116 results on '"Ferreri, L."'
Search Results
2. PO-1944: FMECA analysis of VMAT prostate treatment
- Author
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Lastrucci, A., primary, Betti, M., additional, Marciello, L., additional, Serventi, E., additional, Wandael, Y., additional, Ferreri, L., additional, Segnini, S., additional, Spediacci, M.A., additional, Fedeli, L., additional, Meucci, F., additional, Marzano, S., additional, and Ricci, R., additional
- Published
- 2020
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3. Plasticity of Amino Acid Residue 145 Near the Receptor Binding Site of H3 Swine Influenza A Viruses and Its Impact on Receptor Binding and Antibody Recognition
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Santos, J J S, Abente, E J, Obadan, A O, Thompson, A J, Ferreri, L, Geiger, G, Gonzalez-Reiche, A S, Lewis, N S, Burke, D F, Rajão, D S, Paulson, J C, Vincent, A L, and Perez, D R
- Abstract
The hemagglutinin (HA), a glycoprotein on the surface of influenza A virus (IAV), initiates the virus life cycle by binding to terminal sialic acid (SA) residues on host cells. The HA gradually accumulates amino acid substitutions that allow IAV to escape immunity through a mechanism known as antigenic drift. We recently confirmed that a small set of amino acid residues are largely responsible for driving antigenic drift in swine-origin H3 IAV. All identified residues are located adjacent to the HA receptor binding site (RBS), suggesting that substitutions associated with antigenic drift may also influence receptor binding. Among those substitutions, residue 145 was shown to be a major determinant of antigenic evolution. To determine whether there are functional constraints to substitutions near the RBS and their impact on receptor binding and antigenic properties, we carried out site-directed mutagenesis experiments at the single-amino-acid level. We generated a panel of viruses carrying substitutions at residue 145 representing all 20 amino acids. Despite limited amino acid usage in nature, most substitutions at residue 145 were well tolerated without having a major impact on virus replication in vitro. All substitution mutants retained receptor binding specificity, but the substitutions frequently led to decreased receptor binding. Glycan microarray analysis showed that substitutions at residue 145 modulate binding to a broad range of glycans. Furthermore, antigenic characterization identified specific substitutions at residue 145 that altered antibody recognition. This work provides a better understanding of the functional effects of amino acid substitutions near the RBS and the interplay between receptor binding and antigenic drift.
- Published
- 2019
4. Nutritional management in renal transplant recipients: A transplant team opportunity to improve graft survival
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Sabbatini, M., primary, Ferreri, L., additional, Pisani, A., additional, Capuano, I., additional, Morgillo, M., additional, Memoli, A., additional, Riccio, E., additional, and Guida, B., additional
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- 2019
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5. Test shelf-life accelerata e valutazione delle proprietà diffusionali
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Zampino D., Ferreri T., Ferreri L., Romeo E., Pastorelli G., Milazzo E.M.S., D'Amico S., Rizzarelli P., and Rapisarda M.
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formulati a base di frutta ,insalata di IV gamma ,shelf life accelerata ,shelf life T ambiente ,biscotti ,packaging biodegradabile e non - Abstract
L'attività di ricerca si inserisce all'interno del Progetto "Utilizzo integrato di approcci tecnologici innovativi per migliorare la shelf-life e preservare le proprietà nutrizionali di prodotti agroalimentari (SHELF-LIFE)". La shelf-life di nuovi formulati a base di frutta confezionati con imballaggio primario e secondario biodegradabile e non sono stati sottoposti ad invecchiamento naturale e/o accelerato, a diversi tempi di incubazione. Il confronto dei dati ottenuti mediante shelf-life a temperatura ambiente e accelerata ha fatto rilevare che i campioni invecchiati per tre mesi a temperatura ambiente corrispondono a quelli sottoposti a shelf-life accelerata per 15 giorni sia per i pigmenti non volatili che per i componenti volatili. I componenti volatili principali appaiono abbastanza stabili nel corso della durata di tutti i test, mentre i componenti minoritari mostrano un comportamento irregolare, probabilmente a causa di differenti processi di degradazione. Fra i differenti tipi di imballaggio secondario solo uno ha mostrato, anche se in modo lieve, una migliore capacità protettiva. All'interno della stessa attività è stata monitorata la permeabilità ai gas di packaging di prodotti vegetali. Sulla base dei risultati ottenuti è stata rilevata una durata della shelf-life dell'insalata confezionata con un packaging non biodegradabile di 8-10 giorni di frigoconservazione. Infatti, considerando l'osservazione visiva e dei diversi parametri analizzati, questo packaging è risultato l'imballaggio migliore per questa tipologia di prodotto. I packaging biodegradabili, invece, non sono risultati idonei per il confezionamento e il prolungamento della shelf-life dell'insalata di IV gamma. Nel caso del confezionamento di biscotti i risultati hanno consentito di rilevare che il packaging non biodegradabile ha dato i migliori risultati sia dal punto di vista del mantenimento della qualità del prodotto alimentare che da quello di sicurezza del consumatore (basso sviluppo di carica microbica), consentendo un prolungamento della shelf-life fino a circa 3 mesi dal confezionamento. Gli altri packaging sono risultati adatti per una shelf-life a temperatura ambiente non superiore a 2 mesi dal confezionamento.
- Published
- 2017
6. Valutazione della migrazione di inchiostri e della loro stabilità
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Zampino D., Ferreri T., Ferreri L., Romeo E., and Pastorelli G.
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inchiostro ,polimeri - Abstract
Descrizione: L'attività di ricerca si inserisce all'interno del Progetto Dispositivi ad Alto Contenuto Tecnologico per il Settore Biomedicale (DIATEME) L'obiettivo di questa attività è stato quello di verificare la migrazione di sostanze dell'inchiostro dalle sacche stampate alle soluzioni infusionali, nutrionali e parentali prima e dopo sterilizzazione. L'inchiostro è la dispersione di pigmenti (polveri fini insolubili colorate) o la soluzione di coloranti (solubili in qualche solvente) in un mezzo acquoso o organico con l'aggiunta di additivi fluidi di vari tipi (collanti, tensioattivi, polimeri). Poiché la temperatura e la pressione possono aumentare la cessione delle sostanze presenti nell'inchiostro, sono state messe a punto differenti metodologie di analisi di cessione a diversi tempi e pressioni su due tipi di sacche infusionali stampate con inchiostri differenti fornite dall'azienda. Già dopo tre giorni si è osservata la diffusione dell'inchiostro dal film stampato a quello non stampato direttamente a suo contatto. In generale, la diffusione dell'inchiostro è aumentata con l'aumentare del peso sui campioni e della durata. Tuttavia, a parità di condizioni (peso e numero di giorni) si è osservata una maggiore diffusione in uno dei due campioni che già a tre giorni e con il peso di 1 Kg mostrava diffusione dell'inchiostro chiaramente visibile ad occhio nudo.
- Published
- 2017
7. Effect of Chronic Cabergoline Treatment and Testosterone Replacement on Metabolism in Male Patients with Prolactinomas
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AURIEMMA, RENATA SIMONA, GALDIERO, MARIANO, PIVONELLO, CLAUDIA, COLAO, ANNAMARIA, PIVONELLO, ROSARIO, Vitale P, Granieri L, Lo Calzo F, Salzano C, Ferreri L, Cariati F, Coppola G, de Angelis C, Auriemma, RENATA SIMONA, Galdiero, Mariano, Vitale, P, Granieri, L, Lo Calzo, F, Salzano, C, Ferreri, L, Pivonello, Claudia, Cariati, F, Coppola, G, de Angelis, C, Colao, Annamaria, and Pivonello, Rosario
- Published
- 2015
8. Sviluppo di materiali antimicrobici ottenuti attraverso processi di miscelazione di zeoliti o nano particelle di argento
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Zampino D., Ferreri T., Ferreri L., Carbone D., Recca G., Dattilo S., Romeo E., Mancuso M., Zaccone R., and Pastorelli G.
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zeoliti d'argento ,rilascio - Abstract
L'attività di ricerca si inserisce all'interno del Progetto Dispositivi ad Alto Contenuto Tecnologico per il Settore Biomedicale (DIATEME). Nell'obiettivo realizzativo 2 Sviluppo di dispositivi a funzionalità programmata nell'ambito dell'attività 1.2.2 sono stati sviluppati materiali antimicrobici a base di PVC ftalati free miscelati con zeoliti o nano particelle d'argento allo stato fuso. I compositi ottenuti sono stati caratterizzati tramite TGA ed analisi reologica. L'effetto antibatterico dei compositi è stato esaminato su Escherichia coli e Staphylococcus epidermidis in trypticase soia brodo (TSB). Per determinare il rilascio di ioni d'argento sono stati eseguiti due tipi di esperimenti che hanno consentito di determinare la quantità totale di ioni argento liberi rilasciati dai compositi giornaliero e dopo 5-10-20 giorni di accumulo tramite ICP-MS.
- Published
- 2016
9. Determinazione del peso molecolare e quantificazione, come percento in peso, delle frazioni al di sotto di 1000 e 500 dalton e dei monomeri residui
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Rizzarelli P., Zampino D., Ferreri L., and Impallomeni G.
- Published
- 2007
10. Cellular automata for contact ecoepidemic processes in predator–prey systems
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Ferreri, L., primary and Venturino, E., additional
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- 2013
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11. Effect of antibody specificity on results of selected digoxin immunoassays among various clinical groups
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Datta, P, primary, Xu, L, primary, Malik, S, primary, Landicho, D, primary, Ferreri, L, primary, Halverson, K, primary, Roby, P V, primary, Zebelman, A M, primary, and Kenny, M A, primary
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- 1996
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12. Long-term stability of alpha-1-antichymotrypsin complexed form of prostate specific antigen.
- Author
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Brawer, M K, Ferreri, L F, and Bankson, D D
- Subjects
- *
PROSTATE-specific antigen , *CHYMOTRYPSIN , *PROSTATE cancer , *BIOPSY - Abstract
PSA complexed with alpha-1-anti-chymotrypsin (cPSA™) is the moiety in greatest proportion in the serum of men with prostate cancer (CAP). The performance of this analyte has been established primarily in retrospective archival serum. Studies indicate cPSA™ provides the specificity enhancement of the free-to-total PSA ratio, yet obviates the need to measure two markers. In the present investigation we sought to establish the stability of cPSA™ with long-term storage. Serum from men undergoing ultrasound-guided biopsy was utilized. Serum was assayed soon after collection and 18 months later. All serum was initially aliquotted and stored at -80°C. There was no freeze–thaw. cPSA™ was measured utilizing the Bayer Immuno 1 method according to manufacturer's recommendations. The mean (s.d.) PSA was 5.5 (3.8) and 5.6 (3.9) ng/ml at the initial and subsequent testing, respectively. The medians were 4.3 and 4.4 ng/ml, respectively. No significant differences exist between the two determinants (r2=1.0, slope=1.01, t-test P=0.9194). These data establish for the first time the long-term stability of cPSA™. Retrospective studies performed on archival material should give meaningful results. Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases (2000) 3, 191–194 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2000
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13. Lipoprotein Patterns in Normal Lactating Holstein Cows Bled at Various Times: Effects of Milking.
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Gleockler, D. H., Ferreri, L. F., and Flaim, E.
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- 1980
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14. Pattern of tick aggregation on rodents: larger than expected tail distribution enhances the spread of tick-borne pathogens
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Ferreri, L., Giacobini, M., Bajardi, P., Bertolotti, L., Bolzoni, L., Annapaola Rizzoli, and Roberto Rosà
15. Modelling the effects of tick-host interaction on pathogen dynamics: TBE as a case study
- Author
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Roberto Rosà, Bolzoni, L., Francesca Cagnacci, Heidi Christine Hauffe, Valentina Tagliapietra, Ferreri, L., Giacobini, M., Kazimirova, M., Henttonen, H., and Annapaola Rizzoli
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Settore VET/06 - PARASSITOLOGIA E MALATTIE PARASSITARIE DEGLI ANIMALI
16. Effect of Estrogens on Rat Serum Cholesterol Concentrations: Consideration of Dose, Type of Estrogen, and Treatment Duration*
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FERRERI, L. F., primary and NAITO, H. K., additional
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- 1978
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17. Inhibition of Experimental Lactational Mammary Gland Growth in the Rat with Exogenous Estrogen and Progesterone
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Ferreri, L. F., primary and Griffith, D. R., additional
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- 1977
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18. Plasma lipid and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in adult males consuming normal and high cholesterol diets under controlled conditions
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Flaim, E, primary, Ferreri, L F, additional, Thye, F W, additional, Hill, J E, additional, and Ritchey, S J, additional
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- 1981
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19. EFFECT OF HYPOPHYSECTOMY AND HORMONE REPLACEMENT ON THE DNA AND RNA CONTENT OF EXPERIMENTALLY DEVELOPED RAT MAMMARY GLANDS
- Author
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FERRERI, L. F., primary and GRIFFITH, D. R., additional
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- 1977
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20. Lipoprotein Patterns in Normal Lactating Holstein Cows Bled at Various Times: Effects of Milking
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Gleockler, D. H., primary, Ferreri, L. F., additional, and Flaim, E., additional
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- 1980
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21. Effect of Hydrocortisone Acetate on Mammary Gland Nucleic Content of Pregnant Rats
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Ferreri, L. F., primary and Griffith, D. R., additional
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- 1969
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22. Plasma lipid and lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations in adult males consuming normal and high cholesterol diets under controlled conditions
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Ritchey, S. J., Hill, J. E., Flaim, E., Thye, F. W., and Ferreri, L. F.
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DIET - Published
- 1981
23. Near-Infrared-Responsive Choline-Calix[4]arene-Gold Nanostructures for Potential Photothermal Cancer Treatment
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Grazia M. L. Consoli, Giuseppe Forte, Ludovica Maugeri, Valeria Consoli, Valeria Sorrenti, Luca Vanella, Gianpiero Buscarino, Simonpietro Agnello, Massimo Camarda, Giuseppe Granata, Loredana Ferreri, Salvatore Petralia, Consoli G.M.L., Forte G., Maugeri L., Consoli V., Sorrenti V., Vanella L., Buscarino G., Agnello S., Camarda M., Granata G., Ferreri L., and Petralia S.
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gold nanostructures ,photothermal therapy ,molecular modeling ,Settore FIS/01 - Fisica Sperimentale ,calixarene ,General Materials Science ,photothermal effect ,cancer treatment - Abstract
The development of novel chemical approaches for the fabrication of gold nanostructures with localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) falling in the near-infrared (NIR) region is one challenging topic in nanomaterials science. Due to their optical and photothermal properties triggered by light excitation in the therapeutic window (λmax = 650-1300 nm), gold-based nanostructures are appealing candidates in anticancer nanomedicine. Here, we report a novel method to prepare water-dispersible gold nanostructures with NIR-LSPR (λmax = 600-1000 nm) properties. The gold nanostructures were achieved in a single step by an unconventional method using NADH as a reducing agent and an amphiphilic choline-calix[4]arene derivative (CholCalix) forming micelles as a template. The CholCalix-Au nanostructures were characterized by UV-visible spectrophotometry, Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Agglomeration of the nanostructures due to multiple crosslinking interactions was observed and supported by modeling simulation. Effective anticancer photothermal-induced effect of the CholCalix-AuNPs was demonstrated on human breast cancer cells irradiated with biofriendly light at 808 nm.
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- 2023
24. Stepwise shortening of agalsidase beta infusion duration in Fabry disease: Clinical experience with infusion rate escalation protocol
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Maria Amicone, Pasquale Buonanno, Eleonora Riccio, Monica Franzese, Antonio Pisani, Ivana Capuano, Lucia Ferreri, Mario Zanfardino, Riccio, E., Zanfardino, M., Franzese, M., Capuano, I., Buonanno, P., Ferreri, L., Amicone, M., and Pisani, A.
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Adult ,Male ,0301 basic medicine ,infusion‐associated reactions ,QH426-470 ,030105 genetics & heredity ,Drug Administration Schedule ,03 medical and health sciences ,Quality of life ,infusion-associated reaction ,Genetics ,Humans ,Medicine ,infusion-associated reactions ,Infusions, Intravenous ,Patient compliance ,Molecular Biology ,Genetics (clinical) ,Aged ,Fabry disease ,business.industry ,Significant difference ,Original Articles ,Enzyme replacement therapy ,Middle Aged ,medicine.disease ,AGALSIDASE BETA ,Isoenzymes ,030104 developmental biology ,Tolerability ,infusion rate escalation protocol ,alpha-Galactosidase ,Anesthesia ,Cohort ,agalsidase beta ,Original Article ,Female ,business ,enzyme replacement therapy - Abstract
Background Although enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase beta resulted in a variety of clinical benefits, life‐long biweekly intravenous infusion may impact on patients’ quality of life. Moreover, regular infusions are time‐consuming: although a stepwise shortening of infusion duration is allowed up to a minimum of 1.5 hr, in most centers it remains ≥3 hr, and no data exists about the safety and tolerability of agalsidase beta administration at maximum tolerated infusion rate. Methods In this study, we reported our experience with a stepwise infusion rate escalation protocol developed in our center in a cohort of 53 Fabry patients (both already receiving and treatment‐naΪve), and explored factors predictive for the infusion rate increase tolerability. Results Fifty‐two patients (98%) reduced infusion duration ≤3 hr; of these, 38 (72%) even reached a duration ≤2 hr. We found a significant difference between the mean duration reached by already treated and naΪve patients (p, Although enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase beta resulted in a variety of clinical benefits, life‐long biweekly intravenous infusion may impact on patients’ quality of life because regular infusions are time‐consuming. In this study, we reported our experience with a stepwise infusion rate escalation protocol developed in our center in a cohort of 53 Fabry patients (both already receiving and treatment‐naΪve), and explored factors predictive for the infusion rate increase tolerability. We showed that our infusion rate escalation protocol is safe and could improve patient compliance, satisfaction and quality of life.
- Published
- 2021
25. Safety of long-term treatment with cabergoline on cardiac valve disease in patients with prolactinomas
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Ylenia Perone, Davide Iacuaniello, Maurizio Gasperi, Chiara Simeoli, Lucia Ferreri, Annamaria Colao, Ludovica Fs Grasso, Rosario Pivonello, Renata S. Auriemma, Auriemma, R. S., Pivonello, R., Perone, Y., Grasso, L. F. S., Ferreri, L., Simeoli, C., Iacuaniello, D., Gasperi, M., and Colao, A.
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Male ,Time Factors ,Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism ,Heart Valve Diseases ,Disease ,Severity of Illness Index ,Antineoplastic Agent ,Cohort Studies ,Endocrinology ,Early Diagnosi ,Prevalence ,Pituitary Neoplasm ,Ultrasonography ,Cumulative dose ,General Medicine ,Middle Aged ,Heart Valves ,Heart Valve Disease ,Italy ,Dopamine Agonists ,Cardiology ,Female ,Drug Monitoring ,Human ,medicine.drug ,Cohort study ,Heart Valve ,Adult ,medicine.medical_specialty ,Cabergoline ,Time Factor ,Ergoline ,Antineoplastic Agents ,Regurgitation (circulation) ,Dopamine Agonist ,Follow-Up Studie ,Internal medicine ,Severity of illness ,medicine ,Humans ,Pituitary Neoplasms ,Prolactinoma ,In patient ,Ergolines ,business.industry ,Surgery ,Clinical trial ,Early Diagnosis ,Cohort Studie ,business ,Follow-Up Studies - Abstract
ObjectiveCabergoline (CAB) has been found to be associated with increased risk of cardiac valve regurgitation in Parkinson's disease, whereas several retrospective analyses failed to detect a similar relation in hyperprolactinemic patients. The current study aimed at investigating cardiac valve disease before and after 24 and 60 months of continuous treatment with CAB only in patients with hyperprolactinemia.Subjects and methodsForty patients (11 men and 29 women, aged 38.7±12.5 years) newly diagnosed with hyperprolactinemia entered the study. Cumulative CAB dose ranged from 12 to 588 mg (median 48 mg) at 24 months and 48–1260 mg (median 149 mg) at 60 months. All patients underwent a complete trans-thoracic echocardiographic examination. Valve regurgitation was assessed according to the American Society of Echocardiography.ResultsAt baseline, the prevalence of trace mitral, aortic, pulmonic, and tricuspid regurgitations was 20, 2.5, 10, and 40% respectively, with no patient showing clinically relevant valvulopathy. After 24 months, no change in the prevalence of trace mitral (P=0.78) and pulmonic (P=0.89) regurgitations and of mild aortic (P=0.89) and tricuspid (P=0.89) regurgitations was found when compared with baseline. After 60 months, the prevalence of trace tricuspid regurgitation was only slightly increased when compared with that after 24 months (37.5%; P=0.82), but none of the patients developed significant valvulopathy. No correlation was found between cumulative dose and prevalence or grade of valve regurgitation at both evaluations. Prolactin levels normalized in all patients but one.ConclusionCAB does not increase the risk of significant cardiac valve regurgitation in prolactinomas after the first 5 years of treatment.
- Published
- 2013
26. Cabergoline use for pituitary tumors and valvular disorders
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Renata S. Auriemma, Rosario Pivonello, Annamaria Colao, Prisco Priscitelli, Lucia Ferreri, Auriemma, RENATA SIMONA, Pivonello, Rosario, Ferreri, L, Priscitelli, P, and Colao, Annamaria
- Subjects
medicine.medical_specialty ,Pathology ,Cabergoline ,Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism ,Heart Valve Diseases ,Disease ,Gastroenterology ,Endocrinology ,Pituitary adenoma ,Internal medicine ,Acromegaly ,medicine ,Humans ,Pituitary Neoplasms ,Prolactinoma ,Ergolines ,business.industry ,Cumulative dose ,fungi ,Pituitary tumors ,food and beverages ,Cushing's disease ,medicine.disease ,Dopamine Agonists ,business ,medicine.drug - Abstract
Cabergoline (CAB) is widely used for the medical treatment of pituitary tumors, particularly those associated with hormone hypersecretion. Whether treatment with CAB is associated with an increased risk of clinically relevant cardiac valve disease in patients with pituitary tumors is still debated. In most studies, CAB has been found not associated with an increased risk of significant valvulopathy, and no correlation has been shown between valvular abnormalities and CAB duration or cumulative dose. This review provides an overview of the studies reporting on the outcome of CAB in terms of cardiac valve disease in patients with pituitary tumors.
- Published
- 2015
27. Lights on music cognition: A systematic and critical review of fNIRS applications and future perspectives.
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Curzel F, Tillmann B, and Ferreri L
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- Humans, Brain diagnostic imaging, Brain physiology, Functional Neuroimaging methods, Functional Neuroimaging trends, Auditory Perception physiology, Cognition physiology, Music, Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared methods, Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared trends
- Abstract
Research investigating the neural processes related to music perception and production constitutes a well-established field within the cognitive neurosciences. While most neuroimaging tools have limitations in studying the complexity of musical experiences, functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) represents a promising, relatively new tool for studying music processes in both laboratory and ecological settings, which is also suitable for both typical and pathological populations across development. Here we systematically review fNIRS studies on music cognition, highlighting prospects and potentialities. We also include an overview of fNIRS basic theory, together with a brief comparison to characteristics of other neuroimaging tools. Fifty-nine studies meeting inclusion criteria (i.e., using fNIRS with music as the primary stimulus) are presented across five thematic sections. Critical discussion of methodology leads us to propose guidelines of good practices aiming for robust signal analyses and reproducibility. A continuously updated world map is proposed, including basic information from studies meeting the inclusion criteria. It provides an organized, accessible, and updatable reference database, which could serve as a catalyst for future collaborations within the community. In conclusion, fNIRS shows potential for investigating cognitive processes in music, particularly in ecological contexts and with special populations, aligning with current research priorities in music cognition., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2024
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28. Enhancing musical pleasure through shared musical experience.
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Curzel F, Osiurak F, Trân E, Tillmann B, Ripollés P, and Ferreri L
- Abstract
Music and social interactions represent two of the most important sources of pleasure in our lives, both engaging the mesolimbic dopaminergic system. However, there is limited understanding regarding whether and how sharing a musical activity in a social context influences and modifies individuals' rewarding experiences. Here, we aimed at (1) modulating the pleasure derived from music under different social scenarios and (2) further investigating its impact on reward-related prosocial behavior and memory. Across three online experiments, we simulated a socially shared music listening and found that participants' music reward was significantly modulated by the social context, with higher reported pleasure for greater levels of social sharing. Furthermore, the increased pleasure reported by the participants positively influenced prosocial behavior and memory outcomes, highlighting the facilitating role of socially boosted reward. These findings provide evidence about the rewarding nature of socially driven music experiences, with important potential implications in educational and clinical settings., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024 The Authors.)
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- 2024
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29. Synthesis, Characterisation, and In Vitro Evaluation of Biocompatibility, Antibacterial and Antitumor Activity of Imidazolium Ionic Liquids.
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Novello E, Scalzo G, D'Agata G, Raucci MG, Ambrosio L, Soriente A, Tomasello B, Restuccia C, Parafati L, Consoli GML, Ferreri L, Rescifina A, Zagni C, and Zampino DC
- Abstract
In recent decades, ionic liquids (ILs) have garnered research interest for their noteworthy properties, such as thermal stability, low or no flammability, and negligible vapour pressure. Moreover, their tunability offers limitless opportunities to design ILs with properties suitable for applications in many industrial fields. This study aims to synthetise two series of methylimidazolium ILs bearing long alkyl chain in their cations (C9, C10, C12, C14, C16, C18, C20) and with tetrafluoroborate (BF
4 ) and the 1,3-dimethyl-5-sulfoisophthalate (DMSIP) as counter ions. The ILs were characterised using1 H-NMR and MALDI-TOF, and their thermal behaviour was investigated through DSC and TGA. Additionally, the antimicrobial, anticancer, and cytotoxic activities of the ILs were analysed. Moreover, the most promising ILs were incorporated at different concentrations (0.5, 1, 5 wt%) into polyvinyl chloride (PVC) by solvent casting to obtain antimicrobial blend films. The thermal properties and stability of the resulting PVC/IL films, along with their hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, IL surface distribution, and release, were studied using DSC and TGA, contact angle (CA), SEM, and UV-vis spectrometry, respectively. Furthermore, the antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of blends were analysed. The in vitro results demonstrated that the antimicrobial and antitumor activities of pure ILs against t Listeria monocytogenes , Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas fluorescens strains, and the breast cancer cell line (MCF7), respectively, were mainly dependent on their structure. These activities were higher in the series containing the BF4 anion and increased with the increase in the methylimidazolium cation alkyl chain length. However, the elongation of the alkyl chain beyond C16 induced a decrease in antimicrobial activity, indicating a cut-off effect. A similar trend was also observed in terms of in vitro biocompatibility. The loading of both the series of ILs into the PVC matrix did not affect the thermal stability of PVC blend films. However, their Tonset decreased with increased IL concentration and alkyl chain length. Similarly, both the series of PVC/IL films became more hydrophilic with increasing IL concentration and alkyl chain. The loading of ILs at 5% concentration led to considerable IL accumulation on the blend film surfaces (as observed in SEM images) and, subsequently, their higher release. The biocompatibility assessment with healthy human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells and the investigation of antitumoral properties unveiled promising pharmacological characteristics. These findings provide strong support for the potential utilisation of ILs in biomedical applications, especially in the context of cancer therapy and as antibacterial agents to address the challenge of antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, the unique properties of the PVC/IL films make them versatile materials for advancing healthcare technologies, from drug delivery to tissue engineering and antimicrobial coatings to diagnostic devices.- Published
- 2024
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30. How do intentions modulate the effect of working memory on long-term memory?
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Labaronne M, Ferreri L, and Plancher G
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- Humans, Adult, Male, Female, Young Adult, Memory, Short-Term physiology, Memory, Long-Term physiology, Mental Recall physiology, Intention
- Abstract
Previous studies found that working memory maintenance contributes to long-term memory formation, and some evidence suggests that this effect could be larger when individuals are informed of the final long-term memory test. However, no study so far has explored whether and how working memory maintenance adapts when long-term retention is intentional. In this study, we conducted two experiments using verbal complex span tasks followed by delayed-recall tests. In both experiments, we evaluated working memory maintenance by varying the cognitive load of the concurrent task and with memory strategies reports. We manipulated intentions to remember at long term by warning participants of the final delayed recall or not (Experiment 1) or by monetarily rewarding immediate or delayed-recall performance (Experiment 2). We found no evidence that intentions changed the working memory maintenance mechanisms and strategies used, yet the cognitive load (Experiment 1) and rewards (Experiment 2) effects on delayed recalls were increased with a higher intention to remember at long term. We discuss possible interpretations for these results and suggest that the effect of intentions may not be due to a change in the kind of maintenance mechanisms used. As our results cannot be explained solely by encoding or maintenance processes, we instead propose that intentions produce a combined change in encoding and maintenance. However, the exact nature of this modulation will need further investigation. We conclude that understanding how intentions modulate the effect of working memory on long-term memory could shed new light on their relationship., (© 2023. The Psychonomic Society, Inc.)
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- 2024
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31. A novel cationic β-cyclodextrin decorated with a choline-like pendant exhibits Iodophor, Mucoadhesive and bactericidal properties.
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Pedotti S, Ferreri L, Migliore R, Leotta CG, Pitari GM, D'Antona N, Petralia S, Aleo D, Sgarlata C, and Consoli GML
- Subjects
- Humans, Choline, Solubility, Anti-Bacterial Agents pharmacology, Iodophors, Water chemistry, Calorimetry, Differential Scanning, 2-Hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin chemistry, beta-Cyclodextrins chemistry, Iodine pharmacology, Iodine chemistry
- Abstract
Iodine is a vital microelement and a powerful antiseptic with a rapid and broad spectrum of action. The development of iodophor compounds to improve the solubility and stability of iodine is still challenging. Here, we report the synthesis of a novel cationic β-cyclodextrin bearing a choline-like pendant (β-CD-Chol) designed to complex and deliver iodine to bacterial cells. The characterization of β-CD-Chol and the investigation of the inclusion complex with iodine were performed by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, UV-vis spectrophotometry, isothermal titration calorimetry, and dynamic light scattering. The functionalization with the positively charged unit conferred improved water-solubility, mucoadhesivity, and iodine complexation efficiency to the β-CD scaffold. The water-soluble β-CD-Chol/iodine complex efficiently formed both in solution and by solid-vapor reaction. The solid complex exhibited a significant stability for months. Iodine release from the inclusion complex was satisfactory and the bactericidal activity was proved against a Staphylococcus epidermidis strain. The absence of cytotoxicity tested on human keratinocytes and the improved mucoadhesivity make β-CD-Chol a promising drug delivery system and an appealing iodophor candidate for iodine-based antisepsis including mucosa disinfection., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The Authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationship that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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32. Molecularly Mixed Composite Membranes for Gas Separation Based on Macrocycles Embedded in a Polyimide.
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Vuono D, Clarizia G, Ferreri L, Consoli GML, Zampino DC, Scalzo G, Petralia S, and Bernardo P
- Abstract
Polyimides are a polymer class that has been extensively investigated as a membrane material for gas separation owing to its interesting permselective properties in a wide range of operation temperatures and pressures. In order to improve their properties, the addition of different filler types is currently studied. p-tert -Butylcalix[n]arene macrocycles (PTBCs) with different cavity sizes (PTBC4, PTBC6, PTBC8) were used as fillers in a commercial thermoplastic polyimide, with a concentration in the range 1-9 wt%, to develop nanocomposite membranes for gas separation. The selected macrocycles are attractive organic compounds owing to their porous structure and affinity with organic polymers. The nanocomposite membranes were prepared in the form of films in which the polymeric matrix is a continuous phase incorporating the dispersed additives. The preparation was carried out according to a pre-mixing approach in a mutual solvent, and the solution casting was followed by a controlled solvent evaporation. The films were characterized by investigating their miscibility, morphology, thermal and spectral properties. The gas transport through these films was examined as a function of the temperature and also time. The results evidenced that the incorporation of the chosen nanoporous fillers can be exploited to enhance molecular transport, offering additional pathways and promoting rearrangements of the polymeric chains.
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- 2024
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33. Evolution of highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza A virus in the central nervous system of ferrets.
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Siegers JY, Ferreri L, Eggink D, Veldhuis Kroeze EJB, Te Velthuis AJW, van de Bildt M, Leijten L, van Run P, de Meulder D, Bestebroer T, Richard M, Kuiken T, Lowen AC, Herfst S, and van Riel D
- Subjects
- Animals, Humans, Ferrets, Central Nervous System, Zoonoses, Influenza A virus, Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype genetics, Influenza, Human, Orthomyxoviridae Infections, Influenza in Birds
- Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) disease is the most common extra-respiratory tract complication of influenza A virus infections in humans. Remarkably, zoonotic highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus infections are more often associated with CNS disease than infections with seasonal influenza viruses. Evolution of avian influenza viruses has been extensively studied in the context of respiratory infections, but evolutionary processes in CNS infections remain poorly understood. We have previously observed that the ability of HPAI A/Indonesia/5/2005 (H5N1) virus to replicate in and spread throughout the CNS varies widely between individual ferrets. Based on these observations, we sought to understand the impact of entrance into and replication within the CNS on the evolutionary dynamics of virus populations. First, we identified and characterized three substitutions-PB1 E177G and A652T and NP I119M - detected in the CNS of a ferret infected with influenza A/Indonesia/5/2005 (H5N1) virus that developed a severe meningo-encephalitis. We found that some of these substitutions, individually or collectively, resulted in increased polymerase activity in vitro. Nevertheless, in vivo, the virus bearing the CNS-associated mutations retained its capacity to infect the CNS but showed reduced dispersion to other anatomical sites. Analyses of viral diversity in the nasal turbinate and olfactory bulb revealed the lack of a genetic bottleneck acting on virus populations accessing the CNS via this route. Furthermore, virus populations bearing the CNS-associated mutations showed signs of positive selection in the brainstem. These features of dispersion to the CNS are consistent with the action of selective processes, underlining the potential for H5N1 viruses to adapt to the CNS., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2023 Siegers et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)
- Published
- 2023
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34. Polymer Blends Based on 1-Hexadecyl-3-methyl Imidazolium 1,3-Dimethyl 5-Sulfoisophthalate Ionic Liquid: Thermo-Mechanical, Surface Morphology and Antibacterial Properties.
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Zampino DC, Samperi F, Mancuso M, Ferreri T, Ferreri L, Dattilo S, Mirabella EF, Carbone DC, Recca G, Scamporrino AA, Novello E, and Puglisi C
- Abstract
In this study, antibacterial polymer blends based on Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and Polystyrene-Ethylene-Butylene-Styrene (SEBS), loaded with the ionic liquid (IL) 1-hexadecyl-3-methyl imidazolium 1,3-dimethyl 5-sulfoisophthalate (HdmimDMSIP) at three different concentrations (1%, 5%, and 10%), were produced. The IL/blends were characterized by their thermo-mechanical properties, surface morphology, and wettability. IL release from the blends was also evaluated. The agar diffusion method was used to test the antibacterial activity of the blends against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli . Results from thermal analyses showed compatibility between the IL and the PVC matrix, while phase separation in the SEBS/IL blends was observed. These results were confirmed using PY-GC MS data. SEM analyses highlighted abundant IL deposition on PVC blend film surfaces containing the IL at 5-10% concentrations, whereas the SEBS blend film surfaces showed irregular structures similar to islands of different sizes. Data on water contact angle proved that the loading of the IL into both polymer matrices induced higher wettability of the blends' surfaces, mostly in the SEBS films. The mechanical analyses evidenced a lowering of Young's Modulus, Tensile Stress, and Strain at Break in the SEBS blends, according to IL concentration. The PVC/IL blends showed a similar trend, but with an increase in the Strain at Break as IL concentration in the blends increased. Both PVC/IL and SEBS/IL blends displayed the best performance against Staphylococcus epidermidis , being active at low concentration (1%), whereas the antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli was lower than that of S. epidermidis. Release data highlighted an IL dose-dependent release. These results are promising for a versatile use of these antimicrobial polymers in a variety of fields.
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- 2023
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35. Calix[4]arene Derivative for Iodine Capture and Effect on Leaching of Iodine through Packaging.
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Ferreri L, Rapisarda M, Leanza M, Munzone C, D'Antona N, Consoli GML, Rizzarelli P, and Spina ETA
- Subjects
- Povidone-Iodine, Spectrum Analysis, Iodine, Calixarenes chemistry
- Abstract
A hydrophobic calix[4]arene derivative was investigated for its iodine (I
2 ) capture efficiency from gaseous and liquid phase. The iodine uptake was followed by UV-vis spectroscopy. Additionally, the influence of the calix[4]arene derivative-polyolefin system on the leaching of iodine through packaging from a povidone-iodine-based (PVP-I) formulation was evaluated. In fact, iodine is a low-cost, multi-target, and broad-spectrum antiseptic. However, it is volatile, and the extended storage of I2 -based formulations is challenging in plastic packaging. Here, we investigated the possibility of reducing the loss of I2 from an iodophor formulation by incorporating 4- tert -butylcalix [4]arene-tetraacetic acid tetraethyl ester (CX) and its iodine complex in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP) via a swelling procedure. Surface and bulk changes were monitored by contact angle, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra. The barrier effect of the different polymeric systems (embedded with CX, iodine-CX complex, or I2) was evaluated by monitoring the I2 retention in a buffered PVP-I solution by UV-vis spectroscopy. Overall, experimental data showed the capability of the calix[4]arene derivative to complex iodine in solution and the solid state and a significant reduction in the iodine leaching by the PP-CX systems.- Published
- 2023
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36. Evolution and Introductions of Influenza A Virus H1N1 in a Farrow-to-Finish Farm in Guatemala.
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Ortiz L, Geiger G, Ferreri L, Moran D, Alvarez D, Gonzalez-Reiche AS, Mendez D, Rajao D, Cordon-Rosales C, and Perez DR
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- Swine, Humans, Animals, Farms, Guatemala epidemiology, Phylogeny, Influenza A virus genetics, Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype genetics, Influenza, Human epidemiology, Orthomyxoviridae Infections epidemiology, Orthomyxoviridae Infections veterinary, Swine Diseases epidemiology
- Abstract
Commercial swine farms provide unique systems for interspecies transmission of influenza A viruses (FLUAVs) at the animal-human interface. Bidirectional transmission of FLUAVs between pigs and humans plays a significant role in the generation of novel strains that become established in the new host population. Active FLUAV surveillance was conducted for 2 years on a commercial pig farm in Southern Guatemala with no history of FLUAV vaccination. Nasal swabs ( n = 2,094) from fattening pigs (6 to 24 weeks old) with respiratory signs were collected weekly from May 2016 to February 2018. Swabs were screened for FLUAV by real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (RRT-PCR), and full virus genomes of FLUAV-positive swabs were sequenced by next-generation sequencing (NGS). FLUAV prevalence was 12.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.6% to 13.4%) with two distinct periods of high infection. All samples were identified as FLUAVs of the H1N1 subtype within the H1 swine clade 1A.3.3.2 and whose ancestors are the human origin 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic virus (H1N1 pdm09). Compared to the prototypic reference segment sequence, 10 amino acid signatures were observed on relevant antigenic sites on the hemagglutinin. The Guatemalan swine-origin FLUAVs show independent evolution from other H1N1 pdm09 FLUAVs circulating in Central America. The zoonotic risk of these viruses remains unknown but strongly calls for continued FLUAV surveillance in pigs in Guatemala. IMPORTANCE Despite increased surveillance efforts, the epidemiology of FLUAVs circulating in swine in Latin America remains understudied. For instance, the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic strain (H1N1 pdm09) emerged in Mexico, but its circulation remained undetected in pigs. In Central America, Guatemala is the country with the largest swine industry. We found a unique group of H1N1 pdm09 sequences that suggests independent evolution from similar viruses circulating in Central America. These viruses may represent the establishment of a novel genetic lineage with the potential to reassort with other cocirculating viruses and whose zoonotic risk remains to be determined.
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- 2023
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37. Blue-Winged Teals in Guatemala and Their Potential Role in the Ecology of H14 Subtype Influenza a Viruses.
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Ortiz L, Geiger G, Ferreri L, Moran D, Mendez D, Gonzalez-Reiche AS, Alvarez D, Motta M, Escobar F, Rajao D, Cordon-Rosales C, Nelson MI, and Perez DR
- Subjects
- Animals, Guatemala, Ecology, Arginine, Ducks, Influenza A virus genetics
- Abstract
Wild aquatic birds are considered the natural hosts of 16 HA (H1-H16) and 9 NA (N1-N9) subtypes of influenza A viruses (FLUAV) found in different combinations. H14 FLUAVs are rarely detected in nature. Since 2011, H14 FLUAVs have been consistently detected in Guatemala, leading to the largest collection of this subtype from a single country. All H14 FLUAVs in Guatemala were detected from blue-winged teal samples. In this report, 17 new full-length H14 FLUAV genome sequences detected from 2014 until 2019 were analyzed and compared to all published H14 sequences, including Guatemala, North America, and Eurasia. The H14 FLUAVs identified in Guatemala were mostly associated with the N3 subtype ( n = 25), whereas the rest were paired with either N4 ( n = 7), N5 ( n = 4), N6 ( n = 1), and two mixed infections (N3/N5 n = 2, and N2/N3 n = 1). H14 FLUAVs in Guatemala belong to a distinct H14 lineage in the Americas that is evolving independently from the Eurasian H14 lineage. Of note, the ORF of the H14 HA segments showed three distinct motifs at the cleavage site, two of these containing arginine instead of lysine in the first and fourth positions, not previously described in other countries. The effects of these mutations on virus replication, virulence, and/or transmission remain unknown and warrant further studies.
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- 2023
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38. Green Light-Triggerable Chemo-Photothermal Activity of Cytarabine-Loaded Polymer Carbon Dots: Mechanism and Preliminary In Vitro Evaluation.
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Consoli GML, Giuffrida ML, Zimbone S, Ferreri L, Maugeri L, Palmieri M, Satriano C, Forte G, and Petralia S
- Subjects
- Carbon chemistry, Doxorubicin chemistry, Cytarabine, Polymers chemistry, Light, Phototherapy methods, Hyperthermia, Induced, Nanoparticles chemistry
- Abstract
Carbon-based nanostructures are attracting a lot of attention because of their very low toxicity, excellent visible light-triggered optical and photothermal properties, and intriguing applications. Currently, the development of multifunctional carbon-based nanostructures for a synergistic chemo-photothermal approach is a challenging topic for the advancement of cancer treatment. Here, we report an unprecedented example of photoresponsive carbon-based polymer dots (CPDs-PNM) obtained by a one-pot thermal process from poly( N -isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) without using organic solvent and additional reagents. The CPDs-PNM nanostructures were characterized by spectroscopic techniques, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The CPDs-PNM exhibited high photothermal conversion efficiency, lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior, and good cytarabine (arabinosyl cytosine, AraC) loading capacity (62.3%). The formation of a CPDs-PNM/AraC adduct and photothermal-controlled drug release, triggered by green light excitation, were demonstrated by spectroscopic techniques, and the drug-polymer interaction and drug release mechanism were well supported by modeling simulation calculations. The cellular uptake of empty and AraC-loaded CPDs-PNM was imaged by confocal laser scanning microscopy. In vitro experiments evidenced that CPDs-PNM did not affect the viability of neuroblastoma cells, while the CPDs-PNM/AraC adduct under light irradiation exhibited significantly higher toxicity than AraC alone by a combined chemo-photothermal effect.
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- 2023
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39. The role of opioid transmission in music-induced pleasure.
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Mas-Herrero E, Ferreri L, Cardona G, Zatorre RJ, Pla-Juncà F, Antonijoan RM, Riba J, Valle M, and Rodriguez-Fornells A
- Subjects
- Naltrexone, Oxycodone, Reward, Double-Blind Method, Healthy Volunteers, Humans, Analgesics, Opioid agonists, Analgesics, Opioid antagonists & inhibitors, Analgesics, Opioid metabolism, Music psychology, Pleasure physiology
- Abstract
Studies conducted in rodents indicate a crucial role of the opioid circuit in mediating objective hedonic reactions to primary rewards. However, it remains unclear whether opioid transmission is also essential to experience pleasure with more abstract rewards, such as music. We addressed this question using a double-blind within-subject pharmacological design in which opioid levels were up- and downregulated by administering an opioid agonist (oxycodone) and antagonist (naltrexone), respectively, before healthy participants (n = 21) listened to music. Participants also performed a monetary incentive delay (MID) task to control for the effectiveness of the treatment and the specificity of the effects. Our results revealed that the pharmacological intervention did not modulate subjective reports of pleasure, nor the occurrence of chills. On the contrary, psychophysiological (objective) measures of emotional arousal, such as skin conductance responses (SCRs), were bidirectionally modulated in both the music and MID tasks. This modulation specifically occurred during reward consumption, with greater pleasure-related SCR following oxycodone than naltrexone. These findings indicate that opioid transmission does not modulate subjective evaluations but rather affects objective reward-related psychophysiological responses. These findings raise new caveats about the role of the opioidergic system in the modulation of pleasure for more abstract or cognitive forms of rewarding experiences, such as music., (© 2022 The Authors. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of New York Academy of Sciences.)
- Published
- 2023
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40. p -Sulfonato-Calix[4]arene Micelles Stabilize a Povidone Iodine Solution: Supramolecular Interactions, Iodine Retention, and Bactericidal Activity.
- Author
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Migliore R, Ferreri L, Aleo D, Leotta CG, Pitari GM, D'Antona N, Sgarlata C, and Consoli GML
- Abstract
Povidone iodine (PVPI) is an antiseptic widely used against a broad spectrum of pathogens. However, undesired side-effects are still associated with PVPI treatment due to the irritant effect of iodine. Reducing the concentration of a PVPI formulation could provide safer and more friendly formulations, for routine use and applications in very delicate organs such as the eye. However, managing the storage of a low-concentration solution of PVPI is challenging due to the high iodine volatility. In this study, we demonstrated that an amphiphilic p -sulfonato-calix[4]arene derivative forming micelles (SC4OC6) improves the stability of a 0.1% PVPI aqueous buffered solution. UV-vis and NMR spectra as well as dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering measurements showed that SC4OC6 establishes non-covalent supramolecular interactions with PVPI, resulting in the formation of nanoaggregates with a negatively charged surface. Isothermal titration calorimetry provided the aggregation parameters and evidenced that the formation of the supramolecular assembly is an enthalpically favored process. The interaction of SC4OC6 with PVPI enhances the iodine retention and stability of the solution without affecting the rapid and effective bactericidal activity of PVPI, as demonstrated by a time-killing assay with Staphylococcus epidermidis .
- Published
- 2023
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41. Music engagement is negatively correlated with depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic via reward-related mechanisms.
- Author
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Mas-Herrero E, Singer N, Ferreri L, McPhee M, Zatorre RJ, and Ripollés P
- Subjects
- Humans, Depression epidemiology, Pandemics, Reward, Music psychology, COVID-19 epidemiology
- Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply affected the mental health of millions of people. We assessed which of many leisure activities correlated with positive mental health outputs, with particular attention to music, which has been reported to be important for coping with the psychological burden of the pandemic. Questionnaire data from about 1000 individuals primarily from Italy, Spain, and the United States during May-June 2020 show that people picked music activities (listening to, playing, singing, etc.) most often as the leisure experiences that helped them the most to cope with psychological distress related with the pandemic. During the pandemic, hours of engagement in music and food-related activities were associated with lower depressive symptoms. The negative correlation between music and depression was mediated by individual differences in sensitivity to reward, whereas the correlation between food-related activities and improved mental health outputs was explained by differences in emotion suppression strategies. Our results, while correlational, suggest that engaging in music activities could be related to improved well-being with the underlying mechanism being related to reward, consistent with neuroscience findings. Our data have practical significance in pointing to effective strategies to cope with mental health issues beyond those related to the COVID-19 pandemic., (© 2022 New York Academy of Sciences.)
- Published
- 2023
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42. Editorial: Rhythm in human cognition and action: Health and pathology.
- Author
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Benoit CE, Ferreri L, Lega C, and van Vugt FT
- Abstract
Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
- Published
- 2022
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43. Memory modulations through musical pleasure.
- Author
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Ferreri L and Rodriguez-Fornells A
- Subjects
- Auditory Perception, Dopamine, Emotions, Humans, Reward, Music, Pleasure
- Abstract
Music, thanks to its strong evocative power, is considered a powerful mnemonic tool for both normal and clinical populations. However, the mechanisms underpinning the music-driven benefits on memory remain unclear. In memory research, reward dopaminergic signals have been highlighted as a major modulator of memory traces consolidation. Over the last years, via behavioral and pharmacological approaches, we have investigated the hypothesis that dopaminergic-dependent musical pleasure is a crucial mechanism underpinning music-driven memory benefits. Our results show that the pleasure felt during music listening, modulated by both the dopaminergic transmission and participants' sensitivity to music reward, can increase episodic memory performance for the music itself as well as for nonmusical-associated information. In this commentary paper, we aim to review the main findings obtained from three different studies, in order to discuss current advances and future directions in this research area., (© 2022 The Authors. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of New York Academy of Sciences.)
- Published
- 2022
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44. The forgotten role of absorption in music reward.
- Author
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Cardona G, Ferreri L, Lorenzo-Seva U, Russo FA, and Rodriguez-Fornells A
- Subjects
- Emotions physiology, Humans, Individuality, Memory Disorders, Pleasure physiology, Reward, Music psychology
- Abstract
Interindividual differences in music-related reward have been characterized as involving five main facets: musical seeking, emotion evocation, mood regulation, social reward, and sensory-motor. An interesting concept related to how humans decode music as a rewarding experience is music transcendence or absorption (i.e., music-driven states of complete immersion, including momentary loss of self-consciousness or even time-space disorientation). Here, we investigated the relation between previously characterized facets of music reward and individual differences in music absorption. A first sample of participants (N = 370) completed both the Barcelona Music Reward Questionnaire (BMRQ) and the Absorption in Music Scale (AIMS). Results showed that both constructs were highly interrelated (r = 0.78, p < 0.001), indicating that higher music reward sensitivity is associated with a greater tendency to music-related absorption states. In addition, four items from the AIMS were identified as suitable to be added to an extended version of the BMRQ (eBMRQ). A second sample (N = 550) completed the eBMRQ for a validation study. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses on the whole sample (N = 920) showed the reliable psychometric properties of the eBMRQ and suggested that taking into account an absorption facet could contribute to a better characterization of individual differences in the sensitivity to experience music-related reward and pleasure., (© 2022 The Authors. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of New York Academy of Sciences.)
- Published
- 2022
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45. Temporal Predictions in Space: Isochronous Rhythms Promote Forward Projections of the Body.
- Author
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Ferreri L, Versace R, Victor C, and Plancher G
- Abstract
A regular rhythmic stimulation increases people's ability to anticipate future events in time and to move their body in space. Temporal concepts are usually prescribed to spatial locations through a past-behind and future-ahead mapping. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that a regular rhythmic stimulation could promote the forward-body (i.e., toward the future) projections in the peri-personal space. In a Visual Approach/Avoidance by the Self Task (VAAST), participants ( N = 24) observed a visual scene on the screen (i.e., a music studio with a metronome in the middle). They were exposed to 3 s of auditory isochronous or non-isochronous rhythms, after which they were asked to make as quickly as possible a perceptual judgment on the visual scene (i.e., whether the metronome pendulum was pointing to the right or left). The responses could trigger a forward or backward visual flow, i.e., approaching or moving them away from the scene. Results showed a significant interaction between the rhythmic stimulation and the movement projections ( p < 0.001): participants were faster for responses triggering forward-body projections (but not backward-body projections) after the exposure to isochronous (but not non-isochronous) rhythm. By highlighting the strong link between isochronous rhythms and forward-body projections, these findings support the idea that temporal predictions driven by a regular auditory stimulation are grounded in a perception-action system integrating temporal and spatial information., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Ferreri, Versace, Victor and Plancher.)
- Published
- 2022
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46. SARS-CoV-2 in Kidney Transplant Patients: A Real-Life Experience.
- Author
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Pinchera B, Spirito L, Ferreri L, Rocca R, Celentano G, Buonomo AR, Foggia M, Scotto R, Federico S, Gentile I, and Carrano R
- Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the management of solid organ transplant recipients and on clinical evolution in post-transplantation. Little is known on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in these patients. The severity and lethality of this disease in solid organ transplant patients are higher thanin the general population. This study aims to describe clinical characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infection in solid organ transplant recipients followed in our center., Methods: In this observational study, we enrolled all kidney transplant recipientsattending the A.O.U. Federico II of Naples from March 2020 to January 2021. For each patient we evaluated the epidemiological and clinical characteristics as well as outcome., Results: We enrolled 369 kidney transplant patients (229, male, 62%). Of these, 51 (13.8%) acquired SARS-CoV-2 infection and 29 showed symptomatic disease. Of the 51 patients with the infection, 48 (94.11%) had at least one comorbidity and such comorbidities did not constitute a risk factor for a more severe disease. Hospitalization was necessary for 7 (13.7%) patients. Of these, 2 required low-flow oxygen supplementation, 3 non-invasive/high flow ventilation and 2 invasive ventilation. Finally, 2 patients died., Conclusions: Our study shows a lower mortality and hospitalization rate compared to figures available in the literature (4% vs. 13-30% and 14% vs. 32-100%, respectively). Furthermore, the comorbidities examined (hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes) did not constitute a risk factor for a more severe disease condition in this patient category. Further studies with larger sample size are necessary to confirm these data., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Pinchera, Spirito, Ferreri, Rocca, Celentano, Buonomo, Foggia, Scotto, Federico, Gentile, Carrano and “Federico II” COVID-19 Team.)
- Published
- 2022
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47. The Human Cerebellum as a Hub of the Predictive Brain.
- Author
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Gatti D, Rinaldi L, Ferreri L, and Vecchi T
- Abstract
Although the cerebellum has long been believed to be involved uniquely in sensorimotor processes, recent research works pointed to its participation in a wide range of cognitive predictive functions. Here, we review the available evidence supporting a generalized role of the cerebellum in predictive computation. We then discuss the anatomo-physiological properties that make the cerebellum the ideal hub of the predictive brain. We further argue that cerebellar involvement in cognition may follow a continuous gradient, with higher cerebellar activity occurring for tasks relying more on predictive processes, and outline the empirical scenarios to probe this hypothesis.
- Published
- 2021
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48. Dopamine modulations of reward-driven music memory consolidation.
- Author
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Ferreri L, Mas-Herrero E, Cardona G, Zatorre RJ, Antonijoan RM, Valle M, Riba J, Ripollés P, and Rodriguez-Fornells A
- Subjects
- Adult, Analysis of Variance, Auditory Perception, Brain physiology, Humans, Pleasure, Young Adult, Dopamine metabolism, Memory Consolidation, Mental Recall, Music, Reward
- Abstract
Music listening provides one of the most significant abstract rewards for humans because hearing music activates the dopaminergic mesolimbic system. Given the strong link between reward, dopamine, and memory, we aimed here to investigate the hypothesis that dopamine-dependent musical reward can drive memory improvements. Twenty-nine healthy participants of both sexes provided reward ratings of unfamiliar musical excerpts that had to be remembered following a consolidation period under three separate conditions: after the ingestion of a dopaminergic antagonist, a dopaminergic precursor, or a placebo. Linear mixed modeling of the intervention data showed that the effect of reward on memory-i.e., the greater the reward experienced while listening to the musical excerpts, the better the memory recollection performance-was modulated by both dopaminergic signaling and individual differences in reward processing. Greater pleasure was consistently associated with better memory outcomes in participants with high sensitivity to musical reward, but this effect was lost when dopaminergic signaling was disrupted in participants with average or low musical hedonia. Our work highlights the flexibility of the human dopaminergic system, which can enhance memory formation not only through explicit and/or primary reinforcers but also via abstract and aesthetic rewards such as music., (© 2021 New York Academy of Sciences.)
- Published
- 2021
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49. Engagement in Music-Related Activities During the COVID-19 Pandemic as a Mirror of Individual Differences in Musical Reward and Coping Strategies.
- Author
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Ferreri L, Singer N, McPhee M, Ripollés P, Zatorre RJ, and Mas-Herrero E
- Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures taken to mitigate its impact (e.g., confinement orders) have affected people's lives in profound ways that would have been unimagable only months before the pandemic began. Media reports from the height of the pandemic's initial international surge frequently highlighted that many people were engaging in music-related activities (from singing and dancing to playing music from balconies and attending virtual concerts) to help them cope with the strain of the pandemic. Our first goal in this study was to investigate changes in music-related habits due to the pandemic. We also investigated whether engagement in distinct music-related activities (singing, listening, dancing, etc.) was associated with individual differences in musical reward, music perception, musical training, or emotional regulation strategies. To do so, we collected detailed (~1 h-long) surveys during the initial peak of shelter-in-place order implementation (May-June 2020) from over a thousand individuals across different Countries in which the pandemic was especially devastating at that time: the USA, Spain, and Italy. Our findings indicate that, on average, people spent more time in music-related activities while under confinement than they had before the pandemic. Notably, this change in behavior was dependent on individual differences in music reward sensitivity, and in emotional regulation strategies. Finally, the type of musical activity with which individuals engaged was further associated with the degree to which they used music as a way to regulate stress, to address the lack of social interaction (especially the individuals more concerned about the risk of contracting the virus), or to cheer themselves up (especially those who were more worried about the pandemic consequences). Identifying which music-related activities have been particularly sought for by the population as a means for coping with such heightened uncertainty and stress, and understanding the individual differences that underlie said propensities are crucial to implementing personalized music-based interventions that aim to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Ferreri, Singer, McPhee, Ripollés, Zatorre and Mas-Herrero.)
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
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50. Stepwise shortening of agalsidase beta infusion duration in Fabry disease: Clinical experience with infusion rate escalation protocol.
- Author
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Riccio E, Zanfardino M, Franzese M, Capuano I, Buonanno P, Ferreri L, Amicone M, and Pisani A
- Subjects
- Adult, Aged, Drug Administration Schedule, Fabry Disease pathology, Female, Humans, Infusions, Intravenous methods, Isoenzymes therapeutic use, Male, Middle Aged, alpha-Galactosidase therapeutic use, Enzyme Replacement Therapy methods, Fabry Disease drug therapy, Isoenzymes administration & dosage, alpha-Galactosidase administration & dosage
- Abstract
Background: Although enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase beta resulted in a variety of clinical benefits, life-long biweekly intravenous infusion may impact on patients' quality of life. Moreover, regular infusions are time-consuming: although a stepwise shortening of infusion duration is allowed up to a minimum of 1.5 hr, in most centers it remains ≥3 hr, and no data exists about the safety and tolerability of agalsidase beta administration at maximum tolerated infusion rate., Methods: In this study, we reported our experience with a stepwise infusion rate escalation protocol developed in our center in a cohort of 53 Fabry patients (both already receiving and treatment-naΪve), and explored factors predictive for the infusion rate increase tolerability., Results: Fifty-two patients (98%) reduced infusion duration ≤3 hr; of these, 38 (72%) even reached a duration ≤2 hr. We found a significant difference between the mean duration reached by already treated and naΪve patients (p < .01). More severely affected patients (male patients and those with lower enzyme activity) received longer infusions for higher risk of infusion-associated reactions (IARs). A significant correlation between anti-agalsidase antibodies and IARs was found., Conclusion: Our infusion rate escalation protocol is safe and could improve patient compliance, satisfaction and quality of life., (© 2021 The Authors. Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
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