial to be aware of tuberculous meningitis and its complications at imaging, especially because of the impact on patients' prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Nogueira Delfino
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Piazza Sant'Onofrio 4, 00100, Rome, Italy.
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Terreno E, Dastrù W, Delli Castelli D, Gianolio E, Geninatti Crich S, Longo D, Aime S. Advances in metal-based probes for MR molecular imaging applications. Curr Med Chem 2011; 17:3684-700. [PMID: 20846110 DOI: 10.2174/092986710793213823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2010] [Accepted: 08/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The role of MRI in the armory of diagnostic modalities for the medicine of the forthcoming years largely depends on how chemistry will provide advanced tools to meet the medical needs. This review aims at outlining the most innovative approaches that have been undertaken in the recent history of MRI contrast agents for tackling the challenges of sensitivity and specificity required by the new generation of contrast agents that should allow the visualization of pathological processes occurring on cellular and molecular scale (the so-called Molecular Imaging). Most of the classes of MRI agents clinically approved or currently under investigation in a preclinical phase exploit peculiar magnetic properties of metals. The conventional agents acting as T(1) or T(2)/T(2)* relaxation enhancers are primarily based on the paramagnetic or the superparamagnetic properties of Gd(III)-, Mn(II)- and iron oxides systems. Recently, there has been a renewed interest towards paramagnetic lanthanide complexes with an anisotropic electronic configuration thanks to their ability to induce strong effect on the resonance frequency of the spins dipolarly coupled with them. Such systems, formerly mainly used as shift reagents, have now attracted much attention in the emerging field of Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) MRI agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Terreno
- Department of Chemistry IFM and Molecular Imaging Center, University of Torino, Italy.
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Specchio N, Fusco L, Claps D, Trivisano M, Longo D, Cilio MR, Valeriani M, Cusmai R, Cappelletti S, Gentile S, Fariello G, Specchio LM, Vigevano F. Childhood refractory focal epilepsy following acute febrile encephalopathy. Eur J Neurol 2010; 18:952-61. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2010.03253.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Quattrocchi CC, Longo D, Delfino LN, Cilio MR, Piersigilli F, Capua MD, Seganti G, Danhaive O, Fariello G. Dorsal brain stem syndrome: MR imaging location of brain stem tegmental lesions in neonates with oral motor dysfunction. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2010; 31:1438-42. [PMID: 20395394 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a2103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The anatomic extent of brain stem damage may provide information about clinical outcome and prognosis in children with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and oral motor dysfunction. The aim of this study was to retrospectively characterize the location and extent of brain stem lesions in children with oral motor dysfunction. From January 2005 to August 2009, 43 infants hospitalized at our institution were included in the study because of a history of hypoxic-ischemic events. Of this group, 14 patients showed oral motor dysfunction and brain stem tegmental lesions detected at MR imaging. MR imaging showed hypoxic-ischemic lesions in supra- and infratentorial areas. Six of 14 patients revealed only infratentorial lesions. Focal symmetric lesions of the tegmental brain stem were always present. The lesions appeared hyperintense on T2-weighted images and hypointense on IR images. We found a strong association (P < .0001) between oral motor dysfunction and infratentorial lesions on MR imaging. Oral motor dysfunction was associated with brain stem tegmental lesions in posthypoxic-ischemic infants. The MR imaging examination should be directed to the brain stem, especially when a condition of prolonged gavage feeding is necessary in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Quattrocchi
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesu, Rome, Italy.
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Longo D, Colombo S, Dastrù W, Poggi L, Tedoldi F, Terreno E, Uggeri F, Aime S. CMR2009: 11.02: Evaluating iopamidol as pH-responsive CEST agent at 3 and 7 T. Contrast Media Mol Imaging 2009. [DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Longo D, Menchini L, Delfino LN, Lozzi S, Seganti G, Diomedi-Camassei F, Bottero S, Malena S, Fariello G. Parapharyngeal neuroglial heterotopia in Pierre Robin sequence: MR imaging findings. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2009; 73:1308-10. [PMID: 19540602 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2009.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Revised: 04/30/2009] [Accepted: 05/05/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Heterotopic neuroglial tissue is a rare lesion, occurring more frequently in the nasal cavities. Other rare locations are the orbit, the scalp, the palate, the pharynx, the parapharyngeal space and the lungs. They are usually detected occasionally because they are often asymptomatic, but sometimes they might present with dyspnoea, feeding difficulty, snorting and nasal flaring. Respiratory symptoms occur when heterotopic neuroglial tissue is located in the parapharyngeal space. We report a case of an infant affected by Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) who was admitted to our Institution for a worsening respiratory distress that was not explainable only by PRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Longo
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Piazza S. Onofrio 4, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
In this paper the latest results of an HIL architecture, optimized to develop and test UAV platforms are presented. This architecture has been used to realize the different devices involved in the navigation and stability control of the Volcan UAV, a plane designed to operate in volcanic environments. The proposed architecture is strongly modular and flexible and allows the development of avionic hardware and software, testing and tuning the involved algorithms with non-destructive trials. A flight simulator (X-Plane) with a suitable plane model and plug-in, has been adopted to simulate the UAV dynamics. The flight simulator, interfaced with the real electronic boards, allows an easy tuning of all the control parameters and data collecting for test and validation. The effectiveness of adopted methodology was confirmed by several flight tests performed subsequently by using the designed avionic modules on the real UAV.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Astuti
- Università degli Studi di Catania, Dipartimento di Ingegneria Elettrica, Elettronica e dei Sistemi (DIEES), Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - D. Longo
- Università degli Studi di Catania, Dipartimento di Ingegneria Elettrica, Elettronica e dei Sistemi (DIEES), Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - C. D. Melita
- Università degli Studi di Catania, Dipartimento di Ingegneria Elettrica, Elettronica e dei Sistemi (DIEES), Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - G. Muscato
- Università degli Studi di Catania, Dipartimento di Ingegneria Elettrica, Elettronica e dei Sistemi (DIEES), Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
| | - A. Orlando
- Università degli Studi di Catania, Dipartimento di Ingegneria Elettrica, Elettronica e dei Sistemi (DIEES), Viale A. Doria 6, Catania, Italy
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Sapuppo F, Longo D, Bucolo M, Intaglietta M, Arena P, Fortuna L. Real time blood flow velocity monitoring in the microcirculation. Conf Proc IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc 2007; 2004:2219-22. [PMID: 17272167 DOI: 10.1109/iembs.2004.1403647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A real-time monitoring system based on the dual slit methodology for the characterization of the red blood cell velocity at the level of microcirculation has been developed. The analog photometric signals are acquired and processed using a hybrid hardware-software system that exploits a A/D conversion and an optimized correlation algorithm on an embedded system. It is implemented exploiting the resources of a general purpose board capable to extract the useful information from the noisy photometric signals, to process them, to show and save the results and, therefore, to make the experiments reproducible. Two different approaches to the crosscorrelation algorithm have been tested and their performances have been compared to each. The system has been tested in in vivo experiments on anaesthetized hamsters. Several microvessels have been observed and the results have been compared to the output of an analog crosscorrelator to verify their coherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Sapuppo
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Elettrica Elettronica e dei Sistemi, Universitá degli Studi di Catania, Italy
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Aghai ZH, Mudduluru M, Nakhla TA, Amendolia B, Longo D, Kemble N, Kaki S, Sutsko R, Saslow JG, Stahl GE. Fluconazole prophylaxis in extremely low birth weight infants: association with cholestasis. J Perinatol 2006; 26:550-5. [PMID: 16940972 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jp.7211570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants are at increased risk for invasive candidiasis and associated morbidity and mortality. The use of fluconazole prophylaxis in this population has raised a benefit versus risk concern among clinicians. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of fluconazole prophylaxis in ELBW infants. STUDY DESIGN ELBW infants (BW<or=1,000 g) born during the pre-prophylaxis era (PPE, January 1998-February 2002) were compared with prophylaxis era (PE, March 2002-September 2005). Infants born during PE received fluconazole prophylaxis for 6 weeks, as long as they had intravenous access. Demographic and clinical data were collected. The two groups were compared for baseline demographics, risk factors for candidiasis, the incidence of invasive candidiasis, liver enzymes, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin (total and direct). RESULTS Nine out of 137 infants (6.6%) developed invasive candidiasis during PPE compared to none of 140 (0%) during PE (P=0.006). During PE, 60/140 (42.9%) infants developed conjugated hyperbilirubinemia compared to 12/137 (8.8%) during PPE (P<0.001). CONCLUSION Although a fluconazole prophylaxis regimen for ELBW infants was effective in preventing invasive candidiasis, an increase in the incidence of conjugated hyperbilirubinemia was observed. Further studies are needed to evaluate the safety of fluconazole prophylaxis in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z H Aghai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Cooper University Hospital-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, One Cooper Plaza, Camden, NJ 08103, USA.
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Abstract
OBJECT Cobalamin C/D defect is an inborn error of cobalamin metabolism causing methylmalonic aciduria and homocystinuria. The early-onset form is characterized by severe neurological impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate and monitor brain damage in early-onset cbl-C/D defect by conventional MRI and to assess the additional value of 1H-MRS. METHODS We retrospectively examined serial MRI studies of 7 patients, performed on a 1.5 T system. Four patients had the first evaluation within the first 4 months of life and three later. The imaging protocol included spin-echo T1-weighted, T2-weighted, IR, and FLAIR. Five patients underwent 1H-MRS, using chemical shift imaging (CSI) in three patients and single voxel spectroscopy (SVS) in two. RESULTS Three of the patients studied early showed tetraventricular hydrocephalus and diffuse swelling of supratentorial white matter with involvement of the "U" fibres. Two showed patchy cavitating lesions in the basal ganglia. White matter changes became evident at a later stage. In three cases 1H-MRS showed an abnormal peak of lactate in the basal ganglia or in the periventricular white matter. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows severe heterogeneous brain MR abnormalities in cbl-C/D defect. We observed unusual basal ganglia lesions in 30 % of our cases and also found a high incidence of hydrocephalus and supratentorial white matter abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Longo
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Tura A, Badanai M, Longo D, Quareni L. A multi-functional, portable device with wireless transmission for home monitoring of children with a learning disability. J Telemed Telecare 2005; 10:298-302. [PMID: 15494089 DOI: 10.1258/1357633042026369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A portable monitoring device was developed to assist in the management of children with a learning disability. The device was designed for continuous home monitoring of blood oxygen saturation, heart and respiration rates, and patient activity. It could be worn on a belt, while the patient continued normal activities. Data were stored on a multimedia card and automatically transmitted to a PC at prescribed intervals via a Bluetooth wireless link. From the PC the data were transmitted to a Web server, where the information was made available to the staff involved in the patient's care. Preliminary clinical studies were performed with nine patients (four with Down's syndrome, three with cerebral palsy and two with mental retardation). Patients and families considered the device easy to use and to wear. The monitoring device identified events of possible clinical interest. Although it was designed for monitoring children with a learning disability, it may also be useful with other groups, such as elderly people.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tura
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Research Council, Padova, Italy.
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Berton G, Cordiano R, Palmieri R, Petucco S, Longo D, Mormino P, Palatini P. IN ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION, HISTORY OF HYPERTENSION IS INDEPENDENTLY ASSOCIATED TO NON-SUDDEN-CARDIOVASCULAR MORTALITY AFTER 5-YEAR FOLLOW UP. J Hypertens 2004. [DOI: 10.1097/00004872-200406002-00596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Rembouskos G, Cicero S, Longo D, Vandecruys H, Nicolaides KH. Assessment of the fetal nasal bone at 11-14 weeks of gestation by three-dimensional ultrasound. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2004; 23:232-236. [PMID: 15027009 DOI: 10.1002/uog.952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the benefit of three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound in the examination of the fetal nasal bone at 11-14 weeks of gestation. METHOD We examined the fetal nasal bone in 120 stored volumes acquired transabdominally with a 3D scanner from singleton pregnancies at 11-14 weeks of gestation. The volume acquisition had been performed following conventional ultrasound examination that had demonstrated presence of the fetal nasal bone. The volumes were obtained with two-dimensional (2D) start images in transverse, coronal mid-sagittal, parasagittal and oblique longitudinal sections of the fetal head. RESULTS In the transverse and coronal sections, a satisfactory image demonstrating presence of the nasal bone was achieved in only three and one, respectively, of the 20 volumes that we obtained. In mid-sagittal sections, the nasal bone was always visible when the angle was within a range of 30-60 degrees, without the need for sectional image analysis. None of the images with an angle >60 degrees or <30 degrees was satisfactory. In the parasagittal sections with the fetal profile at 45 degrees, a good-quality image of the nasal bone was possible in all cases that were examined, irrespective of the distance from the mid-sagittal plane. In the oblique longitudinal sections with the fetal profile at 45 degrees, there were 10 volumes where the 2D start section was at 0-25 degrees from the midline and in all these cases the nasal bone was successfully visualized. In contrast, only 5/20 cases where the 2D start section was at 25-90 degrees from the midline provided a satisfactory image demonstrating the nasal bone. In 5/10 volumes obtained with the fetus facing downwards the nasal bone was visible in both the 2D and 3D images. CONCLUSION In a 3D volume the extent to which the nasal bone can be demonstrated to be present in a given reconstructed section is entirely dependent on obtaining a good initial 2D view.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rembouskos
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital Medical School, London, UK
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Winnicki M, Somers VK, Clinic M, Santonastaso M, Mos L, Longo D, Dorigatti F, Munari L, Folio MD, Biasion T, Garavelli G, Pegoraro F, Palatini P. INTERACTIONS BETWEEN FAMILY HISTORY OF HYPERTENSION AND LIFESTYLE IN PROGRESSION OF HYPERTENSION. J Hypertens 2004. [DOI: 10.1097/00004872-200402001-00448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Longo D, DeFigueiredo D, Cicero S, Sacchini C, Nicolaides KH. Femur and humerus length in trisomy 21 fetuses at 11-14 weeks of gestation. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2004; 23:143-147. [PMID: 14770393 DOI: 10.1002/uog.970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the value of measuring fetal femur and humerus length at 11-14 weeks of gestation in screening for chromosomal defects. METHODS Femur and humerus lengths were measured using transabdominal ultrasound in 1018 fetuses immediately before chorionic villus sampling for karyotyping at 11-14 weeks of gestation. In the group of chromosomally normal fetuses, regression analysis was used to determine the association between long bone length and crown-rump length (CRL). Femur and humerus lengths in fetuses with trisomy 21 were compared with those of normal fetuses. RESULTS The median gestation was 12 (range, 11-14) weeks. The karyotype was normal in 920 fetuses and abnormal in 98, including 65 cases of trisomy 21. In the chromosomally normal group the fetal femur and humerus lengths increased significantly with CRL (femur length = - 6.330 + 0.215 x CRL in mm, r = 0.874, P < 0.0001; humerus length = - 6.240 + 0.220 x CRL in mm, r = 0.871, P < 0.0001). In the Bland-Altman plot the mean difference between paired measurements of femur length was 0.21 mm (95% limits of agreement - 0.52 to 0.48 mm) and of humerus length was 0.23 mm (95% limits of agreement - 0.57 to 0.55 mm). In the trisomy 21 fetuses the median femur and humerus lengths were significantly below the appropriate normal mean for CRL by 0.4 and 0.3 mm, respectively (P = 0.002), but they were below the respective 5th centile of the normal range in only six (9.2%) and three (4.6%) of the cases, respectively. CONCLUSION At 11-14 weeks of gestation the femur and humerus lengths in trisomy 21 fetuses are significantly reduced but the degree of deviation from normal is too small for these measurements to be useful in screening for trisomy 21.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Longo
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital Medical School, London, UK
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Longo D, Garbelotto R, Sanigi C, Perkovic D, Zaetta V, Graniero GR, Winnicki M, Palatini P, Munari L. GENETIC BACKGROUND OF IMPAIRED ARTERIAL COMPLIANCE IN EARLY STAGE OF HYPERTENSION. J Hypertens 2004. [DOI: 10.1097/00004872-200402001-00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Rembouskos G, Cicero S, Longo D, Sacchini C, Nicolaides KH. Single umbilical artery at 11-14 weeks' gestation: relation to chromosomal defects. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2003; 22:567-570. [PMID: 14689527 DOI: 10.1002/uog.901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the possible association between single umbilical artery (SUA) at 11-14 weeks of gestation and the incidence of chromosomal abnormalities. METHODS Color flow imaging of the fetal pelvis was used to determine the number of umbilical arteries in 717 fetuses immediately before chorionic villus sampling for karyotyping at 11-14 weeks' gestation. RESULTS Single umbilical artery (SUA) was diagnosed in 21/634 (3.3%) chromosomally normal fetuses, in 5/44 (11.4%) with trisomy 21, 14/18 (77.8%) with trisomy 18 and 2/21 (9.5%) with other chromosomal defects. In the chromosomally normal group there was no significant difference in median fetal crown-rump length or nuchal translucency (NT) between those with a single and those with two umbilical arteries. In the 42 fetuses with SUA the expected number of cases of trisomy 21, estimated on the basis of maternal age, gestational age and fetal NT, was 4.7, which was not significantly different from the observed 5. The corresponding numbers for trisomy 18 were 2.0 for expected and 14 for observed (Fisher's exact test P = 0.0016). CONCLUSION A SUA at 11-14 weeks' gestation has a high association with trisomy 18 and other chromosomal defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Rembouskos
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital Medical School, London, UK
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Petruzzella V, Di Giacinto G, Scacco S, Piemonte F, Torraco A, Carrozzo R, Vergari R, Dionisi-Vici C, Longo D, Tessa A, Papa S, Bertini E. Atypical Leigh syndrome associated with the D393N mutation in the mitochondrial ND5 subunit. Neurology 2003; 61:1017-8. [PMID: 14557590 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000080363.10902.e9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- V Petruzzella
- Department of Medical Biochemistry & Medical Biology, University of Bari, Italy
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Cicero S, Longo D, Rembouskos G, Sacchini C, Nicolaides KH. Absent nasal bone at 11-14 weeks of gestation and chromosomal defects. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2003; 22:31-35. [PMID: 12858299 DOI: 10.1002/uog.170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between absence of the nasal bone at the 11-14-week ultrasound scan and chromosomal defects. METHODS Ultrasound examination was carried out in 3829 fetuses at 11-14 weeks' gestation immediately before fetal karyotyping. At the scan the fetal crown-rump length (CRL) and nuchal translucency (NT) thickness were measured and the fetal profile was examined for the presence or absence of the nasal bone. Maternal characteristics including ethnic origin were also recorded. RESULTS The fetal profile was successfully examined in 3788 (98.9%) cases. In 3358/3788 cases the fetal karyotype was normal and in 430 it was abnormal. In the chromosomally normal group the incidence of absent nasal bone was related firstly to the ethnic origin of the mother (2.8% for Caucasians, 10.4% for Afro-Caribbeans and 6.8% for Asians), secondly to fetal CRL (4.6% for CRL of 45-54 mm, 3.9% for CRL of 55-64 mm, 1.5% for CRL of 65-74 mm and 1.0% for CRL of 75-84 mm) and thirdly, to NT thickness, (1.8% for NT < 2.5 mm, 3.4% for NT 2.5-3.4 mm, 5.0% for NT 3.5-4.4 mm and 11.8% for NT > or = 4.5 mm. In the chromosomally abnormal group the nasal bone was absent in 161/242 (66.9%) with trisomy 21, in 48/84 (57.1%) with trisomy 18, in 7/22 (31.8%) with trisomy 13, in 3/34 (8.8%) with Turner syndrome and in 4/48 (8.3%) with other defects. CONCLUSION At the 11-14-week scan the incidence of absent nasal bone is related to the presence or absence of chromosomal defects, CRL, NT thickness and ethnic origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Cicero
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital Medical School, London, UK
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Abstract
The regulatory benefit of apoptosis (activation-induced cell death, AICD) in T cells may be impacted by immunosuppressive agents. We examined this for mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) compared with cyclosporine (CYA). Peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) were stimulated by either Staph enterotoxin B (SEB) or by anti-CD3 plus anti-CD28. Cell division analysis (sequential reduction in carboxyflourescein diacetate succinimidyl ester, CFSE) was used to measure proliferation and determine status of different cell generations. Apoptosis was measured by annexin V staining, and FasL expression by anti-FasL antibody staining, of activated cells using flow cytometry. CSA and mycophenolic acid (MPA, the active agent of MMF) were added in titration in 3-day cultures. We found that CSA caused diminution in apoptosis but MPA increased it with SEB stimulation. The CSA effect on apoptosis was present when a more calcineurin-dependent stimulus. anti-CD3+ anti-CD28, was used but the MPA effect was less, producing a decrease only in the undivided cells. To look more directly at the differential effect on calcineurin-dependent AICD gene induction of the two agents, we measured Fas-L expression with anti-CD-3 + CD28 stimulation, and confirmed that CYA caused a major decrement in appearance of Fas-L, whereas MPA caused a converse accumulation of it. This seems to be explained by the block more distal in cell activation, resulting in a build-up of a precursor in the activation pathways. We conclude that MMF treatment may be rationale as an adjunct to calcineurin inhibitor treatment because of its converse effect on T cell regulatory apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nakamura
- The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, and the Laboratory of Immunology, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21287-8611, USA
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Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 is frequently associated with increased intensity T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain abnormalities, called "unidentified bright objects." Unidentified bright objects are generally held to be benign and tend to decrease in size during adulthood. We describe a case of neurofibromatosis type 1 with a similar thalamic and subthalamic MRI abnormality associated with contralateral hand dystonia. Over a 2-year follow-up, the lesions showed a reduction in size apparently correlated with a reduction in symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Di Capua
- Department of Neurology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, National Medical Research Institute, Rome, Italy.
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