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Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Acute Physiologic and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE), Sequential (sepsis-related) Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Simplified Acute Physiologic Score-2 (SAPS-2) are common predictive scoring systems in the intensive care unit (ICU) used all around the world to predict outcomes in general or specific population (eg. sepsis and septic shock). However, these scores were found to have mixed performance in several subgroups of critically ill patients. Purpose Few and conflicting data are available on patients admitted in the ICU after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) regarding these prognostic scores. We sought to evaluate the performance of these scores obtained on admission in predicting good neurological outcome at ICU discharge. Methods We enrolled 171 consecutive patients admitted to ICU at our center after being resuscitated from an OHCA from September 2017 to April 2021. APACHE, SOFA and SAPS-2 were available for 133 patients [77% male, mean age 60 (18-90) years, 54% with first shockable rhythm, median number of shocks delivered 1 (0-14), median value of adrenaline administered 3 mg (0-12), 26% received amiodarone, median cardiac arrest duration 38 min (IQR 22-74)]. Worst values collected during the first 24 hours were considered for APACHE and SAPS-2 calculations, whereas SOFA was assessed at 24 hours from admission. The median values of each one of the three scores of patients with and without good neurological outcome (cognitive performance category 1-2) at ICU discharge were compared with Mann-Whitney U-test. For each one of the scores the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was analysed and the corresponding area under the curve AUC with its 95%CI was calculated, with the endpoint of survival with good neurological outcome at ICU discharge. Results patients with good neurological outcome had lower values of APACHE [22 (IQR 19-25) vs 24 (IQR 21-28)(p=0.01], SOFA [9 (IQR 7-10) vs 10 (IQR 8-12)(p Conclusion SAPS-2 score discriminates survival with good neurological outcome at ICU discharge significantly better than APACHE and SOFA in patients resuscitated from an OHCA and admitted to the ICU. These results could help clinicians in identifying which patients yield a better prognosis after 24 hours of clinical observation in the ICU and could therefore be safely and rapidly discharged to the ward.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Since its proposal, Vasoactive Inotropic Score (VIS) was applied in different setting of acute critical care (e.g. pediatric population or post-cardiac surgery). It reflects the pharmacological support of the cardiovascular system and higher VIS values in the first 24 hours from ICU admission predict worse outcomes, both in pediatric and adult population. Few data are available regarding patients admitted for an Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA). The aim of this work is to investigate the prognostic role of VIS score in this population. Methods We enrolled 171 consecutive patients who were resuscitated after an OHCA and admitted to ICU at our center from September 2017 to April 2021. VIS score on admission was available for 144 patients. We divided the population in two groups (high vs low VIS score) according to VIS score median values. For every patient neurological outcome at discharge and survival at one year were available. Results Median VIS score was 10 so we considered low values ≤ 10 (group 1) and high values > 10 (group 2). There were 73 patients in low VIS group (Group 1) and 71 in high VIS group (Group 2). No differences were found in the two groups regarding sex (75% males vs 74%, p=0.88), age [64 (49-70) vs 61 (52-74), p=0.5], SAPS II score at admission [63.61 (53-70) vs 65.46 (61-86), p=0.54], shockable rhythm as first rhythm (60.2% vs 51.51%, p=0.3) and number of shocks delivered [median value 1 (0-13) vs 1 (0-14), p=0.84]. On the contrary, patients with lower VIS values had a shorter arrest duration [26 mins (19-40) vs 41 mins (27-74), p=0.0002] and less adrenaline delivered [2 mg (0-6) vs 3 mg (0 -12), p=0.0012]. Moreover, patients with lower VIS score values on admission showed a better neurological outcome (defined as a CPC < 2) at ICU discharge (44% vs 21%, p=0.08). In addition, patients in group 1 showed a lower mortality rate as compared to group 2 [60% (44/73) vs 76% (54/71),p=0.0048]. Conclusion in adult patients resuscitated from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and admitted to an ICU, lower values of VIS score were associated with higher survival at 1 year. Moreover patients with low VIS showed better neurological outcome at ICU discharge. This could be explained by the fact that VIS express the need for cardiovascular support and is lower in patients with a more stable hemodynamic status after OHCA, reflecting a less compromised clinical condition.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Global hypoperfusion causes tissue hypoxia, resulting in overproduction of lactate because of impaired mitochondrial oxidation, causing lactic acidosis (LA). Base excess (BE) is defined as the amount of acid or base required to return the pH to 7.4 in the setting of a normal Paco2 and is therefore related to the degree of acid production following injury. Purpose Our hypothesis was that lactate levels, BE levels and occurrence of LA on admission could help in early risk stratification in patients admitted to the ICU after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Methods we enrolled 171 consecutive patients resuscitated from an OHCA and admitted to ICU at our center from September 2017 to April 2021. Blood gas analysis on admission was available for 140 patients [77%male, mean age 60 (18-90) years, 54% with first shockable rhythm, median number of shocks delivered 1 (0-14), median dose of adrenaline administered 3 mg (0-12), 26% received amiodarone, median cardiac arrest duration 38 min (IQR 22-74 min)]. Patients with low lactate levels were compared with patients with high lactate levels (cutoff 2 mmol/l as per standard practice), patients with low BE levels were compared with patients with high BE levels (cutoff -8.5 mmol/l, median value) and patients with LA were compared with patients without LA (defined as pH 2mmol/). Survival with good neurological outcome (CPC 1-2) at ICU discharge and 30-day survival were investigated for each group with chi-squared test. Then, one-year survival was investigated for each group with Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results Patients with low BE (< -8.5 mmol/l) had a significantly lower survival with good neurological outcome at ICU discharge (p=0.0017), lower survival at 30 days (p < 0.0001) and 365 days (p - 8.5 mmol/l). Low lactate levels (< 2 mmol/L) were associated with higher survival with good neurological outcome at ICU discharge (p< 0.0001), higher survival at 30 days (p < 0.0001) and 365 days (p = 0.0002) compared to higher lactate levels (> 2 mmol/l). The occurrence of LA on admission was significantly associated with lower survival with good neurological outcome at ICU discharge (p=0.001), lower 30-days survival (p=0.001) and 365-days survival (p Conclusion high blood lactate levels, low base excess and lactic acidosis predict short-term and long-term survival in patients admitted to the ICU after an OHCA. These results could help clinician in the identification of populations with different risk profile with the first blood gas analysis obtained at ICU admission.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Backround Regional and general hypoperfusion cause hypoxia, resulting in excess production of lactate secondary to reduced mitochondrial oxidation. Peripheral perfusion index (PI) is the fraction of the pulsatile blood flow to the non-pulsatile blood in peripheral tissue obtained by standard pulse-oximetry. Recent literature has highlighted its association with both survival and ECG reliability in patients resuscitated from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Purpose We raised the hypothesis that the mean value of PI over 30-minutes monitoring (MPI30) after ROSC in patients resuscitated from an OHCA is associated with the probability of detecting a lactic acidosis (LA) at the first arterial blood gas analysis available after ICU admission. Materials and Methods This was a retrospective study, obtaining data from our cardiac arrest registry. Among 172 post-ROSC patients admitted to the ICU (between 1st January 2017 and May 2021) post-ROSC MPI30 was available in 76 patients: 54 (72%) males; median age 70 years (IQR 59-77). PI was automatically and continuously measured by the manual monitor/defibrillator (Corpuls by GS Elektromedizinische Geräte G. Stemple GmbH, Germany) once the pulse oximeter was placed, then registered in the report. The population was divided in quartiles according to MPI30 values, then the incidence along the quartiles were compared with chi-squared test. The association between MPI30 and LA incidence was investigated both with univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results LA was documented in 57% of the study population. We found a significant trend toward reduction of incidence of LA along the four quartiles (p=0.0386). Univariate logistic regression showed a statistically significant association between MPI30 and LA on admission [OR 0.62 (95%CI 0.44-0.89), p=0.005] which was confirmed after correction for age and sex [OR 0.63 (95%CI 0.43-0.91), p=0.009]. Conclusions Low perfusion as measured by MPI30 after ROSC predicts a higher incidence of lactic acidosis in patients on admission to the ICU. Our results could help clinicians in identifying patients at risk for metabolic derangements even before a blood gas analysis is obtained.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction The optimal energy level for shock in biphasic waveform defibrillation represents a significant knowledge gap. Different energy regimens have been trialed; however, a selection criterion which may help in adopting one approach over another has never been identified. Choosing the maximum energy may be an option but current-induced myocardial damage should not be neglected and an effort to tailor energy delivery is desirable. Purpose To assess whether amplitude spectral area (AMSA) of VF can guide the dose-regimens of defibrillation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients. Methods This is a multicenter study based on the data from some of the largest OHCA registers in Europe, which enrolled 830 OHCA patients who received at least one shock during advanced resuscitation. AMSA values were calculated by retrospectively analyzing the data collected by the Corpuls 3 and LIFEPAK 12/15 monitors/defibrillators and by using a 2-second-pre-shock ECG interval. Results Among 830 OHCAs, 2135 shocks were delivered from a minimum energy level of 150 J to a maximum of 360 J. The AMSA values of efficacious shocks delivered at 150 J were higher compared to those of efficacious shock at 360 J [13.1 (IQR 10.2-17.1) vs 11.8 (IQR 8.3-15.2) HzxmV; p Conclusion This is the first study to identify a datapoint to guide decision-making with regards to defibrillation with lower energy levels. AMSA could indeed guide the selection of energy levels in order to optimize efficaciousness in restoring a perfusing rhythm while minimizing the contribution to myocardial dysfunction.

Introduction In case of cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation (VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT), the optimal energy level for defibrillation is that which achieves defibrillation and minimize the current–induced myocardial damage. Therefore, it would be reasonable to reduce the energy level as well as the number of shocks. ECG–based VF waveform analysis features such as amplitude spectral area (AMSA) have been recently introduced as predictors of shock success but their predictivity for shock success with low energy level is not known. We aimed to assess whether AMSA of VF is able to predict the efficacy of low energy level for defibrillation in out–of–hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients. Methods All the OHCAs with at least one shockable rhythm occurred from January 2015 to December 2020 in the province of Pavia, Italy, were considered. AMSA values were calculated by retrospectively analyzing the data collected by the Corpuls 3 monitors/defibrillators and by using a 2–second–pre–shock ECG interval. Results Among 4619 OHCA, AMSA values and energy for defibrillation were documented in 791 shocks, of which 45% received a shock at low energy (150J). The rate of efficacy between the two groups did not differ significantly (44% vs 38%, p=0.102), however in patients efficaciously treated with low energy, AMSA was higher compared to those efficaciously treated with high energy [13.2 mV·Hz (12.5–14.2) vs 10.8 (10.1–11.5), p Conclusion Amplitude spectral area of VF is a predictor of shock success at low energy. This could be useful to optimize the choice of energy limiting the current related myocardial injury.

Introduction Ventricular fibrillation (VF) Amplitude Spectral Area (AMSA) is a well-established predictor of successful defibrillation and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Attending to the limited evidence on the topic, gender seems to affect AMSA, and higher values have been reported in females. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of gender in AMSA values for patients suffering out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Methods We enrolled 4619 consecutive OHCA patients from January 2015 to December 2020 in the LombardiaCare Registry. We considered only those subjects with attempted cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (697 patients) and at least one shock delivered. A total of 250 patients were considered (40 F/ 210 M) with 830 shocks (100 F/ 730 M). AMSA values were computed for the ventricular fibrillation in the 2-s pre-shock interval of the ECG recorded by the Corpuls3 defibrillator (Corpuls, Kaufering, Germany). Results Female patients were older than male [median (IQR): 70.5 (62–72) vs 67 (55–75) years, p=0.01], with cardiac arrest more frequently at home (84% vs 76%, p=0.003), fewer shocks [2 (1–4) vs 4 (2–7), p=0.004] and higher percentage of success (53% vs 40%, p=0.009). On the contrary, cardiac arrest duration [ 58.7 (31–69) vs 57.6 (41.4–77.3) min, p=0.366] and the rate of ROSC (32% vs 33%, p=0.88) were similar in both groups. Higher AMSA values were found in female patients [10.3 Hz-mV (6.6–13.5) vs 7.9 Hz-mV (5.2–12.1), p=0.0007]. At a multivariable analysis, after correction for witnessed status, bystanders CPR, amiodarone administration, age and call-to shock time, male sex was found to be independently associated with the probability of having low values of AMSA, below the median value of 8.3 Hz-mV [OR 2.15 (95% CI1.35–3.43), p=0.001]. Despite gender stratification ROC curve analysis confirmed AMSA as a predictor of shock success [AUC-F: 0.75 (95% CI 0.65–0.83), p Conclusion Female sex is related to higher AMSA values. As AMSA reflects the energetical status and the ATP levels in the myocardial cells during cardiac arrest, this difference may be due to lower incidence and lower severity of cardiac ischemic disease in women. AMSA remains a valid predictor of both shock success and ROSC for female and male patients. Further investigations are needed to support and comprehend these conclusions. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Background Brugada Syndrome (BrS) is an inherited disorder associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and is diagnosed by the presence of a Brugada type I ECG pattern, either spontaneous or drug-induced. A spontaneous ECG pattern is one of the two main risk factors for SCD, along with syncope. However, there is still no clear evidence on how and how often to screen patients with drug-induced BrS to detect a spontaneous ECG pattern, therefore allowing to reassess their arrhythmic risk. Purpose To determine how many subjects develop a spontaneous ECG pattern among a pool of patients with low risk BrS (drug-induced pattern without history of syncope at the time of diagnosis) observed through systematic ECG Holter monitoring. Methods We retrospectively collected data for all patients with low risk BrS treated at our center for at least 12 months between 2016 and 2021. Each patient was tested yearly with at least one 12-lead 24-hour ECG Holter monitoring with high precordial leads (V1-V2, V3-V4, V5-V6 respectively in 2nd, 3rd and 4th intercostal space parasternal left and right). In case of spontaneous pattern detection at two recordings, patients underwent electrophysiological study (EPS) and in case of inducible ventricular arrhythmias, implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) placement. Results We included 63 patients with low risk BrS. During a median follow-up of 48 months: 1 patient died for SCD (1.6%), 1 experienced syncope (1.6%) and 19 exhibited a spontaneous ECG pattern (30.2%). Of these 19 patients: 18 were males and 5 had a mutation of SCN5A; the average age at the time of spontaneous pattern detection was 48.1±11.5 years. The average number of ECG holters/per patient/per year was 1.1±0.6, the average number of ECG Holters until the detection of a spontaneous pattern was 3.3±1.8, whilst the average number of months in between the diagnosis and the detection of a spontaneous pattern was 43.2±41.1. After the observation of a spontaneous pattern: 6 patients were excluded from further investigation (as they had already undergone EPS or refused), 1 was directly treated with ICD and 12 underwent EPS, 4 of whom consequently underwent ICD placement. Among these 5 patients who underwent ICD placement – 7.9% of the original 63 patients – we observed 1 appropriate ICD intervention (antitachycardia pacing), 1 inappropriate ICD shock and 1 ICD related complication. Conclusions In our population of patients with low risk BrS the detection of a spontaneous ECG pattern is the most common determinant of risk reclassification. Systematic ECG Holter monitoring disclosed the presence of a spontaneous ECG pattern in a relevant number of subjects, allowing to reassess their arrhythmic risk and indication for ICD placement. Our study stresses the importance of periodic evaluation of low risk BrS patients with ECG Holter monitoring and the need for further investigation to define the optimal monitoring strategy. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Background The use of antiarrhythmic drug therapy is usually recommended in addition to defibrillation in shockable cardiac arrest. The role of the amplitude spectral area (AMSA) of ventricular fibrillation as a predictor of defibrillation efficacy has been established, but little is known about how amiodarone could affect AMSA values. Purpose The aim of our study was to evaluate whether the administration of amiodarone during resuscitation could affect AMSA and to verify if AMSA preserves its predictive role of shock success in OHCA patients treated with amiodarone. Material All the OHCAs with an attempted resuscitation and at least one shockable rhythm which occurred from January 2015 to December 2020 in the province of Pavia were considered. AMSA values were calculated by retrospectively analyzing the data collected by the Corpuls 3 monitors/defibrillators (Corpuls, Kaufering, Germany) used in the field and by considering a pre-shock interval of 2 seconds. Results Of 4619 OHCAs, 697 underwent attempted CPR with at least one shock delivered. Of these, AMSA was available on 250 patients (male 84%, median age 67 years), for a total of 830 shocks, of which 534 (64%) shocks were in patients receiving amiodarone. The success rate of each single shock was similar in the two groups (amiodarone 42% vs no amiodarone 41%, p=0.68). The AMSA median values were significantly lower in the amiodarone group as compared to the non-amiodarone group when shocks were delivered to patients older than 67 years old [median difference: 1.55 mV Hz (95% CI 0.6–2.5), p=0.0013] or receiving bystander CPR [median difference 0.9 mV Hz (95% CI 0.1–1.8), p=0.03] or after more than 33 minutes from the emergency call to each single shock [median difference: 0.91 mV Hz (95% CI 1.9–0.01), p=0.047]. AMSA value lower than the median (8.3 Hz mV) was associated with a lower probability of shock success (19% vs 64%, p Conclusions Amiodarone administration is independently associated with lower values of AMSA. This could justify the lack of benefit from amiodarone administration in term of defibrillation success which would be expected by the administration of an antiarrhythmic drug during the resuscitation. Moreover, AMSA maintains its predictive value for shock success and ROSC rate in patients receiving amiodarone as well as in the general population. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Background The autonomic system plays a pivotal role in ventricular arrhythmogenesis. Percutaneous stellate ganglion block (PSGB) is a technique known since many years for analgesic purposes, which has recently proven its antiarrhythmic effect suitable for an emergency setting. However, evidences are limited and heterogeneous. Purpose To assess the efficacy and safety of PSGB performed with an anterior paratracheal approach using anatomical landmarks in consecutive patients with electrical storm refractory to conventional treatment. Methods Patients with electrical storm were consecutively enrolled from November 2017 to January 2022. Left PSGB (PLSGB) was performed after failure of at least one intravenous antiarrhythmic drug. Its repetition or a continuous infusion of the local anaesthetic were considered in selected cases. Clinical data, the characteristics of the block and the occurrence of complications were collected. The efficacy was evaluated by comparing the number of arrhythmias treated with ATP or DC-shocks by external or internal defibrillator in the hour before the block with that in the hour after the procedure. Per-patient efficacy was assessed by comparing the number of ATP/shocks in the 24 hours before the procedure with that in the 24 hours after the last procedure. Results 28 patients were enrolled: 78% male, mean age 65.4±14.2 years; 9 with dilated cardiomyopathy, 8 with chronic ischemic heart disease, 7 with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, 2 with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction, 1 with arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia and 1 with drug intoxication; the average ejection fraction was 24.2±15%. A total of 44 PLSGBs were performed: 18 for ventricular tachycardia (VT), 11 for ventricular fibrillation (VF) and 15 for both VT and VF episodes; 7 on intubated patients, 3 in extracorporeal circulation, 7 in cardiogenic/septic shock, 22 on patients on single antiplatelet therapy, 7 on dual antiplatelet therapy, 25 on anticoagulant therapy. PLSGBs were performed during intravenous infusion of antiarrhythmics (amiodarone in 24, lidocaine in 27 procedures). The local anaesthetic used was lidocaine 200 mg in 16/44 PLSGB, bupivacaine 50 mg in 4/44 and both in 24/44. The per-procedure analysis showed a significant reduction of the number of ATP/shocks in the hour after PLSGB compared with the hour before [0 (0–0) vs 5 (1–8) p Conclusions This is the largest case series so far in which PLSGB has proven to be highly effective and safe in the treatment of challenging patients with refractory electrical storm. Its safety and the exiguity of the equipment required for the anatomical approach make PLSGB a technique that can be easily performed by cardiologists at the bedside. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction In case of cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation (VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT), the optimal energy should be the lowest energy effective to achieve defibrillation minimizing the current-induced myocardial damage. Therefore, it would be ideal to minimize the energy level as well as the number of shocks during resuscitation. ECG-based VF waveform analysis features such as amplitude spectral area have been recently introduced as predictors of shock success, but their predictivity for shock success with low energy level is not known. Purpose To assess whether amplitude spectral area (AMSA) of VF is able to predict the efficacy of low energy level defibrillation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients. Methods All the OHCAs with at least one shockable rhythm that occurred from January 2015 to December 2020 were considered. AMSA values were calculated by retrospectively analyzing the data collected by the Corpuls 3 monitors/defibrillators and by using a 2-second-pre-shock ECG interval. Results Among 4619 OHCAs, resuscitation was attempted in 2982 (64%) and at least one shock was delivered in 697 (15%). AMSA values and defibrillation energy were available for 791 shocks, of which 45% received shock at low energy (>150J) and 55% at high energy (>150J). The rate of efficacy between the two groups was similar (44% vs 38%, p=0.102). However, in patients efficaciously treated with shock at low energy, AMSA was higher compared to those treated with shock at high energy [13.2 mV Hz (IQR 10.2–17) vs 10.8 mV Hz (IQR 8–13.8), p Conclusion Ventricular fibrillation amplitude spectral area is a predictor of shock success at a low energy level. This could be useful to optimize both time and dose-energy to patients, yielding the highest chance for successful defibrillation while reducing the number of futile shocks and thus limiting the total current myocardial energy as well as CPR interruptions. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction Few studies evaluated risk factors for primary ventricular fibrillation (VF) before reperfusion during a first acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Important parameters such as kalemia, blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) at presentation were rarely considered. Furthermore, potential differences according to the time elapsed between symptoms onset and VF onset have never been investigated. Objectives to evaluate predictors of primary VF in the PREDESTINATION (PRImary vEntricular fibrillation and suDden dEath during a firST myocardIal iNfArcTION) study cohort also differentiating between early (60 min) VF. Early VF is more likely to cause sudden death (SD) before medical services arrival. Patients and Methods PREDESTINATION is a prospective, multicenter, case–control (1:2 age– and sex–matched) study enrolling patients aged 18–80 years with a first AMI, either complicated (cases) or not (controls) by primary VF before reperfusion. Results 1478 patients were analysed: mean age was 59 years, 83% were male, 36% cases. The multivariate analysis (logistic regression) on the whole population (c–statistic= 0.74) identified 8 independent predictors of primary VF: atrial fibrillation as presenting rhythm (OR 4.61), kalemia ≤3.5 mEq/L (OR 2.8), HR at presentation ≥90 bpm (OR 2.25), first–degree family history of SD (OR 2.08), anterior infarct site (OR 1.54), physical inactivity (OR 1.59), systolic BP at presentation (OR 0.98 for each mmHg), and first–degree family history of coronary artery disease/myocardial infarction (OR 0.71). The time elapsed between symptoms onset and VF was known for 405 cases (184 early and 221 late VF). There were 6 predictors of early VF, with loss of significance of physical inactivity and of family history of coronary artery disease/infarction, and an increase in the OR of family history of SD to 2.85 (95% CI: 1.6–5.08), and in the c–statistic of the model to 0.80. Among the 6 predictors of late VF, on the other hand, anterior site of AMI and family history of SD were not confirmed (c–statistic of the model 0.7). Conclusions The present study identified 8 independent predictors of primary VF. First–degree family history of SD is a powerful independent predictor of early VF, but not of late VF, suggesting that genetic predisposition plays a determining role only in early–onset VF cases and therefore the advisability of a specific genetic investigation in these patients.

Background Cardiac Sympathetic Denervation (CSD) has been recently proposed for the treatment of refractory ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) in patients with cardiomyopathy (CMP). Long–term outcome and predictors of recurrences after the procedure are still poorly defined. Aim: To describe our multicenter Italian experience with CSD in CMP patients with refractory VAs. Methods 32 patients with CMP and refractory VAs underwent either left CSD (n=4) or BCSD (n=28). All patients had a Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery, in 8 cases with the robotic technique. The main reason (3/4 cases, 75%) to perform LCSD instead of BCSD was sinus bradycardia in single ICD lead recipients. Results 84% of patients were male, mean age was 55 ± 16 yrs and mean LVEF was 32± 12%; most (n=26, 81%) had non–ischemic CMP (including 3 with hypertrophic CMP and 2 with cardiolaminopathy) and 34% were in NYHA class ≥3. Main indications for CSD were refractory polymorphic/fast VAs (>200 bpm) in 56% of pts and refractory monomorphic VAs in the rest. Except for 5 patients (15%) with previous thyrotoxicosis, the majority were either on amiodarone (n=20, 63%) or on sotalol (n=3, 9%) and 53% had previously undergone ≥1 catheter ablation for VAs. The median follow–up (FU) after CSD was 16 months (IQR 5–45 months). No major complications occurred. Eleven patients (34%) either died during FU (n=8, 25%), mostly due to end–stage heart failure, or underwent heart transplant (n=3, 9%). After CSD, the percentage of patients with ES decreased from 78% to 40% (p Conclusions Our case series of CSD in CMP represents the largest reported in Europe and the one with the longest follow–up. The occurrence of electrical storms was almost halved by CSD, and most patients had a reduction in ICD shocks at 6 months larger than 75%. Patients with better functional class, better LVEF and faster VAs benefited more from CSD, suggesting the opportunity of an earlier referral of these patients.

Background Neuromodulation by percutaneous stellate ganglion block (PSGB) with local anaesthetic has proved its antiarrhythmic effect suitable for an emergency setting. Purpose To assess the efficacy and safety of PSGB performed with an anterior anatomical approach in patients with refractory electrical storm refractory. Methods Patients with electrical storm at the Policlinico S.Matteo of Pavia were enrolled from November 2017 to January 2022. Left PSGB (PLSGB) was performed after failure of at least one intravenous antiarrhythmic drug. Its repetition or a continuous infusion of the local anaesthetic were considered in selected cases. Clinical data, characteristics of the block and complications were collected. The efficacy was evaluated by comparing the number of arrhythmias treated with ATP or DC–shocks by external or internal defibrillator 1 hour before the block with 1 hour after the block. Per–patient efficacy was assessed by comparing the number of ATP/shocks in the 12 hours before the first procedure with that in the 12 hours after the last one. Results 37 patients were enrolled: 76% male, mean age 65 years; 11 with dilated cardiomyopathy, 18 with chronic ischemic heart disease, 11 with STEMI, 3 with NSTEMI, 1 with ARVC and 1 with drug intoxication. A total of 62 PLSGBs were performed: 19 for VT, 26 for VF and 17 for both VT and VF episodes; 15 on intubated patients, 4 in extracorporeal circulation, 7 in cardiogenic/septic shock, 28 on patients on single antiplatelet therapy, 11 on dual antiplatelet therapy, 33 on anticoagulant therapy. PLSGBs were performed during intravenous infusion of antiarrhythmics (amiodarone in 30, lidocaine in 37 procedures). The local anaesthetic used was lidocaine in 27/62 PLSGB, bupivacaine in 6/62 and both in 29/62. The per–procedure analysis showed a significant reduction of the number of ATP/shocks in the hour after PLSGB compared with the hour before [0 (0–0) vs 5 (1–8) p Conclusions This is the case series with the highest number of PLSGB for antiarrhythmic purposes in literature and it confirms its efficacy and safety in refractory electrical storm. The exiguity of the equipment required makes the anatomical approach suitable to be easily performed by cardiologists.

Kounis syndrome (KS) is defined as an acute coronary syndrome (SCA) associated with an anaphylactic reaction. A 64–year–old sports man with no previous cardiovascular disease arrived at the emergency room of our Hospital for dyspnoea and chest pain arising during physical activity e preceded by a syncopal episode. During the physical activity (cycling) the patient reported that he had felt an insect bite sensation, with no possibility of precisely identify it. Parameters an admission were: BP 85/45 mmHg, HR 70 bpm, on ECG signs of early repolarization (Fig. 1), blood tests rise in hsTNI (328 ng/L), normal D–dimer. The transthoracic echocardiogram showed no motion abnormalities. In the suspicion of KS, therapy was set up only with ASA and statin, avoiding any drug commonly used to treat allergic reactions that could have worsen the hemodynamic and vasomotor situation by further reducing the coronary perfusion. During hospitalization, in consideration of the clinical picture and cardiovascular risk factors (dyslipidemia and previous smoking), was performed coronary angiography, which showed no obstructive lesions, but during the first injection of contrast showed vasospasm of the ostium of the right coronary artery, dominant (Fig. 2 – left), resolved spontaneously (Fig. 2 – right). The post–procedural hsTNI peak (3953 ng/L) and the presence of the European paper wasp i77 antigen to the serological dosage of the allergens supported the pathophysiology of acute coronary syndrome concomitant with allergic reaction and supported the diagnostic hypothesis of KS type I (without underlying coronary artery disease). The patient was discharged with calcium channel blocker therapy, to reduce coronary vasospasm which characterizes KS, and short–term follow–up was planned with blood tests, exercise stress test and cardiological visit which were normal. KS, though rare, is a clinical entity that should not be underestimated, especially in allergic patients with evidence of SCA without coronary occlusions. The data available in the literature are scarce and it is not clear the medium and long term prognosis. It therefore seems reasonable to follow up the patients as outpatient cardiology visits especially in the first months after the event and schedule instrumental tests control.

Study question Could Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) detected in human spermatozoa represent a predictive marker of fertilization ability? Summary answer ROS detected by CellROX® Orange probe is related to a better sperm quality and function, indicating the sensitivity of the probe to identify physiological ROS. What is known already Oxidative stress (OS), defined as an unbalance between ROS production and antioxidant defenses, is one of the causes of male infertility. A small amount of ROS is necessary for the physiological sperm function, however high ROS levels could impair fertility potential inducing damages at membrane, protein and DNA levels. Previous studies performed by using different methods and probes for OS evaluation in semen or in spermatozoa highlighted the negative role of ROS on sperm functions. However, such studies were not conclusive because of the small number of included subjects and of high variability in the cohorts. Study design, size, duration Observational study conducted on 73 male partners of infertile couples attended consecutively to the Andrology Laboratory of Careggi University Hospital of Florence from September to December 2021. Analyses were performed on both washed and Swim-up selected spermatozoa. Participants/materials, setting, methods After routine semen analysis, washed and Swim-up selected spermatozoa were incubated with CellRox®Orange (a fluorescent probe able to reveal OS in viable cells), at the concentration of 1 µM for 30 minutes at 37°C, 5%CO2, and revealed by flow cytometry. Sperm DNA fragmentation (by TUNEL/PI method), sperm kinematic parameters and hyperactivated motility (by C.A.S.A. system) were also assessed. In some samples a double staining with CellRox®Orange and Annexin V (which stains phosphatidylserine externalization) was performed. Main results and the role of chance We found that the percentage of spermatozoa positive to CellRox® Orange is positively correlated with routine seminal parameters. Although this result appears in contrast with most studies in literature reporting negative correlations between OS and semen parameters, it can be explained by the fact that the probe is specific for viable spermatozoa characterized by a better motility and morphology. Considering the importance of distinguishing between positive and negative ROS in spermatozoa, we further investigated the significance of ROS detected by this probe. To understand whether the probe marks spermatozoa with a better quality, CellRox® Orange positivity was evaluated in Swim-up selected spermatozoa finding significantly higher levels of CellRox® Orange positivity respect to unselected samples. Furthermore, the fact that most of the CellRox® Orange positive spermatozoa were negative for Annexin V (which reveals cells with early signs of apoptosis) is a further confirmation of the good quality of CellRox® Orange positive spermatozoa. Another evidence is represented by the finding that we observed a negative correlation between OS detected by CellRox® Orange and sperm DNA fragmentation, although several studies have shown a positive relationship between these two parameters (when OS is measured by different probes). Limitations, reasons for caution Up to now, the study involved a limited number of subjects. Further experiments should be performed to increase the number of subjects in order to confirm the results. Wider implications of the findings Results of this study together with those previously published evidence that different OS is detected depending on which probe is used. CellRox® Orange seems to be sensible for physiological ROS detection, therefore, it could be employed in future studies aimed to evaluate the association between OS and assisted reproduction outcomes. Trial registration number not applicable

Background The presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in human semen and its role in virus contagion and semen quality after recovery from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still unclear. Recent reports evidence that, after SARS-CoV-2 infection, male reproductive function and semen quality may be damaged. Aim To evaluate the semen parameters and inflammation of sexually active men following recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection at 1 month and 3 months follow-up after the second negative nasopharyngeal swab. Materials and methods A prospective cross-sectional study on sexually active men recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection was performed. For previously hospitalized COVID-19 patients, data on serum inflammatory markers were retrospectively collected. One month after the second SARS-CoV-2 negative nasopharyngeal swab and 3 months later, four biological fluid samples, namely saliva, pre-ejaculation urine, semen, and post-ejaculation urine, were collected. The occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the specimen was evaluated in all the biological fluids collected by RT-PCR. Female partners were retested if any specimen was found to be SARS-CoV-2 positive. Semen parameters were evaluated according to the World Health Organization manual edition V. Furthermore, semen inflammation was assessed by quantification of semen leukocytes and interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels and evaluation of a panel of sperm cytokine levels by a two-step ELISA method. Results A total of 43 men were enrolled in the study. Three patients (7%) tested positive for at least one sample (one saliva; one pre-ejaculation urine; one semen and one post-ejaculation urine), so the next day new nasopharyngeal swabs were collected. The results from these 3 patients and their partners were all negative for SARS-CoV-2. At 1-month follow-up, 25% of the men with recent SARS-Cov-2 infections and proven healing were oligo-cryptoazoospermic, despite the absence of virus RNA in semen. Of the 11 men with semen impairment, 8 were azoospermic and 3 were oligospermic. Serum inflammatory markers (procalcitonin and C-reactive protein) were analyzed in previously hospitalized patients both at admission and at peak of infection. Levels at admission were statistically significantly higher in patients resulting in crypto-azoospermic with respect to those resulting in normozoospermic (p = 0.05; p = 0.03 and p = 0.02, respectively) after healing. Oligo-crypto-azoospermia was significantly related to COVID-19 severity (P A total of 33 patients (76.7%) showed pathological levels of IL-8 in semen. Interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α levels were significantly negatively related to sperm total number and concentration, whereas interleukin-4 was correlated with sperm motility. At 3-months follow-up, 8/10 men with semen impairment showed an overall increase of semen parameters compared to levels assessed after 1 month. Of the 4 crypto-/azoo-spermic men 1 month after healing, 2 resulted oligozoospermic, 1 normozoospermic and only 1 remained azoospermic. Two of the 3 oligozoospermic men turned normozoozpermic. Semen cytokine levels remained elevated after 3 months, except for IL-6. Discussion and conclusion SARS-CoV-2 can be detected in saliva, urine, and semen in a small percentage of men who recovered from COVID-19. 25% of men who recovered from COVID-19 demonstrated oligo-crypto-azoospermia. Negative correlations between interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α and sperm number and the overall high levels of semen cytokines indicate a potential detrimental role of SARS-CoV-2 driven inflammation on spermatogenesis. An overall tendency to an improvement of semen parameters was found although a genital tract inflammatory condition appears to persist at least 3 months after COVID-19 recovery. Despite the low number of enrolled patients may limit the statistical power of study and the fact that the previous semen quality of these men was unknown, our results indicate that male of reproductive age recovering from COVID-19 deserve accurate follow-up for their fertility status.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Clinical presentation and outcome of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) presenting with shockable rhythm may vary between males and females. Very limited data exist on gender-related differences in OHCAs with refractory ventricular arrhythmias (VA) and, in particular, on distribution and prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD). Purpose The aim of this study was to characterize gender-related outcome, prevalence and severity of CAD in OHCA victims presenting with shockable rhythm and refractory VA. Methods All OHCAs presenting with shockable rhythm occurred between 2015 and 2019 in the province of Pavia (Italy) and in the Canton Ticino (Switzerland) were included. Results Out of 3592 OHCAs, 685 presented with shockable rhythm and, of them, 212 had a refractory VA. Overall, male gender was independently associated with a lower probability of survival both at hospital admission and at 30-days (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.58-0.67, p Conclusions Male gender is more frequently associated with refractory VA, lower probability of survival and higher prevalence and severity of CAD. CAD severity, however, does not significantly affect refractory VA presentation.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Sudden cardiac death is a major issue in industrialised countries and survival of patients who suffered from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) remains awfully low. An acute myocardial infarction is the principal cause of OHCA and myocardial revascularisation plays a positive role in survival. In this particular setting little is known about the role of complete versus culprit-only revascularisation on survival. Purpose The aim of the present study was to assess whether a complete revascularisation could lead to a better one-year survival as compared to culprit-only revascularisation. Methods All the patients prospectively enrolled in the OHCA registry of the Lombardy region (Lombardia CARe) from January 1, 2015 to May 1, 2021 in the province of Pavia who underwent a coronary angiography at our Polyclinic were enrolled in the study. All the coronary angiographies were retrospectively reviewed by two interventional cardiologists and angiographic features were inserted in the database. Prehospital data and survival were retrieved from the registry according to the Utstein style. Results We enrolled 239 patients [mean age 63.7±12.4 years; male 79.9%; presenting shockable rhythm 84.1%; acute myocardial infarction at post ROSC ECG 67.9%; ejection fraction 37% (30-45), circulatory support with ECMO 10.9%]. Among the 119 (50%) patients with a multi-vessel disease 82 (69%) received an incomplete revascularisation whereas 37 (31%) were completely revascularised [8 during the first procedure, 29 in a second procedure with a median time after OHCA of 5 (2.5-10) days]. This latter group showed a significantly higher one-year survival (54.9% vs 16.2%, p Conclusions A complete revascularisation is independently associated with a better one-year survival in patients resuscitated from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Background Sudden cardiac death is a major issue in industrialised countries and survival of patients after out–of–hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) remains low. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the principal cause of OHCA and myocardial revascularisation plays a positive role on survival. In this setting little is known about the role of complete (CR) versus culprit–only revascularisation (IR) on survival. Purpose The aim of this study was to assess whether CR could lead to a better one–year survival as compared to IR. Methods. Among patients prospectively enrolled in the Lombardia CARe OHCA registry from January 1 2015 to May 1 2021, who underwent a coronary angiography (CAG) at the Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo were enrolled in this study. CAGs were retrospectively reviewed by two interventional cardiologists. Prehospital and survival data were retrieved from the registry. Results We enrolled 239 patients [mean age 63.7±12.4 years; male 79.9%; shockable presenting rhythm 84.1%; AMI at post ROSC ECG 67.9%; ejection fraction 37% (30–45), circulatory support with ECMO 10.9%]. Among the 119 (50%) patients with multi–vessel disease, 82 (69%) received IR whereas 37 (31%) received CR [8 during the first procedure, 29 in a second procedure with a median time after OHCA of 5 (2.5–10) days]. This latter group showed significantly higher one–year survival (54.9% vs 16.2%, p Conclusions Complete revascularisation is independently associated with a better one–year survival in patients resuscitated from an out–of–hospital cardiac arrest.

Introduction Cardiac arrests in sports can involve professional athletes, amateurs, but also spectators of sports competitions. Sports facilities are the only ones for which the current law provides for the presence of an automatic external defibrillator (AED) and trained personnel, unlike other public places (schools, work, street, station, general public buildings) where it is only recommended. Objective To compare patient characteristics, presentation rhythm, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), AED use before emergency medical services (EMS) arrival, and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) longer than 30 seconds in the Utstein category of out–of–hospital cardiac arrests (OHCAs) in sports compared to events in other public places. Materials and Methods We considered all the OHCAs occurred from 01/01/2015 to 31/12/2020 in the provinces of Pavia, Lodi, Cremona, Mantua and Varese (2400000 inhabitants), excluding the OHCAs occurred at home, in long–term care facilities and witnessed by the EMS. Results During the study period, 22 OHCAs occurred in sports and 552 in other public places (school, work, street, station, public buildings). The age is similar in the two groups [sport 59 years (IQR 53.5–66.7) vs other 63 years (IQR 51–75), p = 0.2]. In sports, there is a trend in favor of shockable rhythms (13/22=59% vs 185/552=33%, p = 0.1). The percentage of CPR performed by bystanders in sports is significantly higher than in other public places (20/22=91% vs 299/552=54%, p = 0.003), as the bystander AED use (11/22=50% vs 64/552=12%, p Conclusions During sports competitions there is a greater ability to intervene in case of cardiac arrest, which determines a higher probability of obtaining ROSC, although in terms of age or presentation rhythm the patients are comparable to OHCA victims in other places public. These results suggest the need for an AED and trained personnel in other public places as well.

Background Once the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after an out–of–hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is achieved in patients with an ST–elevation myocardial infarction, the acquisition of a 12–lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is strongly recommended in order to determine candidates for urgent coronary angiography. However, little is known so far about the association of ECG features and survival to hospital discharge in OHCA patients. Methods We analysed all the post–ROSC ECGs collected from January 2015 to December 2018 in three European centres (Pavia, Lugano and Vienna). For every ECG, the main features were analysed and filed in the database together with the pre–hospital data collected for every patient according to the Utstein style. Results We collected 370 ECGs: 287 males (77.6%); median age 62 years old (IQR 53–70 years); 121 from Pavia (32.7%), 38 from Lugano (10.3%) and 211 from Vienna (57.0%). In Cox univariable regression, age older than 62 years [HR 1.7 (95% IC 1.1–2.4), p = 0.007], QRS wider than 120 msec [HR 1.87 (95% IC 1.3–2.7), p Conclusions Our study confirms the central role of ECG in STEMI patients resuscitated after an OHCA and proves that post–ROSC ECG features can be used for both the selection of patients who may benefit from urgent coronary angiography as well as for prognostic stratifications.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Once the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is achieved the acquisition of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is strongly recommended in order to determine candidates for urgent coronary angiography. However, little is known so far about the association of ECG features and survival to hospital discharge in OHCA patients. Purpose The aim of the present study is to assess whether ECG features could be associated with survival to hospital discharge. Methods We analysed all the post-ROSC ECGs collected from January 2015 to December 2018 in three European centres. For every ECG, the main features were analysed and filed in the database together with the pre-hospital data collected for every patient according to the Utstein style. Every ECG was evaluated by two independent cardiologists and in case of doubt a third one was asked to solve the dispute. Results We collected 370 ECGs: 287 males (77.6%); median age 62 years old (IQR 53-70 years); 121 from center 1 (32.7%), 38 from center 2 (10.3%) and 211 from center 3 (57.0%). In Cox univariable regression, age older than 62 years [HR 1.7 (95%CI 1.1-2.4), p=0.007], QRS wider than 120 msec [HR 1.87 (95%CI 1.3-2.7), p Conclusions Our study proves that after an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, post-ROSC ECG features can be used for prognostic stratification in addition to the selection of patients who may benefit from urgent coronary angiography.

Introduction According to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines secondary prevention ICD implantation is a class I indication only for those patients with an estimated survival > 1 year with a good functional status. However, it is not specified how to assess the functional status and its evaluation could be quite difficult in the case of out–of–hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survivors with major neurological outcomes. Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) is the most widespread scale to define the neurological and functional outcome of OHCA survivors, but it is not known if it can be used to guide ICD implantation. Objective To evaluate whether the presence of a bad neurological outcome (CPC > 2) at discharged could be used as a prognostic index in order to evaluate the implantation of an ICD in OHCA survivors. Materials and Methods. We considered all the patients who had a cardiac arrest from 01/10/2014 to 30/09/2019 presenting a CPC> 2 at discharge. The territory included was that of the Province of Pavia (550000 inhabitants) from 2014 to 2018 and of the Provinces of Pavia, Lodi, Cremona and Mantua (1550000 inhabitants) from 2019. We assessed the survival and the neurological status variation at 1–year. Results In the study period, CPR was attempted in 2998 confirmed OHCAs. 227 patients (7.6%) were discharged alive and in 218 of these, CPC was available. 51 patients (23.4%) had a CPC>2 at discharge (22 CPC = 3, 24 CPC = 4 and 5 CPC = A). 1–year follow–up was available in 200 patients: among 158 alive, 12 (7.6%) had CPC>2 (7 CPC = 3 and 5 CPC = 4). 1–year survival of patients with CPC>2 at discharge was significantly lower those discharged with CPC≤2 (39.6% vs 91.6% p 2 survived at 1 year: a good cerebral performance was recovered in 6 patients (31.6%), while CPC>2 persisted in 11 (58%) and the CPC value was unknown in 2 of them. Conclusions Our results highlight that 1–year survival is quite low in patients with CPC>2 at discharge and that an improvement in cerebral performance occurs only in a minority of them. This evidence suggests the need for clinical re–evaluation after the event in order to carefully evaluate whether to implant an ICD in this kind of patients.

Symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease of the colon (SUDD) is generally managed by gastroenterologists rather than General Practitioners (GPs). The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of the treatment of SUDD with rifaximin, a non-absorbable antibiotic, in a primary care setting by GPs.This retrospective, observational study investigated the use of rifaximin at a dose of 400 mg b.i.d. for 5, 7 or 10 days monthly, up to 3 months. The symptoms were reported by the patients using a visual analogic scale (VAS) of 0-10.286 SUDD patients were enrolled (44.4% of men, average age 70.92±10.98). Respectively, 15 (5.2%) patients received the treatment for 5 days, 205 (71.7%) for 7 days and 66 (23.1%) for 10 days. After three months, a significant reduction of VAS score was observed in almost all symptoms assessed: 135 (47.2%) patients reported no abdominal pain (p0.001) and 23 (8.1%) reported no symptom. Adverse events related to the treatment were recorded in 3 (1.04%) patients, all of them mild and not requiring interruption of the treatment. Acute diverticulitis occurred in 9 (3.1%) patients, but only 2 of them [0.7% (n=2)] underwent surgery due to complicated diverticulitis. Analysis within the different treatment groups (5, 7 and 10 days) shows that rifaximin treatment is effective in reducing the severity of symptoms in almost all groups except for the constipation in the 5-day group.Rifaximin can be effectively used by GPs in real-life for the management of SUDD.

Proceedings of the 30th National Conference of the Italian Group for the Study of Neuromorphology “Gruppo Italiano per lo Studio della Neuromorfologia” G.I.S.N., November 12-14, 2020, University of Torino, Torino (Virtual Event) - Italy.

Il contributo analizza i reperti in ceramica e gli altri materiali rinvenuti nei depositi scavati all'interno della basilica di San Severo a Classe, dalla sua fondazione sul finire del VI all'abbandono nel XIX secolo

Il contributo analizza tutti i materiali (ceramica, vetro, monete etc.) rinvenuti nell'area di scavo posta a nord della basilica di san severo a Classe (Ravenna), databili dalla prima età imperiale (I sec. d.C.) all'età rinascimentale e moderna.

Background: The relevance of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G in dimeric form in multiple sclerosis (MS) is still unknown. Objective: To investigate the contribution of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) HLA-G dimers in MS pathogenesis. Methods: CSF amounts of 78-kDa HLA-G dimers were measured by western blot analysis in 80 MS relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients and in 81 inflammatory and 70 non-inflammatory controls. Results: CSF amounts of 78kDa HLA-G dimers were more frequent in RRMS than in inflammatory ( pConclusion: Our findings suggest that HLA-G dimers may be implicated in termination of inflammatory response occurring in MS.

Despite the generally excellent results achieved with fluconazole 150 mg weekly in recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis (RVVC), some patients with a long history of disease do not achieve complete resolution of symptoms following antimycotic treatment. It is thought that use of tight synthetic fabric underwear could be a significant factor in causing recurrence. We decided to compare underwear made of Dermasilk(®) , a pure fibroin fabric impregnated with a permanent antimicrobial protection, with a cotton placebo to see whether it could be a useful adjunctive tool in the management of RVVC. We recruited 96 women who had a long-term history of RVVC and had not responded to oral antimycotics with complete satisfaction. The patients were randomly divided into two groups and instructed to use either white cotton placebo briefs or Dermasilk(®) briefs. Both groups were treated with fluconazole 150 mg once weekly for 6 months. After 6 months, the Dermasilk group showed a statistically significant greater decrease of itching, burning, erythema and a smaller number of recurrences than the cotton group. Our work suggests that Dermasilk(®) briefs could be a useful adjunctive tool in addition to antimycotic treatment to help relieve the discomfort of recurrent vulvovaginitis.

The Ge2Sb2Te5 compound is of interest for applications in phase change non-volatile memories. First-principles calculations of phonon dispersion relations and electron-phonon coupling constant provide an estimate of the electron-phonon contribution to the thermal boundary resistance at the interfaces of Ge2Sb2Te5 with dielectrics (silica) and metal electrodes (Al and TiN). The diffuse mismatch model including full phononic dispersion has been used to compute the phononic contribution to the thermal boundary resistance. The calculated value of the electron-phonon contribution to the TBR at 300 K of about 14 m(2)K GW(-1) would dominate the TBR at the interfaces of hexagonal Ge2Sb2Te5 with the surrounding dielectrics and metals considered here once interdiffusion at the boundaries could be minimized.

Obiettivi: valutazione della prevalenza di fumatori negli studenti di medicina e di infermieristica al fine di migliorarne le competenze e i comportamenti in tema di tabagismo, in vista anche del loro futuro ruolo nelle Aziende Sanitarie1.Materiali e metodi: nell’ambito della Facoltà di Medicina dell’Università di Bologna è stato condotto uno studio sugli aspetti motivazionali e comportamentali delle abitudini al fumo nei giovani iscritti al primo anno di Medicina e di Infermieristica negli AA 1999-2000 e 2002-2003. L’indagine è stata svolta somministrando questionari anonimi agli studenti in aula. Si è ottenuta così una percentuale di rispondenti pari all’ 87 e al 90% della popolazione studentesca iscritta. Risultati: la prevalenza di fumatori cronici o occasionali è andata incrementandosi negli ultimi due anni del 7% tra gli studenti di infermieristica e dell’8,8% tra quelli di medicina, sino a raggiungere rispettivamente il 42,4% e il 25,7%. Nel 2002 il 13,5% dei fumatori ha dichiarato di contemplare la possibilità di smettere entro la fine del corso di studi. Nonostante la giovane età, il 10% di loro erano recidivi da tentativi di disassuefazione falliti.Conclusioni: evidente il trend di aumento dell’abitudine al fumo nelle categorie considerate e la difficoltà, a volte notevole, di evitare ricadute nel tabagismo in assenza di adeguato sostegno. Da questi dati è emersa la necessità di impegnarsi per garantire agli studenti sia una più specifica preparazione (si è previsto nel curriculum studi un modulo elective sul tabagismo) che una possibilità di disassuefazione precoce, grazie a un canale preferenziale presso il centro per la Disassuefazione dal Fumo di Tabacco dell’ Azienda S. Orsola Malpighi (ove operano docenti del modulo).

Obesity is associated with a systemic, low-grade inflammatory state. Although the relationship between obesity and semen parameters or prostate diseases has been previously investigated, the association between body mass index (BMI), prostate inflammatory diseases and color- Doppler ultrasound (CDU) of the male genital tract (MGT) has been poorly studied.To evaluate the association between BMI and CDU features of the MGT, signs and symptoms of prostate inflammation, semen parameters.We studied 222 men seeking medical care for couple infertility. According to the World Health Organization classification, subjects were divided into 3 groups: normal weight (no.=131, BMI=18.5-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (no.=71, BMI=25.0-29.9 kg/m2), obese (no.=20, BMI≥30.0 kg/m2). All patients underwent simultaneous testosterone evaluation and seminal analysis, including interleukin 8 (sIL-8), along with scrotal and transrectal CDU, before and after ejaculation. Prostatitis symptoms were evaluated by National Institutes of Health- Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index questionnaire.After adjusting for age and testosterone levels, higher BMI was significantly related to higher prostate volume and several CDU features of the prostate, including macro-calcifications, inhomogeneity, higher arterial peak systolic velocity (the latter adjusted also for blood pressure), but not with abnormalities of testis, epididymis, seminal vesicles. Furthermore, higher BMI and BMI class were significantly related to higher sIL-8, a reliable surrogate marker of prostate inflammatory diseases, even after adjustment for age. Conversely, no associations among BMI, clinical symptoms of prostatitis or semen parameters were observed.Subjects with higher BMI might develop CDU and biochemical signs suggestive of prostate inflammation, although not clinically overt.

This study was aimed at evaluating the association between seminal plasma interleukin-8 (sIL-8) and colour-Doppler ultrasound (CDU) characteristics of the male genital tract in a series of patients fulfilling the criteria of male accessory gland infections (MAGI). Of 250 subjects seeking medical care for couple infertility, 79 (mean age: 36.4 ± 7.5 years) met the criteria of MAGI and scored higher than the rest of the sample on the National Institutes of Health-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index score. All patients underwent simultaneous hormone evaluation and seminal analysis (including sIL-8), along with scrotal and transrectal CDU before and after ejaculation. After adjusting for age, sIL-8 in patients with MAGI was significantly related to several abnormal semen and CDU parameters. In particular, leucocytospermia was closely associated with sIL-8. Ejaculate volume, unlike other semen or hormonal parameters, was negatively associated with sIL-8. When scrotal CDU was performed, sIL-8 was positively related to CDU inhomogeneous, hypo-echoic, hyper-echoic epididymis and to epididymal calcifications. In addition, a positive correlation among sIL-8, hyperaemic epididymis and an increased size of epididymal tail was found. When transrectal CDU was performed, an association among sIL-8 and hyper-echoic seminal vesicles, dilated ejaculatory ducts and duct calcifications was also observed. Finally, sIL-8 was positively related to prostate CDU abnormalities such as calcifications, inhomogeneous/hypo-echoic texture, hyperaemia and high arterial blood flow. No association was found with testis parameters. In conclusion, sIL-8 levels in patients with MAGI are associated with several parameters and CDU abnormalities of epididymis, seminal vesicles, ejaculatory ducts and prostate, but not of the testis. Furthermore, sIL-8 positively correlates with CDU signs of ejaculatory duct inflammatory subobstruction.

Absence of DNA fragmentation and/or decondensation is a marker of sperm quality and is related to outcome of assisted reproductive techniques: new tests have been set up to determine fragmentation rate.