21 results on '"Masucci M"'
Search Results
2. Pressing, pressure and re-aggressing as tactical movement of anterior cruciate ligament injuries in women's soccer.
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D'Onofrio R, Pompa D, Savoia C, Masucci M, Laterza F, and Manzi V
- Abstract
Introduction: A better understanding of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury mechanisms in female soccer can guide better research on both prevention programs and late-stage rehabilitation for the return-to-sport process. This narrative review investigates the technical and tactical game situations in female soccer linked to ACL injury mechanisms., Evidence Acquisition: Through a literature search, we reviewed scientific literature to identify soccer-specific technical movements and tactical patterns that increase the risk of ACL injuries in female players. Articles were retrieved through Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and PubMed Central. Inclusion criteria were: 1) studies on ACL injury mechanisms in women's soccer; 2) studies examining soccer techniques/tactics to identify non-contact injury mechanisms. Gray literature was included to supplement limited indexed data, aiming to stay within author guidelines., Evidence Synthesis: Female athletes experience a 2-8 times higher risk of ACL injury than males, with 70% of these injuries being non-contact. Common scenarios leading to these injuries involve ball possession/non-possession phases, tactical actions (pressing, pressure, re-aggression), and technical movements (cutting, changing direction). Tactical aspects, particularly pressing and re-aggression, are key contributors to ACL injury risk regardless of ball possession., Conclusions: In female soccer, ACL injuries are related to non-contact injury mechanisms during technical and tactical situations. The knowledge and study of these situational patterns of play, such as pressing, re-aggression, pressure, and cutting maneuvers, are essential to target prevention strategies and return-to-sport processes objectively.
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- 2024
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3. Injury prevention in professional soccer players: can re-warmup training be organized in the post-warmup and half-time during a soccer game in a short time?
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D'Onofrio R, Laterza F, Sannicandro I, Masucci M, Bovenzi A, and Manzi V
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- Humans, Athletic Performance physiology, Time Factors, Athletic Injuries prevention & control, Soccer injuries, Soccer physiology, Warm-Up Exercise physiology
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Introduction: Passive time, during the post-warmup and half-time, decreases athletes' performance and increases injury risk factors in the active phases of the soccer match. Objective. This narrative review aims to research and synthesize existing evidence to identify brief re-warmup strategies that may find applicability in the post-warmup and half-time of a soccer match., Evidence Acquisition: The analysis was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, PEDro, SPORTDiscus and Google Scholar. Due to the lack of evidence, no temporal time was established, preferring most up-to-date articles. The data were synthesized in relation to the objectives, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines., Evidence Synthesis: Our research yielded a total of 753 studies, 463 related to re-warmup, 136 articles on re-warmup in soccer, and 154 articles on re-warmup during half-time. Of these, 26 met the inclusion objectives and were included in this research. Our findings confirm that a re-warmup can mitigate the decremental effect of static rest on performance. From the studies considered, we have identified a work that emphasizes how a 1-minute warmup of high-intensity exercise at speed corresponding to 90% of VO
2max can prevent decreases related to passive time, in sprint performance and muscle strength, as well as improve muscle temperature. These results could apply to both post-warmup and half-time scenarios of a soccer match., Conclusions: From this narrative review, it has been possible to highlight a one-minute high-intensity re-warmup that improved sprint performance, increased core temperature, and enhanced muscle activation, not leading to additional physiological or psychological fatigue.- Published
- 2024
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4. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and other markers of inflammation in cats tested for Leishmania infantum and feline immunodeficiency virus antibodies.
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Donato G, Caspanello T, Caprì A, De Majo M, Iannelli NM, Rosace F, Bruno F, Castelli G, Pennisi MG, and Masucci M
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- Cats, Animals, Male, Prospective Studies, Antibodies, Viral blood, Female, Feline Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome blood, Feline Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome immunology, Coinfection veterinary, Coinfection parasitology, Coinfection virology, Antibodies, Protozoan blood, Leishmania infantum immunology, Immunodeficiency Virus, Feline immunology, Cat Diseases blood, Cat Diseases parasitology, Cat Diseases immunology, Inflammation veterinary, Inflammation blood, Biomarkers blood, Leishmaniasis, Visceral veterinary, Leishmaniasis, Visceral blood, Leishmaniasis, Visceral immunology, Leishmaniasis, Visceral parasitology, Blood Sedimentation
- Abstract
Background: In endemic areas, Leishmania infantum and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) co-infection occurs in cats, and may favour a progressive course of feline leishmaniosis. Abnormalities in serum protein fractions have been reported, but inflammation markers have scarcely been studied. Erythrocyte sediment rate (ESR) is a marker of inflammation that is poorly used in veterinary medicine, but it has been evaluated in EDTA blood using a recently introduced automatic device. We studied ESR and a pool of feline markers of inflammation (MoI) in cats L. infantum (Li
+ ) and/or FIV antibody-positive (Li+ FIV+ /FIV+ ) with the aims (a) to evaluate ESR as MoI in cats with the infectious and clinical conditions considered and (b) to provide data about a pool of MoI never investigated in the feline infections studied and in other cat diseases before., Methods: This prospective controlled study included 35 study group cats (Li+ , n = 20; FIV +, n = 8; Li+ FIV+ , n = 7) and ten healthy antibody-negative control cats. Clinical findings at physical examination and selected clinical pathological abnormalities related to inflammation were statistically analysed in relation to the infectious status and ESR values., Results: ESR values were higher in Li+ , FIV+ , and Li+ FIV+ cats compared with control cats, and 40% of the study group cats had ESR values above the reference interval (RI). ESR positively correlated with some positive MoI and negatively with some negative MoI studied. Additionally, a higher prevalence of ESR values above the RI has been detected in cats with hypoalbuminemia or hypergammaglobulinemia and higher ESR values were measured in cats with serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) fraction abnormalities. Correlations were also found with erythrocytes, hemoglobin, hematocrit and some erythrocyte indices. FIV+ and Li+ FIV+ cats had a higher prevalence of increased ESR values, and almost all had SPE abnormalities and more severe clinical presentations compared with Li+ cats., Conclusions: Abnormal levels of MoI were found in almost all parameters studied, particularly in FIV+ and Li+ FIV+ cats. Also, ESR can be used as a marker of inflammation in cats with L. infantum and/or FIV infection., (© 2024. The Author(s).)- Published
- 2024
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5. Bridging the Divide: A Review on the Implementation of Personalized Cancer Medicine.
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Masucci M, Karlsson C, Blomqvist L, and Ernberg I
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The shift towards personalized cancer medicine (PCM) represents a significant transformation in cancer care, emphasizing tailored treatments based on the genetic understanding of cancer at the cellular level. This review draws on recent literature to explore key factors influencing PCM implementation, highlighting the role of innovative leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and coordinated funding and regulatory strategies. Success in PCM relies on overcoming challenges such as integrating diverse medical disciplines, securing sustainable investment for shared infrastructures, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Effective leadership is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork, essential for translating complex biological insights into personalized treatment strategies. The transition to PCM necessitates not only organizational adaptation but also the development of new professional roles and training programs, underscoring the need for a multidisciplinary approach and the importance of team science in overcoming the limitations of traditional medical paradigms. The conclusion underscores that PCM's success hinges on creating collaborative environments that support innovation, adaptability, and shared vision among all stakeholders involved in cancer care.
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- 2024
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6. Pilot Study on QTc Interval in Dogs Treated with Domperidone.
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Donato G, Caspanello T, De Majo M, Masucci M, Iannelli D, Santoro S, Caprì A, Iannelli NM, and Pennisi MG
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Domperidone is used as an immunomodulatory drug for Leishmania infantum infection and disease in dogs. However, a pro-arrhythmic side effect, caused by prolonged QT intervals, is reported in humans. This pilot study evaluated the corrected QT (QTc) interval in dogs treated with domperidone for preventive or therapeutic management of leishmaniosis. The electrocardiogram and blood concentration of creatinine, urea nitrogen, sodium, potassium, and chloride were evaluated seven days before the start and on the last day of therapy in 17 dogs receiving domperidone for four weeks. In two dogs, the QTc interval was measured before and 2 h, 3 h, and 12 h after administration of the drug on the first day of treatment. After treatment, QTc measures and chloride concentrations increased significantly, although the QTc value slightly exceeded the upper reference limit only in one dog, and chloride concentrations were always normal. Creatinine concentrations significantly decreased after therapy. In the two dogs monitored at different times on the first day of treatment, QTc values were always normal. Domperidone caused a slight prolongation of QTc interval, and further studies should be made for a risk assessment in dogs with cardiac diseases, electrolytic imbalance, and in those receiving drugs increasing QT interval or competing with domperidone metabolism.
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- 2024
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7. A Retrospective Comparative Evaluation of Selected Blood Cell Ratios, Acute Phase Proteins, and Leukocyte Changes Suggestive of Inflammation in Cats.
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Donato G, Pennisi MG, Persichetti MF, Archer J, and Masucci M
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Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte (MLR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte (PLR) ratios have been proposed as diagnostic and prognostic markers for neoplastic and inflammatory diseases in dogs and cats. The aim of this retrospective preliminary study was to evaluate the relationship between these ratios and markers of inflammation routinely measured in cats. A total of 275 cats were enrolled. Complete blood count, serum amyloid A (SAA), albumin, globulin, and albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) data were analyzed, as well as the presence of leukocyte alterations considered suggestive of inflammation (LAI: neutrophils left shift, toxic neutrophils, and reactive lymphocytes) evaluated in blood smears. The NLR and MLR correlated positively with SAA and globulins and negatively with albumin and AGR. Higher NLR and MLR were found in cats with increased SAA and globulins and decreased albumin and AGR. The PLR correlated negatively with albumin and AGR. A higher PLR was found in cats with hypoalbuminemia. Cats with LAI had higher NLR, MLR, and PLR. In cats with no changes in parameters indicative of inflammation, 11.25, 0.42, and 528.3 were identified as upper limits for NLR, MLR, and PLR, respectively. In conclusion, the NLR, MLR, and PLR act as good inflammatory markers easily evaluated by routine hematology.
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- 2023
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8. Prevention of Secondary Injury after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Relationship between Pelvic-Drop and Dynamic Knee Valgus.
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D'Onofrio R, Alashram AR, Annino G, Masucci M, Romagnoli C, Padua E, and Manzi V
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- Female, Humans, Male, Anterior Cruciate Ligament, Knee Joint, Lower Extremity surgery, Retrospective Studies, Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries surgery, Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction adverse effects
- Abstract
(1) Background: Optimal neuromuscular, Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex, and lower extremity control are associated with decreased risk factors for secondary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This study aimed to analyze any asymmetries and malalignments in the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex and the lower limbs at 6 months after ACL reconstruction (ACLR). (2) Methods: We conducted an exploratory retrospective observational single-center study in patients during the outpatient postoperative rehabilitation program at ICOT (Latina, Italy). From January 2014 to June 2020, 181 patients were recruited, but only 100 patients (86 male 28 ± 0.6 years, 178 ± 0.5 height; 14 female 24 ± 2.0 years, 178 ± 3.0 height) were eligible for the inclusion criteria and studied 6 months after ACL reconstruction surgery. (3) Statistical analysis: Student's t -tests and Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient were used to determine significant differences between affected and non-affected limbs and variables' association. (4) Results: The study shows a decrease in neuromuscular control of the Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex and dynamic adaptive valgus of the knee at 6 months after ACLR (mean difference between pathological and healthy limb of dynamic adaptive valgus was -10.11 ± 8.19° 95% CI -14.84 to -9.34; mean value was 16.3 ± 6.8° 95% CI 14.04 to 18.55 for healthy limb and 4.2 ± 3.1° 95% CI 3.15 to 5.21 for pathological limb, p < 0.0001). The results also showed a relationship between dynamic adaptive valgus and contralateral pelvic drop (r = 0.78, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.88, magnitude of correlation very large). (5) Conclusions: The analysis showed an associative correlation between decreased postural control of the pelvic girdle and dynamic adaptive valgus of the knee in 38% of patients; this study highlights the usefulness of the Single-Leg Squat Test (SLST) as a clinical/functional assessment to evaluate the rehabilitation process and as a preventive tool to reduce the risk of second ACL injuries during the return to sport.
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- 2023
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9. Prevalence and Features of Incidental Findings in Veterinary Computed Tomography: A Single-Center Six-Years' Experience.
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Caspanello T, Masucci M, Iannelli D, Iannelli NM, and De Majo M
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Computed tomography (CT) is an advanced imaging technique that may lead to detect "incidentalomas", unexpected asymptomatic lesions found during unrelated examinations. Their clinical meaning and management are not clear for veterinarians, who risk unnecessary investigations that harm the patients. This study is a retrospective analysis that aims to investigate incidentalomas in CT exams and to describe their prevalence, location, types and follow-up, their correlations and associations with the species, breed, sex, and age of patients examined and with the kind and number of sites scanned. The reports of 561 CT scans performed in 512 dogs and 49 cats in a veterinary facility over six years were reviewed and compared to the clinical records of the patients. Eighty incidentalomas were found in 57 dogs and four cats. A significant positive correlation was found in dogs between age and the prevalence of incidentalomas. In dogs, the prevalence of incidentalomas was significantly higher in Boxers and in neck, thoracic, and abdominal scans. Spinal incidentalomas were the most common typologies in dogs. This study can represent a tool that allows clinicians to acquire greater awareness about incidentalomas and to carry out the evidence-based clinical management of them.
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- 2023
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10. Leptospira spp. Prevalence in Cats from Southern Italy with Evaluation of Risk Factors for Exposure and Clinical Findings in Infected Cats.
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Donato G, Masucci M, Hartmann K, Goris MGA, Ahmed AA, Archer J, Alibrandi A, and Pennisi MG
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Leptospirosis is a worldwide zoonotic disease, but feline leptospirosis is rarely reported. This study aimed at investigating Leptospira spp. prevalence in cats from southern Italy, evaluating risk factors, clinical findings and laboratory data associated with infection. The serum of 112 cats was investigated by microscopic agglutination test (MAT), detecting anti- Leptospira antibodies against 14 pathogenic serovars. Blood and urine samples were tested by a real-time polymerase chain reaction targeting the lipL32 gene of pathogenic Leptospira . Antibodies against serovars Poi, Bratislava, Arborea, Ballum, Pomona and Lora were detected in 15.3% (17/111) of cats (titers range: 20-320). Leptospira spp. DNA was found in 3% (4/109) of blood and 9% (10/111) of urine samples. The spring season was the only risk factor for urinary Leptospira DNA shedding. Laboratory abnormalities significantly associated and/or correlated with Leptospira spp. positivity were anemia, monocytosis, neutrophilia, eosinopenia, increased alanine aminotransferase activity, hypoalbuminemia and hyperglobulinemia. In the investigated areas, cats are frequently infected by Leptospira spp. and can represent an additional reservoir or sentinel for a risk of infection. Moreover, some laboratory changes could be compatible with a pathogenic effect of Leptospira spp. in the feline host.
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- 2022
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11. Effects of a Novel Gel Formulation of Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) on Behavioral and Physiological Stress Responses in Dogs Undergoing Clinical Examination.
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Puglisi I, Masucci M, Cozzi A, Teruel E, Navarra M, Cirmi S, Pennisi MG, and Siracusa C
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The veterinary visit is necessary for safeguarding the health of dogs, but it can be stressful and threaten both the welfare of the patient and the accuracy of the examination. This randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study aims at evaluating how dog appeasing pheromone (DAP) in a novel gel formulation influences the behavioral and physiological stress responses of 28 dogs undergoing a standardized clinical examination, while staying in the waiting room (WR) and visited in the examination room (ER). Behavioral responses were studied through behavioral categories and subjective scales (WR and ER). Autonomic response considered heart rate (WR and ER), blood pressure (WR and ER), respiratory rate (ER), and rectal temperature (ER). Neuroendocrine response considered salivary cortisol (WR and ER). In the waiting room, the use of DAP was associated with a significant reduction of lip licking ( p = 0.0189), an increase in panting ( p = 0.0276), and a reduction close to significance ( p = 0.0584) of low body postures. No significant differences were observed within the physiological responses. In the examination room, neither behavioral nor physiological differences were found.
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- 2022
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12. Hemogram Findings in Cats from an Area Endemic for Leishmania infantum and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Infections.
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Masucci M, Donato G, Persichetti MF, Priolo V, Castelli G, Bruno F, and Pennisi MG
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In feline Leishmania infantum ( Li ) infection and in clinical cases of feline leishmaniosis, co-infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) has been reported. However, the role of the retroviral co-infection in the impairment of feline clinical health is still controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate hemogram changes in cats from regions endemic for both Li and FIV infection. Four hundred and ninety-six cats tested for Li (EDTA blood polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence antibody test) and for FIV infection (enzyme-linked immune assay) were retrospectively evaluated. Hemogram results including blood smear morphological evaluation were statistically compared considering four infection patterns: Li +FIV+, Li +FIV-, Li -FIV+, and Li -FIV-. Significantly lower values of erythrocytes ( Li +FIV-: p = 0.0248; Li -FIV+: p = 0.0392) and hemoglobin ( Li +FIV: p = 0.0086; Li -FIV+: p = 0.0249) were found in both infections when compared to Li -FIV- cats, and severity of anemia was more frequently moderate in Li -positive cats ( p = 0.0206) and severe in FIV infection ( p = 0.024). Li infection was associated with monocytosis ( p = 0.0013) and morphologically activated monocytes ( p = 0.0209). Moreover, FIV infection was associated with the presence of inflammatory leukogram ( p = 0.023), and an association between thrombocytosis and the co-infection was found ( p = 0.0347). Li infection in cats induces hematological changes compatible with chronic inflammation, some of which are due to co-infection with FIV.
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- 2022
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13. Leishmania infantum Specific Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses in Cats and Dogs: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study.
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Priolo V, Martínez-Orellana P, Pennisi MG, Raya-Bermúdez AI, Jurado-Tarifa E, Masucci M, Donato G, Bruno F, Castelli G, and Solano-Gallego L
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Dogs are the main reservoir of Leishmania infantum and display different immunological patterns correlating with the progression of infection to disease. Data about feline L. infantum adaptive immune response are scant. This study aimed to compare the prevalence and immune response in cats and dogs from the same endemic area of canine leishmaniosis. Stray cats (109) and rescued dogs (59) from Córdoba (Spain) were enrolled. Data about their exposure to L. infantum were analyzed by detection of parasite DNA, measurements of Leishmania- specific interferon-γ (whole blood assay in 57 cats and 29 dogs), and antibodies (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescence antibody test). An overall L. infantum prevalence of 30.5% in dogs and 30% in cats were found according to serology and PCR tests. Prevalence was 44.8% in dogs and 35.1% in cats tested also for interferon-γ production. Dogs showed higher anti- L. infantum antibody levels compared to cats. More than one-third of cats had contact with or were infected by L. infantum and they may contribute to the endemicity of leishmaniosis in the investigated region. The immunopathogenesis of feline L. infantum infection has similarities with dogs but cats show a lower level of adaptive immune response compared to dogs.
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- 2022
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14. Relationship between aerobic fitness and metabolic power metrics in elite male soccer players.
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Manzi V, Annino G, Savoia C, Caminiti G, Padua E, Masucci M, D'Onofrio R, and Iellamo F
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The aim was to assess the relationship between aerobic fitness and metabolic power metrics in elite male soccer players, and the possible differences that playing positions might impose during match play over new metabolic power metrics. Sixty-two elite professional male soccer players (13 central backs, 13 side backs, 22 midfielders, and 14 forwards) took part in the study. Players were monitored during eleven months of full training (including pre-season and in-season) and over all official matches (Serie A matches, Italy Cup matches). Aerobic fitness tests were conducted one week after the start of the preseason, and 8, 24 and 36 weeks after the beginning of the Championship. Players' aerobic fitness and metabolic power metrics were considered as the mean of all seasonal testing and of pooling data of 38 championship matches and 3 or 6 Italy Cup matches for all the calculations respectively. The velocity at 4 mmol·L
-1 (VL4 ) was significantly related to metabolic power metrics match variables with correlation ranging from trivial to very large (r = 0.32 to r = 0.89). Receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that speed at VL4 was sensitive in detecting high metabolic power distance (HMPD) changes in all but central back players as revealed by area under the curve (central back .78, 95%CI .47 to .95; full back .93, 95%CI .64 to 0.99; midfielder .88, 95%CI .67 to 0.98; forward .90, 95%CI .62 to 0.99). This study's findings provide further evidence for the ecological validity of aerobic fitness in elite male soccer players. Players having a HMPD cut-off equal to or higher than > 1450 m for central backs, > 1990 m for full backs, > 2170 m for midfielders and > 1670 m for forwards may be considered as possessing superior aerobic fitness status. In light of this study's findings, the VL4 test may be considered a valid test to evaluate meaningful information for direct generic aerobic training in soccer players., (Copyright © Biology of Sport 2022.)- Published
- 2022
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15. Point of care testing to monitor INR control in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome.
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Masucci M, Li Kam Wa A, Shingleton E, Martin J, Mahir Z, and Breen K
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Patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) typically require lifelong warfarin anticoagulation following a thrombotic event due to a significant risk of recurrent thrombosis. Point of care testing (POCT) to monitor INR is discouraged in patients with APS as interactions between antiphospholipid antibodies and thromboplastin used for INR testing may influence results. Review of INR testing in 36 APS patients showed 87.2% of paired POCT and venous INRs ( n = 94) having acceptable variation (≤0.5 difference), and high correlation ( r = 0.9) excluding INRs ≥4.8. Six-month TTR was comparable for APS patients using POCT (57.1% ± 24.8%) to those using venous INR monitoring (59.2% ± 23.2%) ( p = 0.66). These results support POCT management of APS but requires further study., Competing Interests: The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship and/or publication of this article., (© 2022 The Authors. eJHaem published by British Society for Haematology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
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- 2022
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16. Association between feline immunodeficiency virus and Leishmania infantum infections in cats: a retrospective matched case-control study.
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Priolo V, Masucci M, Donato G, Solano-Gallego L, Martínez-Orellana P, Persichetti MF, Raya-Bermúdez A, Vitale F, and Pennisi MG
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- Animals, Antibodies, Protozoan, Case-Control Studies, Cats, Dogs, Humans, Male, Retrospective Studies, Cat Diseases diagnosis, Coinfection epidemiology, Immunodeficiency Virus, Feline, Leishmania infantum, Leishmaniasis, Leishmaniasis, Visceral diagnosis, Leishmaniasis, Visceral epidemiology, Leishmaniasis, Visceral veterinary
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Background: Feline leishmaniosis caused by Leishmania infantum is often associated with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection; however, the role and clinical significance of this coinfection remain unknown. This study aimed to assess whether FIV is associated with L. infantum infection in cats from canine leishmaniosis endemic areas and to report the clinical signs and hematological alterations associated with coinfection., Methods: A retrospective matched case-control study (ratio 1:2) was conducted. Data of clinical examination and complete blood count (CBC) were selected from a cohort of 705 cats examined for epidemiological studies on feline leishmaniosis conducted between 2012 and 2019. Ninety-one FIV seropositive cases and 182 FIV seronegative control cats were selected. Matching was done according to age, sex, lifestyle and geographic provenience of case cats. Rapid ELISA devices were mainly used to detect anti-FIV antibodies. Anti-Leishmania IgG antibodies were detected by indirect-immunofluorescence test (IFAT). Leishmania DNA was searched in blood, oral and conjunctival swabs by quantitative real-time PCR., Results: Feline immunodeficiency virus seropositive cats had no hematological abnormalities suggestive of an advanced stage of FIV infection and were statistically more frequently IFAT positive, and their risk of being L. infantum antibody positive was 2.8 greater than in the FIV seronegatives. The association of FIV seropositivity with L. infantum antibody positivity was confirmed in the univariable model of logistic regression. A multivariate model found FIV infection and L. infantum PCR positivity as predictors of a positive L. infantum IFAT result. Male outdoor cats from rural or suburban areas were at risk for FIV and L. infantum antibody positivity. Clinical signs more frequently associated with the coinfection were oral lesions, pale mucous membranes and low body condition score (BCS)., Conclusions: This study documents that FIV seropositive cats with no hematological abnormalities suggestive of an advanced stage of FIV infection are more prone to be L. infantum seroreactive by IFAT in endemic areas. Therefore, FIV seropositive cats should be tested for L. infantum antibodies and treated for preventing sand fly bites. Pale mucous membranes, low BCS and oral lesions but no CBC abnormalities were significantly associated with the coinfection., (© 2022. The Author(s).)
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- 2022
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17. Author Correction: The Molecular Tumor Board Portal supports clinical decisions and automated reporting for precision oncology.
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Tamborero D, Dienstmann R, Rachid MH, Boekel J, Lopez-Fernandez A, Jonsson M, Razzak A, Braña I, De Petris L, Yachnin J, Baird RD, Loriot Y, Massard C, Martin-Romano P, Opdam F, Schlenk RF, Vernieri C, Masucci M, Villalobos X, Chavarria E, Balmaña J, Apolone G, Caldas C, Bergh J, Ernberg I, Fröhling S, Garralda E, Karlsson C, Tabernero J, Voest E, Rodon J, and Lehtiö J
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- 2022
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18. 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) is a pivotal endogenous ligand for TRPV1-mediated neurogenic inflammation in the skin.
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Hamers A, Primus CP, Whitear C, Kumar NA, Masucci M, Montalvo Moreira SA, Rathod K, Chen J, Bubb K, Colas R, Khambata RS, Dalli J, and Ahluwalia A
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- Animals, Arachidonic Acid chemistry, Arachidonic Acid metabolism, Blister, Cantharidin, Edema, Humans, Ligands, Lipopolysaccharides, Mice, Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acids metabolism, Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acids pharmacology, Neurogenic Inflammation chemically induced, Neurogenic Inflammation metabolism, TRPV Cation Channels metabolism
- Abstract
Background and Purpose: Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) is localized to sensory C-fibres and its opening leads to membrane depolarization, resulting in neuropeptide release and neurogenic inflammation. However, the identity of the endogenous activator of TRPV1 in this setting is unknown. The arachidonic acid metabolites 12-hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoyl acid (12-HpETE) and 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) have emerged as potential endogenous activators of TRPV1. However, whether these lipids underlie TRPV1-mediated neurogenic inflammation remains unknown., Experimental Approach: We analysed human cantharidin-induced blister samples and inflammatory responses in TRPV1 transgenic mice., Key Results: In a human cantharidin-blister model, the potent TRPV1 activators 20-HETE but not 12-HETE (stable metabolite of 12-HpETE) correlated with arachidonic acid levels. Similarly, in mice, levels of 20-HETE (but not 12-HETE) and arachidonic acid were strongly positively correlated within the inflammatory milieu. Furthermore, LPS-induced oedema formation and neutrophil recruitment were substantially and significantly attenuated by pharmacological block or genetic deletion of TRPV1 channels, inhibition of 20-HETE formation or SP receptor neurokinin 1 (NK
1 ) blockade. LPS treatment also increased cytochrome P450 ω-hydroxylase gene expression, the enzyme responsible for 20-HETE production., Conclusion and Implications: Taken together, our findings suggest that endogenously generated 20-HETE activates TRPV1 causing C-fibre activation and consequent oedema formation. These findings identify a novel pathway that may be useful in the therapeutics of diseases/conditions characterized by a prominent neurogenic inflammation, as in several skin diseases., (© 2021 The Authors. British Journal of Pharmacology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Pharmacological Society.)- Published
- 2022
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19. Tumour detection and outcomes of surveillance screening in SDHB and SDHD pathogenic variant carriers.
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White G, Velusamy A, Anandappa S, Masucci M, Breen LA, Joshi M, McGowan B, Hubbard JGH, Obholzer R, Christodoulou D, Jacques A, Touska P, Hassan FU, Izatt L, and Carroll PV
- Abstract
Objective: Succinate dehydrogenase subunit (SDHx) pathogenic variants predispose to phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL). Lifelong surveillance is recommended for all patients to enable prompt detection and treatment. There is currently limited evidence for optimal surveillance strategies in hereditary PPGL. We aim to detail the clinical presentation of PPGL in our cohort of non-index SDHB and SDHD pathogenic variant carriers., Methods: Retrospective analysis of medical and genetic records from a single tertiary referral centre identified SDHB or SDHD pathogenic variants in 74 non-index cases (56 SDHB and 18 SDHD). Surveillance screening for asymptomatic relatives consisted of annual plasma metanephrine measurement and whole-body MRI with contrast at 3-5 yearly intervals., Results: Twenty-three out of 74 non-index patients (10 SDHB and 13 SDHD) were diagnosed with PPGL, 17 patients through surveillance screening (24 tumours in total) and 6 diagnosed prior to commencement of cascade screening with symptomatic presentation. MRI with contrast identified PPGL in 22/24 screen-detected tumours and 5/24 tumours had elevated plasma metanephrine levels. Penetrance in non-index family members was 15.2 and 47.2% for SDHB carriers and 71.6 and 78.7% for SDHD carriers at age of 50 and 70 years, respectively., Conclusion: Surveillance screening with combined biochemical testing and imaging enables early detection of PPGL in asymptomatic relatives with SDHx pathogenic variants. The presence of disease at first screen was significant in our cohort and hence further multi-centre long-term data are needed to inform counselling of family members undergoing lifelong surveillance.
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- 2022
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20. The Molecular Tumor Board Portal supports clinical decisions and automated reporting for precision oncology.
- Author
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Tamborero D, Dienstmann R, Rachid MH, Boekel J, Lopez-Fernandez A, Jonsson M, Razzak A, Braña I, De Petris L, Yachnin J, Baird RD, Loriot Y, Massard C, Martin-Romano P, Opdam F, Schlenk RF, Vernieri C, Masucci M, Villalobos X, Chavarria E, Balmaña J, Apolone G, Caldas C, Bergh J, Ernberg I, Fröhling S, Garralda E, Karlsson C, Tabernero J, Voest E, Rodon J, and Lehtiö J
- Subjects
- High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing methods, Humans, Medical Oncology methods, Precision Medicine methods, Decision Support Systems, Clinical, Neoplasms diagnosis
- Abstract
There is a growing need for systems that efficiently support the work of medical teams at the precision-oncology point of care. Here, we present the implementation of the Molecular Tumor Board Portal (MTBP), an academic clinical decision support system developed under the umbrella of Cancer Core Europe that creates a unified legal, scientific and technological platform to share and harness next-generation sequencing data. Automating the interpretation and reporting of sequencing results decrease the need for time-consuming manual procedures that are prone to errors. The adoption of an expert-agreed process to systematically link tumor molecular profiles with clinical actions promotes consistent decision-making and structured data capture across the connected centers. The use of information-rich patient reports with interactive content facilitates collaborative discussion of complex cases during virtual molecular tumor board meetings. Overall, streamlined digital systems like the MTBP are crucial to better address the challenges brought by precision oncology and accelerate the use of emerging biomarkers., (© 2022. The Author(s).)
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
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21. Congenital hydrocephalus in three sheep: Clinical, electroencephalographic and pathological features.
- Author
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Masucci M, Capucchio MT, Buttitta R, Colombino E, and Mignacca SA
- Abstract
The clinical, electroencephalographic and neuro-pathological features of three cases (cases 1, 2 and 3) of congenital hydrocephalus in sheep were described. The observed neurological signs reflected damage in the telencephalon and brain stem. The electroencephalogram performed in case 1 and case 2 showed different patterns: symmetric and synchronous high-voltage slow-activity in case 1, and low-voltage slow-activity in case 2. By the post-mortem examination, in all the animals, dilatation of the ventricular system, especially of the lateral ventricles, associated with a glial reaction surrounding the dilated ventricles was observed. Only in case 3, a monolateral meningeal thickening at the left cerebellopontine angle seemed to be responsible for the obstructive hydrocephalus. In the other two brains (case 1 and 2), no potential anatomical cause for the hydrocephalus were detected, even if, in case 2, a compensatory form was not excluded due to the moderate hypoplasia of the cerebrum and the presence of the non-suppurative inflammation. The results of this work provide a contribution to the EEG characterisation in ovine hydrocephalus cases; nevertheless further multidisciplinary studies of a larger number of sheep could permit to better characterise the EEG pattern in ovine hydrocephalus cases., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright: © 2022 Masucci et al.)
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
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