244 results on '"Pagnini F."'
Search Results
2. The Interaction Between Asthma, Emotions, and Expectations in the Time of COVID-19
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Volpato E, Banfi P, and Pagnini F
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asthma ,interpretative phenomenological analysis ,covid-19 ,clinical psychology ,Immunologic diseases. Allergy ,RC581-607 - Abstract
Eleonora Volpato,1,2 Paolo Banfi,2 Francesco Pagnini1,3 1Department of Psychology, Universita’ Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy; 2IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy; 3Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USACorrespondence: Eleonora Volpato, Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Via Nirone, 15 CAP. 20123, Milan, Italy, Email eleonora.volpato@unicatt.itIntroduction: The main aim was to gain insight into the experience of adult people with a diagnosis of at least 6-months of mild or moderate persistent asthma according to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), and their emotions, beliefs, and expectations during the first wave of COVID-19.Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) were carried out by phone involving 31 people (mean age=58.2; SD=16.2). Interviews were audio recording, transcribed verbatim and analysed through thematic analysis.Results: Five superordinate themes and themes were dedicated to illness (symptoms of asthma; difficulties related to COVID-19), experienced emotions (lockdown period; medical changes; emotions COVID-19 related), beliefs (about asthma; about COVID-19), expectations (related to asthma; related to COVID-19) and behaviours (to protect; risk taken; adherence; contacts with General Practitioners; support). The prevalence of emotions such as fear, worry and anxiety emerged in the participants’ narratives. All are accompanied by a preference for action and problem solving. A sense of protection, connection to self and other, and commitment to life were revealed as central concepts for enhancing well-being even at a time of deterring.Discussion: The common threads of the presence of uncertainty and vulnerability open the outlook of a treatment that ensures greater continuity and ownership of care in the patient, preserving the sense of self-efficacy even in times of greater instability.Keywords: asthma, interpretative phenomenological analysis, COVID-19, clinical psychology
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- 2023
3. Mindfulness disposition as a protective factor against stress in Antarctica: A potential countermeasure for long-duration spaceflight?
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Pagnini, F., Thoolen, S., Smith, N., Van Ombergen, A., Grosso, F., Langer, E., and Phillips, D.
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- 2024
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4. Illness Perceptions, Cognitions, and Beliefs on COPD Patients’ Adherence to Treatment – A Systematic Review
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Poletti V, Pagnini F, Banfi P, and Volpato E
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“illness perception” ,“copd” ,“adherence to treatment” ,“illness cognition” ,“illness belief” ,Medicine (General) ,R5-920 - Abstract
Valentina Poletti,1 Francesco Pagnini,1 Paolo Banfi,2 Eleonora Volpato1,2 1Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy; 2IRCCS Fondazione Don Gnocchi, Milan, ItalyCorrespondence: Valentina Poletti, Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy, Email valentina.poletti@unicatt.itBackground: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. Besides its irreversibility, COPD is a treatable condition, and patients would strongly benefit from being adherent to their treatments. However, almost half of them are non-adherent, and, according to several recent studies, the way the patient perceives the disease might influence this variable.Aim: This systematic review provided a synthesis of studies about the relationships between illness perceptions (IP), cognitions, beliefs, and adherence in COPD.Methods: English language publications were searched in PubMed, Medline, Scopus, ResearchGate, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library databases from November 2022 to February 2023, following PRISMA guidelines. The reference lists of eligible studies were also searched. Data extraction and critical appraisal were undertaken by two reviewers working independently.Results: A total of 14 studies were included. Adherence to treatment in COPD is confirmed to be low, using both self-report questionnaires and objective assessment systems. Most studies concluded that COPD is perceived as a moderate threat destined to last forever, even if many participants referred to little disease knowledge. This perception did not change between adherent and non-adherent groups. Those who considered more necessary to take their medicines and had a caregiver were more adherent and less concerned about their future. On the other side, forgetfulness, lack of trust in medications, and difficulties in understanding how to take them were perceived as the main causes of non-adherence. Other predictors of non-adherence, like depression, low self-efficacy, and severity of disease were confirmed.Conclusion: The systematic review highlights the variability of the relationship between IP, cognitions and beliefs, and COPD treatment adherence. A new level of awareness of the relationship between patients’ subjective point of view and treatment adherence may inform future treatment options and promote a more personalized intervention.Keywords: illness perception, COPD, adherence to treatment, illness cognition, illness belief
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- 2023
5. The “common” experience of voice-hearing and its relationship with shame and guilt: a systematic review
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Volpato, E., Cavalera, C., Castelnuovo, G., Molinari, E., and Pagnini, F.
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- 2022
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6. The Relationship Between Anxiety, Depression and Treatment Adherence in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review
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Volpato E, Toniolo S, Pagnini F, and Banfi P
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chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ,adherence ,compliance ,anxiety ,depression ,systematic review ,Diseases of the respiratory system ,RC705-779 - Abstract
Eleonora Volpato,1,2 Stefania Toniolo,1 Francesco Pagnini,1,3 Paolo Banfi2 1Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy; 2Heart-Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy; 3Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USACorrespondence: Eleonora Volpato Email eleonora.volpato@unicatt.itBackground: Almost half of the people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) do not adhere to the prescribed treatments and report anxiety and depression as comorbidities, resulting in higher rates of exacerbations, hospitalizations, and worse clinical outcomes.Objective: This systematic review provided a synthesis of studies about the relationships between anxiety, depression, and adherence in people affected by COPD.Methods: English language publications were searched in the PUBMED, SCOPUS, PsycInfo, Web of Science, PsycArticles, and Cochrane Library databases from December 2020 to March 2021, following PRISMA guidelines. The reference lists of eligible studies and other relevant systematic reviews were also searched. Data extraction and critical appraisal were undertaken by two reviewers working independently. The reference lists of eligible studies and other relevant systematic reviews were also searched. Data extraction and critical appraisal were undertaken by two reviewers working independently.Results: A total of 34 studies (23 quantitative and 2 qualitative studies, 9 reviews) were included. The relationship between depression and treatment adherence was significant and negative. Adherence to both rehabilitation, psychological, and antidepressant pharmacological treatments in depressed patients was linked to a decreased risk of hospitalization. Moreover, depressed patients compliant with an antidepressant were more likely to adherent to COPD maintenance inhalers. On the other hand, the associations between anxiety and adherence were poorly investigated and high heterogeneity characterized the studies, leading to a weak and variable relationship as well as too few interventions.Conclusion: The systematic review highlights the variability in estimates of the relationship between depression, anxiety, and treatment adherence in COPD. It could be explained by methodological differences across the included studies. This suggests that standardization is critical to improving the precision of the estimates. Recommendations for future research include attention to causal inferences, an exploration of mechanisms to explain the relationships between both anxiety and depression and adherence in COPD, and a comprehensive, systematic approach.Keywords: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, adherence, compliance, anxiety, depression, systematic review
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- 2021
7. Illness Expectations Assessment in People with Asthma: A Tool for Explicit and Implicit Beliefs
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Pagnini F, Volpato E, Dell'Orto S, Cavalera C, Spina MF, and Banfi P
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illness expectations ,mind/body connection ,asthma ,placebo ,nocebo ,Immunologic diseases. Allergy ,RC581-607 - Abstract
Francesco Pagnini,1,2 Eleonora Volpato,1,3 Silvia Dell’Orto,1 Cesare Cavalera,1 MariaFrancesca Spina,3 Paolo Banfi3 1Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy; 2Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; 3Pneumological Rehabilitation, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, ItalyCorrespondence: Francesco PagniniDepartment of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Nirone, 15, CAP, Milan, 20123, ItalyTel +39 339 1942425Email francesco.pagnini@unicatt.itBackground: Illness expectations are cognitive schemas, both explicit and implicit, describing how symptoms are expected to be in the future. They can be particularly relevant to disease in a mind/body framework. Asthma is a condition in which the psychological aspects can highly influence the body, but no study has directly explored these specific expectations, and no dedicated assessment tools are available.Methods: We developed a questionnaire to assess the illness expectations, together with an ad hoc version of the Implicit Association Test (IAT). We tested its factorial structure, and the internal and test–retest validity, recruiting a sample of 183 asthmatic people. We also explored the convergent validity and the correlations with objective and subjective clinical assessments.Results: Data suggested a three-factorial structure of the questionnaire into expectations about future symptoms, change in current health status, and rigidity of these expectations. The questionnaire showed good psychometric properties and strong associations with the other considered outcomes, including implicit expectations. The implicit evaluation, however, lacked test–retest reliability.Conclusion: The questionnaire is a valid tool to assess illness expectations in people with asthma. The two expectation scales are highly related, and the implicit expectations are moderately associated with the explicit ones. The lack of stability related to IAT results may reflect a lack of stability of the implicit expectations. The implications for the mind/body framework still need to be fully explored.Keywords: illness expectations, mind/body connection, asthma, placebo, nocebo
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- 2021
8. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for depressed individuals with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study
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Rovaris, M., Toselli, E., Mendozzi, L., Di Tella, Sonia, Pirastru, A., Blasi, Valeria, Baglio, Francesca, Ostacoli, Luca, D’Abramo, A., Incerti, A., Fernandez, I., Pagnini, Francesco, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Di Tella S. (ORCID:0000-0002-2248-5120), Blasi V., Baglio F., Ostacoli L., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Rovaris, M., Toselli, E., Mendozzi, L., Di Tella, Sonia, Pirastru, A., Blasi, Valeria, Baglio, Francesca, Ostacoli, Luca, D’Abramo, A., Incerti, A., Fernandez, I., Pagnini, Francesco, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Di Tella S. (ORCID:0000-0002-2248-5120), Blasi V., Baglio F., Ostacoli L., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874)
- Abstract
Background: Multiple studies have highlighted elevated rates of depression among individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), with its associated symptoms posing a significant threat to overall well-being. Moreover, existing literature suggests a potential interconnection between depressive manifestations and the decline of physical functionalities in the context of MS.Objective: to examine the viability of the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy protocol for the treatment of depressive disorders (DeprEND) for alleviating depression in individuals with MS.Methods: We conducted a process-outcome study to examine the feasibilty and effectiveness DeprEND enrolling 13 individuals with MS and depressive symtpoms. Psychological and physical assessment pre-, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up were included. Pre- and post-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were conducted to analyze potential alterations in brain function.Results: The EMDR DeprEND treatment showed a high level of adherence and feasibility. Significant reductions in depressive symptoms were found at post-intervention and at 3 months follow-up. No significant differences were observed in terms of physical symptoms. A significant modulation observed in parietal and premotor areas when examining negative valence stimuli post-treatment was found.Conclusion: for The EMDR DeprEND protocol may represent a feasible and cost-effective treatment for reducing depressive symptoms in MS patients and improving their mental well-being.
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- 2024
9. The evolution of IBD perceived engagement and care needs across the life-cycle: a scoping review
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Volpato, E., Bosio, C., Previtali, E., Leone, S., Armuzzi, A., Pagnini, F., and Graffigna, G.
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- 2021
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10. A Self-Help Virtual Therapeutic Experience Intervention for Overcoming Psychological Distress Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results From the European Multicentric COVID Feel Good Trial
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Riva, G, Di Lernia, D, Tuena, C, Bernardelli, L, Maldonado, J, Ferrer-Garcia, M, Porras-Garcia, B, Meyer, M, Shiban, Y, Castelnuovo, G, Pagnini, F, Pedroli, E, Sforza, F, Clementi, A, Sansoni, M, Wiederhold, B, Serino, S, Riva G., Di Lernia D., Tuena C., Bernardelli L., Maldonado J. G., Ferrer-Garcia M., Porras-Garcia B., Meyer M. L., Shiban Y., Castelnuovo G., Pagnini F., Pedroli E., Sforza F., Clementi A., Sansoni M., Wiederhold B. K., Serino S., Riva, G, Di Lernia, D, Tuena, C, Bernardelli, L, Maldonado, J, Ferrer-Garcia, M, Porras-Garcia, B, Meyer, M, Shiban, Y, Castelnuovo, G, Pagnini, F, Pedroli, E, Sforza, F, Clementi, A, Sansoni, M, Wiederhold, B, Serino, S, Riva G., Di Lernia D., Tuena C., Bernardelli L., Maldonado J. G., Ferrer-Garcia M., Porras-Garcia B., Meyer M. L., Shiban Y., Castelnuovo G., Pagnini F., Pedroli E., Sforza F., Clementi A., Sansoni M., Wiederhold B. K., and Serino S.
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Objective The general objective of the current study was to investigate the efficacy of a novel self-help virtual therapeutic experience (specifically, the COVID Feel Good intervention) in lowering the psychological burden experienced during the COVID-19 lockdowns in four European countries. Methods We focused on participants recruited from June 2020 to May 2021 in the context of a European multicenter project including four university/academic sites. The total number of participants in the longitudinal studies was 107 (study 1, N = 40; study 2, N = 29; study 3, N = 38). The randomized controlled trial (study 4) included 31 participants in total, 16 in the intervention group and 15 in the control group. Primary outcome measures were depression, anxiety, stress symptoms, perceived stress level, and perceived hopelessness. The secondary outcome was experienced social connectedness. Results Using separate linear mixed-effects models, the most consistent result across countries was a reduction in perceived stress after the participation in the COVID Feel Good intervention. By pooling the results of the models using a random-effects meta-analysis, we found that after the COVID Feel Good intervention, participants reported a decrease in perceived general distress (mean standardized effect size for general distress in the treatment groups compared with the control conditions was -0.52 [p =.008, 95% confidence interval = -0.89 to -0.14]) and an increase in the perceived social connection (mean standardized effect size for social connection using COVID Feel Good compared with the control conditions was 0.50 [p ≤.001, 95% confidence interval = 0.25 to 0.76]). Conclusions Findings of this study indicate that a virtual self-help intervention is effective in reducing psychological distress. These results contribute to the growing literature supporting the use of digital psychological therapies to relieve psychological distress among the general population during the COVID-19 pan
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- 2023
11. Intervento di prevenzione rivolto ai medici di medicina generale mirato alla sensibilizzazione all'intercettazione precoce dei disturbi alcol-correlati e all'intervento breve nel Distretto di Vignola
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Pagnini, F., primary, Marzocchi, N., additional, Montanari, M., additional, and Gabrielli, C., additional
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- 2023
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12. Technologically-enhanced psychological interventions for older adults: a scoping review
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Vailati Riboni, F., Comazzi, B., Bercovitz, K., Castelnuovo, G., Molinari, E., and Pagnini, F.
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- 2020
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13. An online non-meditative mindfulness intervention for people with ALS and their caregivers: a randomized controlled trial
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Pagnini, F., Phillips, D., Haulman, A., Bankert, M., Simmons, Z., Langer, E., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Phillips D., Pagnini, F., Phillips, D., Haulman, A., Bankert, M., Simmons, Z., Langer, E., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Phillips D.
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Objectives: Mindfulness-based interventions seem to be effective in promoting QOL of ALS patients and caregivers, but most require substantial time. In the Langerian approach, mindfulness can be easily promoted with mental tasks and short lectures. This study aims to explore the impact of an ALS-specific online Langerian mindfulness training program on QOL of ALS patients. Methods: We developed and tested with an Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) a 5-week active learning mindfulness program. Participants were recruited from the ALS clinic at Penn State Health and online and were randomly assigned to either the mindfulness group or a wait-list control group. The primary outcome was the patient’s QOL after the treatment. 3 and 6-month follow-ups, together with anxiety, depression, care burden, and physical function, assessed at all times for both patients and caregivers, were explored as secondary outcomes. Results: 47 ALS patients and 27 caregivers were recruited. Among the ALS patients, the experimental group reported higher levels of QOL at the end of the treatment (d = 0.54). Moreover, they showed lower values of depression, anxiety, and negative emotions, compared to the controls, over time. The caregivers from the mindfulness group reported lower scores of care burden, depression, and anxiety, with higher values of energy and emotional well-being over time. Conclusions: This small RCT provides preliminary evidence that this intervention leads to an increase of QOL and a reduction in psychological comorbidities in ALS patients and caregivers. Given the relatively short time commitment, it may be easily implemented by the ALS community.
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- 2022
14. Placebo and Nocebo Effects as Bayesian-Brain Phenomena: The Overlooked Role of Likelihood and Attention
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Pagnini, Francesco, Barbiani, Diletta, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Volpato, Eleonora, Grosso, Francesca, Minazzi, Giacomo Andrea, Vailati Riboni, Francesco Carlo Paolo, Graziano, F., Di Tella, Sonia, Manzoni, Gian Mauro, Silveri, Maria Caterina, Riva, Giuseppe, Phillips, Deborah, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Barbiani D., Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Grosso F. (ORCID:0000-0001-5232-8313), Minazzi G. A. (ORCID:0000-0003-1262-0701), Vailati Riboni F., Di Tella S. (ORCID:0000-0002-2248-5120), Manzoni G. M., Silveri M. C. (ORCID:0000-0001-5012-0682), Riva G. (ORCID:0000-0003-3657-106X), Phillips D., Pagnini, Francesco, Barbiani, Diletta, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Volpato, Eleonora, Grosso, Francesca, Minazzi, Giacomo Andrea, Vailati Riboni, Francesco Carlo Paolo, Graziano, F., Di Tella, Sonia, Manzoni, Gian Mauro, Silveri, Maria Caterina, Riva, Giuseppe, Phillips, Deborah, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Barbiani D., Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Grosso F. (ORCID:0000-0001-5232-8313), Minazzi G. A. (ORCID:0000-0003-1262-0701), Vailati Riboni F., Di Tella S. (ORCID:0000-0002-2248-5120), Manzoni G. M., Silveri M. C. (ORCID:0000-0001-5012-0682), Riva G. (ORCID:0000-0003-3657-106X), and Phillips D.
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The Bayesian-brain framework applied to placebo responses and other mind-body interactions suggests that the effects on the body result from the interaction between priors, such as expectations and learning, and likelihood, such as somatosensorial information. Significant research in this area focuses on the role of the priors, but the relevance of the likelihood has been surprisingly overlooked. One way of manipulating the relevance of the likelihood is by paying attention to sensorial information. We suggest that attention can influence both precision and position (i.e., the relative distance from the priors) of the likelihood by focusing on specific components of the somatosensorial information. Two forms of attention seem particularly relevant in this framework: mindful attention and selective attention. Attention has the potential to be considered a "major player" in placebo/nocebo research, together with expectations and learning. In terms of application, relying on attentional strategies as "amplifiers" or "silencers" of sensorial information could lead to an active involvement of individuals in shaping their care process and health. In this contribution, we discuss the theoretical implications of these intuitions with the aim to provide a comprehensive framework that includes Bayesian brain, placebo/nocebo effects, and the role of attention in mind-body interactions.
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- 2023
15. How do people with MND and caregivers experience a digital mental health intervention? A qualitative study
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Pinto, C., Geraghty, A. W. A., Pagnini, Francesco, Yardley, L., Dennison, L., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Pinto, C., Geraghty, A. W. A., Pagnini, Francesco, Yardley, L., Dennison, L., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
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ObjectiveWe urgently need to develop and evaluate more psychological interventions to support people with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and caregivers. We used the person-based approach to develop a digital mental health intervention and conducted two studies to explore people's experiences of using it. MethodsIn Study 1, we conducted think-aloud interviews with 9 people with MND and 8 caregivers, and used findings to refine the intervention. In Study 2, 18 people with MND and 9 caregivers used the intervention for 6 weeks after which in-depth interviews were conducted. Data from both studies were combined and analysed using thematic analysis. ResultsWe developed 3 main themes around intervention acceptability, engagement, and usefulness. Participants highlighted the importance of accessibility and realistic presentation of information and support. Tailoring and timing intervention use to suit own needs, preferences, and disease stage was also important. Participants used the strategies presented to develop a positive outlook and regain some control. They also faced some challenges using these strategies in the context of dealing with progressive loss. ConclusionPeople with MND and caregivers can find digital mental health interventions useful. Intervention accessibility and flexibility are important for developing acceptable and engaging interventions for MND.
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- 2023
16. Placebo and nocebo effects and mechanisms associated with pharmacological interventions: An umbrella review
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Frisaldi, E., Shaibani, A., Benedetti, F., Pagnini, Francesco, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Frisaldi, E., Shaibani, A., Benedetti, F., Pagnini, Francesco, and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
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Objectives This review aimed to summarise the existing knowledge about placebo and nocebo effects associated with pharmacological interventions and their mechanisms. Design Umbrella review, adopting the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 tool for critical appraisal. Data sources MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial were searched in September 2022, without any time restriction, for systematic reviews, narrative reviews, original articles. Results were summarised through narrative synthesis, tables, 95% CI. Outcome measures Mechanisms underlying placebo/nocebo effects and/or their effect sizes. Results The databases search identified 372 studies, for a total of 158 312 participants, comprising 41 systematic reviews, 312 narrative reviews and 19 original articles. Seventy-three per cent of the examined systematic reviews were of high quality. Our findings revealed that mechanisms underlying placebo and/or nocebo effects have been characterised, at least in part, for: pain, non-noxious somatic sensation, Parkinson's disease, migraine, sleep disorders, intellectual disability, depression, anxiety, dementia, addiction, gynaecological disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, immune and endocrine systems, cardiovascular and respiratory systems, gastrointestinal disorders, skin diseases, influenza and related vaccines, oncology, obesity, physical and cognitive performance. Their magnitude ranged from 0.08 to 2.01 (95% CI 0.37 to 0.89) for placebo effects and from 0.32 to 0.90 (95% CI 0.24 to 1.00) for nocebo effects. Conclusions This study provides a valuable tool for clinicians and researchers, identifying both results ready for clinical practice and gaps to address in the near future. Funding Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy with the 'Finanziamento Ponte 2022' grant. PROSPERO registration number CRD42023392281.
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- 2023
17. Asthma expectations predict symptoms over time: a longitudinal cohort study
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Pagnini, F, primary, Volpato, E, additional, Poletti, V, additional, Cavalera, C, additional, Graziano, F, additional, Spina, F, additional, and Banfi, P, additional
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- 2022
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18. Regenerative Virtual Therapy: The Use of Multisensory Technologies and Mindful Attention for Updating the Altered Representations of the Bodily Self
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Riva, G, Serino, S, Di Lernia, D, Pagnini, F, Riva G., Serino S., Di Lernia D., Pagnini F., Riva, G, Serino, S, Di Lernia, D, Pagnini, F, Riva G., Serino S., Di Lernia D., and Pagnini F.
- Abstract
The term “regenerative medicine” (RM) indicates an emerging trend in biomedical sciences that aims at replacing, engineering, or regenerating human cells, tissues, or organs to restore or establish normal function. So far, the focus of RM has been the physical body. Neuroscience, however, is now suggesting that mental disorders can be broadly characterized by a dysfunction in the way the brain computes and integrates the representations of the inner and outer body across time [bodily self-consciousness (BSC)]. In this perspective, we proposed a new kind of clinical intervention, i.e., “Regenerative Virtual Therapy” (RVT), which integrates knowledge from different disciplines, from neuroscience to computational psychiatry, to regenerate a distorted or faulty BSC. The main goal of RVT was to use technology-based somatic modification techniques to restructure the maladaptive bodily representations behind a pathological condition. Specifically, starting from a Bayesian model of our BSC (i.e., body matrix), we suggested the use of mindful attention, cognitive reappraisal, and brain stimulation techniques merged with high-rewarding and novel synthetic multisensory bodily experience (i.e., a virtual reality full-body illusion in sync with a low predictabIlity interoceptive modulation) to rewrite a faulty experience of the body and to regenerate the wellbeing of an individual. The use of RVT will also offer an unprecedented experimental overview of the dynamics of our bodily representations, allowing the reverse-engineering of their functioning for hacking them using advanced technologies.
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- 2021
19. Mindfulness for Autism
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Poquerusse, J., Pagnini, F., Langer, E. J., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Poquerusse, J., Pagnini, F., Langer, E. J., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
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Objectives: An important complement to molecular treatments, psychological interventions for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are efficient and sustainable. The Western-influenced mindfulness concept is one such particularly powerful psychological construct with widespread benefits spanning health, education, and business spheres. By alleviating the difficulties inherent to certain rigid patterns of cognition and behavior, cognitively fluidifying mindfulness-based interventions anchored in training one’s attention to variability have emerged as promising for improving the well-being of individuals with ASD. The purpose of this paper is to review the evidence supporting these benefits and point to their potential underlying mechanisms. Methods: In this conceptual paper, we first review the broad evidence of the benefits of a range of Western-influenced mindfulness interventions for individuals with ASD, after which we deconstruct their underlying intra-individual processes and effects, and, finally, frame these psychological mechanisms in light of current core cognitive theories of ASD. Results: This paper highlights the established importance and continued promise of Western-influenced mindfulness training in understanding and improving the psychological health and overall well-being of individuals with ASD. As such, we hope to lay the foundation for avenues of future research on mindfulness-inspired interventions aimed at non-invasively improving the lives of individuals and families affected by ASD. Conclusions: This work provides a brief overview bridging Western-influenced mindfulness and cognitive theories of ASD. In so doing, it sheds light on this ripe intersection highly amenable to therapeutic intervention.
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- 2021
20. Empathy-based supportive treatment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A pragmatic study
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Palmieri, A., Kleinbub, J. R., Pagnini, F., Soraru, G., Cipolletta, S., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Palmieri, A., Kleinbub, J. R., Pagnini, F., Soraru, G., Cipolletta, S., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Scarce literature has been dedicated to the psychological treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, there have been some encouraging findings, such as in hypnosis-based studies, which revealed patient improvements in anxiety, depression and quality of life (QoL). We replicated such a design of a pragmatic study on empathy-based supportive counseling treatment in four weekly domiciliary sessions. Twenty-one people with ALS (pALS) consecutively attending the Motor Neuron Disease Center of Padova University were recruited to the study; in total, 21 pALS who did not undergo any kind of psychological treatment served as the control group. In the treatment group, depression, anxiety and QoL (measured respectively with the HADS-D, HADS-A and ALSSQOL-R) were assessed at pre- and post-treatment levels and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Statistical mixed-model regression analyses revealed that in the treated group, perceived conditions of anxiety, depression and QoL were significantly stable compared to worsening in the control patients. Interestingly, there were improvements in the QoL domains “Interaction”, “Emotion” and “Physical” at the 6-month follow-up. Overall, even if not directly comparable, our current results on support-based counseling, though interesting, seem not to reach the efficacy of a hypnosis-based study in which the observed dimensions were significantly improved with respect to the baseline. The implications of our results from a psychodynamic perspective are highlighted.
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- 2021
21. In the Eye of the Covid-19 Storm: A Web-Based Survey of Psychological Distress Among People Living in Lombardy
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Saita, E., Facchin, F., Pagnini, F., Molgora, S., Saita E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0790-2819), Facchin F. (ORCID:0000-0001-8944-1440), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Molgora S. (ORCID:0000-0002-2517-2373), Saita, E., Facchin, F., Pagnini, F., Molgora, S., Saita E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0790-2819), Facchin F. (ORCID:0000-0001-8944-1440), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Molgora S. (ORCID:0000-0002-2517-2373)
- Abstract
In March 2020, the World Health Organization announced the Covid-19 outbreak a pandemic and restrictive measures were enacted by the Governments to fight the spread of the virus. In Italy, these measures included a nationwide lockdown, with limited exceptions including grocery shopping, certain work activities, and healthcare. Consistently with findings from previous studies investigating the psychological impact of similar pandemics [e.g., Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)], there is evidence that Covid-19 is associated with negative mental health outcomes. Given this background, we conducted a cross-sectional study aimed at investigating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent restrictive measures imposed by the Government on the psychological health of Italian men and women aged = 18 years and living in Lombardy, one of the worst-hit regions. The study also aimed at identifying what factors are associated with specific psychological outcomes. Thus, we developed an online survey that included a researcher-made questionnaire to collect sociodemographic, household, general health, and pandemic-related information. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Perceived Stress Scale were used to assess anxiety, depression, and perceived stress, respectively. We found that younger age, greater concerns about the pandemic, female gender, being unmarried, not having children, and being a student were associated with worse psychological health. These findings may provide further insight into the risk factors associated with negative psychological outcomes during the current pandemic, with identification of vulnerable groups. This body of evidence may help professionals implement targeted psychosocial treatment and prevention programs.
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- 2021
22. Glucose metabolism responds to perceived sugar intake more than actual sugar intake
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Park, C., Pagnini, F., Langer, E., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Park, C., Pagnini, F., Langer, E., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
The authors examine study participants who have Type 2 diabetes to determine whether cognition affects glucose levels in contrast to widely held suppositions. Thirty participants who have type 2 diabetes consume beverages that have identical ingredients but have deceptive nutrition facts labels. Blood glucose levels measured four times before and after beverage consumption show that blood glucose levels increase when participants believe the beverage has high sugar content as portrayed on the labels. Also, individual eating behaviors and nutritional satisfaction are linked to changes in blood glucose levels. The study results support the concept of anticipatory budgeting on glucose metabolism. The findings provide pressing evidence for the psychobiological model of chronic disease, suggesting that psychological intervention programs may be important for diabetes management, beyond current programs in which type 2 diabetes is managed through diet, exercise, and medications only.
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- 2020
23. Asthma expectations predict symptoms over time: a longitudinal cohort study
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Pagnini, Francesco, Volpato, Eleonora, Poletti, Valentina, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Graziano, F, Spina, Francesca, Banfi, P, Pagnini, F (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Volpato, E (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Poletti, V (ORCID:0000-0001-7458-7498), Cavalera, C (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Spina, F, Pagnini, Francesco, Volpato, Eleonora, Poletti, Valentina, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Graziano, F, Spina, Francesca, Banfi, P, Pagnini, F (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Volpato, E (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Poletti, V (ORCID:0000-0001-7458-7498), Cavalera, C (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), and Spina, F
- Abstract
Background: Illness expectations are cognitive schemas, both explicit and implicit, describing how symptoms are expected to be in the future. They can be particularly relevant to disease in a mind/body framework. Asthma is a condition in which the psychological aspects can highly influence the body, but no study has directly explored these specific expectations, and no dedicated assessment tools are available. Methods: We developed a questionnaire to assess the illness expectations, together with an ad hoc version of the Implicit Association Test (IAT). We tested its factorial structure, and the internal and test–retest validity, recruiting a sample of 183 asthmatic people. We also explored the convergent validity and the correlations with objective and subjective clinical assessments. Results: Data suggested a three-factorial structure of the questionnaire into expectations about future symptoms, change in current health status, and rigidity of these expectations. The questionnaire showed good psychometric properties and strong associations with the other considered outcomes, including implicit expectations. The implicit evaluation, however, lacked test–retest reliability. Conclusion: The questionnaire is a valid tool to assess illness expectations in people with asthma. The two expectation scales are highly related, and the implicit expectations are moderately associated with the explicit ones. The lack of stability related to IAT results may reflect a lack of stability of the implicit expectations. The implications for the mind/body framework still need to be fully explored.
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- 2022
24. Experiences of psychological interventions in neurodegenerative diseases: a systematic review and thematic synthesis
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Pinto, C., Geraghty, A. W. A., Mcloughlin, C., Pagnini, Francesco, Yardley, L., Dennison, L., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Pinto, C., Geraghty, A. W. A., Mcloughlin, C., Pagnini, Francesco, Yardley, L., Dennison, L., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Background: Psychological interventions for managing emotional distress in neurodegenerative diseases are needed, but progressive worsening of symptoms and increasing disability might pose difficulties with engagement. We aimed to synthesise the experiences of engaging with and using psychological interventions in neurodegenerative diseases and identify relevant barriers and facilitators. Methods: Systematic searches were conducted in six electronic databases and results were screened. We included qualitative and mixed methods studies reporting patient or caregivers’ views or experiences of psychological interventions. Qualitative data were extracted and thematically synthesised. Results: 34 papers were included, covering a range of diseases and interventions. Engagement was facilitated by flexible intervention formats and tailoring to the specific needs of people with neurodegenerative diseases. Interventions were sometimes inaccessible or burdensome because of physical and cognitive symptoms, and the time and effort required for the intervention. Participants’ levels of acceptance and readiness often differed and influenced engagement with the intervention. Across different interventions, participants experienced wide-ranging benefits including changes in insight, perspective, self-efficacy, emotions and relationships. Conclusion: Although people with neurodegenerative diseases and caregivers experience benefits from psychological interventions, burden-reducing adaptations and sensitive tailoring to the specific disease context is required to improve acceptability and engagement.
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- 2022
25. An online non-meditative mindfulness intervention for people with ALS and their caregivers: a randomized controlled trial
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Pagnini, Francesco, Phillips, Deborah, Haulman, A., Bankert, M., Simmons, Z., Langer, E., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Phillips D., Pagnini, Francesco, Phillips, Deborah, Haulman, A., Bankert, M., Simmons, Z., Langer, E., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Phillips D.
- Abstract
Objectives: Mindfulness-based interventions seem to be effective in promoting QOL of ALS patients and caregivers, but most require substantial time. In the Langerian approach, mindfulness can be easily promoted with mental tasks and short lectures. This study aims to explore the impact of an ALS-specific online Langerian mindfulness training program on QOL of ALS patients. Methods: We developed and tested with an Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) a 5-week active learning mindfulness program. Participants were recruited from the ALS clinic at Penn State Health and online and were randomly assigned to either the mindfulness group or a wait-list control group. The primary outcome was the patient’s QOL after the treatment. 3 and 6-month follow-ups, together with anxiety, depression, care burden, and physical function, assessed at all times for both patients and caregivers, were explored as secondary outcomes. Results: 47 ALS patients and 27 caregivers were recruited. Among the ALS patients, the experimental group reported higher levels of QOL at the end of the treatment (d = 0.54). Moreover, they showed lower values of depression, anxiety, and negative emotions, compared to the controls, over time. The caregivers from the mindfulness group reported lower scores of care burden, depression, and anxiety, with higher values of energy and emotional well-being over time. Conclusions: This small RCT provides preliminary evidence that this intervention leads to an increase of QOL and a reduction in psychological comorbidities in ALS patients and caregivers. Given the relatively short time commitment, it may be easily implemented by the ALS community.
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- 2022
26. Psychoeducational groups for people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and their caregiver: a qualitative study
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Bilenchi, V. A., Banfi, P., Pagnini, Francesco, Volpato, Eleonora, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Bilenchi, V. A., Banfi, P., Pagnini, Francesco, Volpato, Eleonora, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386)
- Abstract
Objective: The current study aimed to describe the implementation of a structured psychoeducational intervention in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), identifying the needs of both patients and their caregivers. Methods: Five patients and thirteen caregivers attended eight psychoeducational group meetings at the Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit of IRCCS Santa Maria Nascente of Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan (Italy) and eight participants underwent semi-structured interviews once the group sessions ended. Group sessions and semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Then, data obtained by group meetings’ transcripts have been analysed using the grounded theory (GT) paradigm, while those obtained by interviews have been analysed using the interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Results: The analysis of the meetings allowed us to identify seven main themes: “practical advice”, “explanation of the pathology”, “recognition of emotions”, “adaptation”, “family and relationships”, “being caregiver of oneself”, and “sharing”. Twenty-one sub-themes also emerged from the transcripts’ analysis. The analysis of the interviews allowed us to deduce the main reasons to participate (i.e., to have information and to be able to share experiences), the positive and negative aspects of the experiences. These results suggested the usefulness of psychoeducational groups in the regular clinical practise to allow patients and caregivers to share advice, emotions, and experiences with others in the same situation. Conclusions: This study displays the utility of psychoeducational group intervention in supporting people with ALS and their caregivers because of two main reasons: first for the psychoeducation provided by professionals; second for the possibility of sharing experiences and emotions with people in the same situation.
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- 2022
27. Curcumin Modulates Nitrosative Stress, Inflammation, and DNA Damage and Protects against Ochratoxin A-Induced Hepatotoxicity and Nephrotoxicity in Rats
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Longobardi C, Damiano S, Andretta E, Prisco F, Russo V, Pagnini F, Florio S, Ciarcia R., Longobardi, C, Damiano, S, Andretta, E, Prisco, F, Russo, V, Pagnini, F, Florio, S, and Ciarcia, R.
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hepatotoxicity ,inflammation ,nephrotoxicity ,nitrosative stre ,DNA damage ,ochratoxin A - Abstract
Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a fungal toxin of critical concern for food safety both for human health and several animal species, also representing a cancer threat to humans. Curcumin (CURC) is a natural polyphenol that has anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the cytoprotective effect of CURC against OTA-induced nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity through the study of the nitrosative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage. Sprague Dawley rats were daily treated with CURC (100 mg/kg b.w.), OTA (0.5 mg/kg b.w), or CURC with OTA by oral gavage for 14 days. Our results demonstrated that OTA exposure was associated with significant increase of pro-inflammatory and DNA oxidative-damage biomarkers. Moreover, OTA induced the inducible nitric oxide synthase, (iNOS) resulting in increased nitric oxide (NO) levels both in kidney and liver. The co-treatment OTA + CURC counteracted the harmful effects of chronic OTA treatment by regulating inflammation, reducing NO levels and oxidative DNA damage in kidney and liver tissues. Histology revealed that OTA + CURC treatment determinates mainly an Iba1+ macrophagic infiltration with fewer CD3+ T-lymphocytes in the tissues. In conclusion, we evidenced that CURC exerted cytoprotective and antioxidant activities against OTA-induced toxicity in rats.
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- 2021
28. Potential Approaches Versus Approved or Developing Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Therapy
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Andretta E, Costa C, Longobardi C, Damiano S, Giordano A, Pagnini F, Montagnaro S, Quintiliani M, Lauritano C, Ciarcia R., Andretta, E, Costa, C, Longobardi, C, Damiano, S, Giordano, A, Pagnini, F, Montagnaro, S, Quintiliani, M, Lauritano, C, and Ciarcia, R.
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antioxidant ,chronic myeloid leukemia ,oncolytic therapy ,exosome ,marine organism ,Non-BCR-ABL targeted drug ,tyrosine kinase inhibitors ,quiescent leukemia stem cell - Abstract
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have revolutionized the treatment of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However, continued use of these inhibitors has contributed to the increase in clinical resistance and the persistence of resistant leukemic stem cells (LSCs). So, there is an urgent need to introduce additional targeted and selective therapies to eradicate quiescent LSCs, and to avoid the relapse and disease progression. Here, we focused on emerging BCR-ABL targeted and non-BCR-ABL targeted drugs employed in clinical trials and on alternative CML treatments, including antioxidants, oncolytic virus, engineered exosomes, and natural products obtained from marine organisms that could pave the way for new therapeutic approaches for CML patients.
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- 2021
29. The illness perceptions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a qualitative study.
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Volpato, E., Pozzar, M., Valota, C., Banfi, P., Pagnini, F., Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Volpato, E., Pozzar, M., Valota, C., Banfi, P., Pagnini, F., Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Introduction: A few studies have explored the illness perceptions as well as the mutual connection between respiratory and physical status and emotional experiences in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Aims and objectives: The main aim was to investigate the illness perceptions of people affected by COPD. Secondarily, beliefs about the connection between mind and respiratory symptoms were explored. Methods: A qualitative study using ad hoc semi-structured interviews, based on the framework approach of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, was carried out at the Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit of Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan (Italy) between February and June 2018. Results: Twenty-seven participants with mild to severe COPD (15 males and 12 females; Mean Age= 72.37, SD= 9.44) were involved. The thematic analysis resulted in four master themes: “illness experience”, “mind-body relationship”, “expertise”, and “future”. The major concern reported by participants was that of limitation, which contributed to their housebound and fears. These issues, together with feelings of anxiety, sadness, annoyance and nervousness, inspire to existential themes and the possible future implications. Conclusions: COPD participants believe in a strong and negative link between mind and body, whose impact on rehabilitation process, respiratory outcomes and health-related behaviours should be study further.
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- 2019
30. Online meditation training for people with multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial
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Cavalera, C., Rovaris, M., Mendozzi, L., Pugnetti, L., Garegnani, M., Castelnuovo, G., Molinari, E., Pagnini, F., Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Castelnuovo G. (ORCID:0000-0003-2633-9822), Molinari E. (ORCID:0000-0001-8132-694X), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Cavalera, C., Rovaris, M., Mendozzi, L., Pugnetti, L., Garegnani, M., Castelnuovo, G., Molinari, E., Pagnini, F., Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Castelnuovo G. (ORCID:0000-0003-2633-9822), Molinari E. (ORCID:0000-0001-8132-694X), and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) has a relevant impact on quality of life (QOL) and is associated with increased risks of psychological morbidity. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are among the most studied interventions, although few well-conducted studies have tested them in this field. Furthermore, the participation in typical MBIs may be impaired by time and logistics. Objective: We aimed to test the efficacy of an online MBI to improve QOL, psychological well-being, sleep, and fatigue. Methods: We conducted a randomized controlled trial, in which 139 participants were randomly assigned to an MS-specific online mindfulness meditation intervention or to a psychoeducational (active control) group. Participants were assessed for QOL, depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and fatigue, at three different times: at recruitment, after 2 months, and after 6 months. Results: In comparison to the control group, the experimental subjects reported higher QOL and lower depression, anxiety, and sleep problems at the end of intervention. However, after 6 months these group differences were no longer significant. Conclusion: An online MBI could be an effective psychological treatment for the promotion of well-being in MS in short-term. However, the lack of lasting effects requires the development of new strategies to support long-term changes.
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- 2019
31. Predictive factors of volumetric reduction in lumbar disc herniation treated by O2-o3 chemiodiscolysis
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Negro A, Paolucci A., Russo C., Di Stasi M., Guerriero P., Arrigoni F., Bruno F., Pagnini F. g, Angileri S. A., Palumbo P., Masciocchi C., Puoti G., Tortora F., Caranci F., Negro, A, Paolucci, A., Russo, C., Di Stasi, M., Guerriero, P., Arrigoni, F., Bruno, F., Pagnini, F. g., Angileri, S. A., Palumbo, P., Masciocchi, C., Puoti, G., Tortora, F., and Caranci, F.
- Abstract
Purpose: Aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of O2-O3 percutaneous chemiodiscolysis by evaluating volumetric changes in lumbar disc herniation on magnetic resonance imaging, in order to identify possible pre-treatment factors affecting such changes Methods: Between January 2014 and December 2017, a total of 87 patients with low back pain and 103 lumbar disc herniations with MRI confirmation were considered for O2-O3 chemiodiscolysis. The volume of each herniated disc was determined before and after the treatment. Results: Multiple linear regression analysis showed a strong correlation between post-treatment LDH volume percent change and both pre-treatment LDH volume and pre-treatment EQ-VAS (p
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- 2020
32. Age-based stereotype threat: a scoping review of stereotype priming techniques and their effects on the aging process
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Vailati Riboni, F., primary and Pagnini, F., additional
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- 2021
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33. INTERAZIONE CINEMATICA PALO-TERRENO IN PRESENZA DI STRATI LIQUEFACIBILI: ANALISI FEM VS. METODI SEMPLIFICATI
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Pagnini, F., Stacul, S., and Squeglia, N.
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- 2021
34. Fears, beliefs, and quality of life of patients with cancer vs the general population during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Lombardy
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Ripamonti, Carla Ida, Massa, G., Insolvibile, D., Guglielmo, M., Miccinesi, Guido, Regalia, Camillo, Saita, Emanuela, Pagnini, Francesco, Ripamonti C. I., Miccinesi G., Regalia C. (ORCID:0000-0001-6888-0719), Saita E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0790-2819), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Ripamonti, Carla Ida, Massa, G., Insolvibile, D., Guglielmo, M., Miccinesi, Guido, Regalia, Camillo, Saita, Emanuela, Pagnini, Francesco, Ripamonti C. I., Miccinesi G., Regalia C. (ORCID:0000-0001-6888-0719), Saita E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0790-2819), and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Aim: To understand how patients with cancer reacted to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and whether their quality of life (QoL) was affected. Methods: In June 2020, 111 patients with cancer treated in the supportive care unit of a Comprehensive Cancer Center in Milan and 201 healthy controls from the general population were enrolled and assessed both quantitatively and qualitatively for fears and COVID-19–related beliefs as well as for QoL. Results: Fear of COVID-19 was significantly lower among patients (41% vs 57.6%; p = 0.007), as was fear of cancer (61.5% vs 85.6%; p < 0.001) and other diseases. The perceived risk of getting COVID-19 was lower among patients (25.2% vs 52.7%; p < 0.001), as was the belief of having been exposed to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (18.1% vs 40.8%; p < 0.001). The physical component of QoL was better among the population (54.5 vs 43.8; p < 0.001); the reverse was true for patients’ psychological well-being (44.6 vs 39.6; p < 0.001). The qualitative data supported such results, showing a reduced psychological effect on the patients with cancer compared to the controls. Various reasons explain this result, including the awareness of being treated for cancer and nevertheless protected against getting infected in a cancer center of public health reorganized to continue treating patients by protecting them and personnel from the risk of infection. Conclusions: The experience of a cancer diagnosis, together with proper hospital reorganization, may act as protective factors from fears and psychological consequences of the COVID-19 outbreak.
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- 2021
35. Psychotherapists’ emotional reactions to patients’ personality trait in personality disorder treatment settings: an exploratory study
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Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Boldrini, A., Merelli, A. A., Squillari, E., Politi, P., Pagnini, Francesco, Oasi, Osmano, Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Oasi O. (ORCID:0000-0003-2134-397X), Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Boldrini, A., Merelli, A. A., Squillari, E., Politi, P., Pagnini, Francesco, Oasi, Osmano, Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Oasi O. (ORCID:0000-0003-2134-397X)
- Abstract
Background: Therapist’s emotional reactions toward patients in clinical facilities are a key concept in the treatment of personality disorders. Considering only clinical settings specialized in treatment of personality pathology the present paper aimed at: (1) assessing any direct relationship between patient symptom severity and therapist emotional response; (2) exploring patients’ functioning configurations that can be associated with specific therapist reactions (3) investigating whether these relationships remains significant when accounting for other setting variables related to patients or therapist. Methods: The present study included 43 outpatients with personality disorders who underwent a psychotherapy treatment in two Italian facilities dedicated to outpatients with personality disorders and their 19 psychotherapists. The Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90R) was used to explore clinical severity condition. Psychotherapists completed the Therapist Response Questionnaire (TRQ) to identify pattern of therapists’ response and the Shedler-Westen Assessment Procedure-200 (SWAP-200) in order to assess personality traits of the patients. Results: No significant relationship between the clinical severity of the symptoms and the therapist’ responses was found. Even when controlled for clinical severity condition, duration of the treatment, age and educational level of the patient or years of therapist experience, most of SWAP-200 traits appeared to be significant predictors of therapist’ emotional responses. Conclusions: The present study confirms the value of therapists’ emotional response as a useful tool in understanding psychological processes related to clinical practice highlighting its context-dependent dimension.
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- 2021
36. Patients’ perceptions of surgery for inflammatory bowel disease
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Spinelli, A., Carvello, M., Adamina, M., Panis, Y., Warusavitarne, J., Tulchinsky, H., Bemelman, W. A., Kotze, P. G., D'Hoore, A., Lastikova, L., Danese, S., Peyrin-Biroulet, L., Avedano, L., Pagnini, Francesco, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Spinelli, A., Carvello, M., Adamina, M., Panis, Y., Warusavitarne, J., Tulchinsky, H., Bemelman, W. A., Kotze, P. G., D'Hoore, A., Lastikova, L., Danese, S., Peyrin-Biroulet, L., Avedano, L., Pagnini, Francesco, and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Aim: Surgery is indicated in selected patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, due to a negative perception, surgery may be delayed, leading to possible unfavourable outcomes. The aim of this work was to investigate patients’ perceptions of surgery and the impact on reported outcomes. Method: An international multilingual online survey was used to query IBD patients’ experiences of surgery, information sources, expectations and concerns, quality of life (QoL) and feelings. Results: The survey was completed by 425 of 510 participants. Crohn's disease was more frequent (61%) than ulcerative colitis (36%). Most patients primarily learned about surgery from their gastroenterologist and were informed of the risks and benefits by the surgeon. In almost one-third of patients indication for surgery was not a shared decision between gastroenterologist and surgeon. Seventy per cent of patients naïve to surgery were not aware of any surgical options. The majority of patients (80%) perceived surgery as the last option after many medical treatments rather than an alternative therapeutic option (20%). Sixteen per cent of patients obtained their primary information from the Internet, while 82.4% used the Internet to obtain additional information. Fear of surgical complications was cited by 73% of patients, while relief from symptoms was indicated by 31%. Most patients coped with their stoma better than expected or as they expected. Negative feelings decreased after surgery, while a lasting improvement in positive feelings and QoL was reported. Conclusion: Despite the negative perception of surgery and the delayed involvement of surgeons as a source of information and in the decision-making process, the majority of respondents experienced positive outcomes from surgery, including improvement QoL and acceptance of the stoma.
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- 2021
37. Age-based stereotype threat: a scoping review of stereotype priming techniques and their effects on the aging process
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Vailati Riboni, Francesco Carlo Paolo, Pagnini, Francesco, Vailati Riboni F., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Vailati Riboni, Francesco Carlo Paolo, Pagnini, Francesco, Vailati Riboni F., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Objectives: In the current study, we reviewed and classified the different experimental methods reported in the literature to induce age-base stereotype threat in older adults, providing a comprehensive view of the methodologies present in the literature to date. Method: The current study has been developed as a literature scoping review. The PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and CINAHL database were searched. With this approach, we assessed developments in experimental age-based stereotype manipulations in the last decades. Results: 26 articles were considered for this scoping review. Through a thematic analysis, we classified the papers into three broad categories based on the priming technique addressed: manipulation by instructions, manipulation by tests and, manipulation by mental imagery. Conclusion: Our results seem to suggest how manipulations by instructions appeared to be more largely used and capable of producing more clear performance variations on cognitive, memory, and physical tasks. Age-related stereotypes showed potentially stronger effects when they are negative, implicit, and temporally closer to the test of performance.
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- 2021
38. Regenerative Virtual Therapy: The Use of Multisensory Technologies and Mindful Attention for Updating the Altered Representations of the Bodily Self
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Riva, Giuseppe, Serino, Silvia, Di Lernia, Daniele, Pagnini, Francesco, Riva G. (ORCID:0000-0003-3657-106X), Serino S. (ORCID:0000-0002-8422-1358), Di Lernia D. (ORCID:0000-0001-6850-6866), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Riva, Giuseppe, Serino, Silvia, Di Lernia, Daniele, Pagnini, Francesco, Riva G. (ORCID:0000-0003-3657-106X), Serino S. (ORCID:0000-0002-8422-1358), Di Lernia D. (ORCID:0000-0001-6850-6866), and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
The term “regenerative medicine” (RM) indicates an emerging trend in biomedical sciences that aims at replacing, engineering, or regenerating human cells, tissues, or organs to restore or establish normal function. So far, the focus of RM has been the physical body. Neuroscience, however, is now suggesting that mental disorders can be broadly characterized by a dysfunction in the way the brain computes and integrates the representations of the inner and outer body across time [bodily self-consciousness (BSC)]. In this perspective, we proposed a new kind of clinical intervention, i.e., “Regenerative Virtual Therapy” (RVT), which integrates knowledge from different disciplines, from neuroscience to computational psychiatry, to regenerate a distorted or faulty BSC. The main goal of RVT was to use technology-based somatic modification techniques to restructure the maladaptive bodily representations behind a pathological condition. Specifically, starting from a Bayesian model of our BSC (i.e., body matrix), we suggested the use of mindful attention, cognitive reappraisal, and brain stimulation techniques merged with high-rewarding and novel synthetic multisensory bodily experience (i.e., a virtual reality full-body illusion in sync with a low predictabIlity interoceptive modulation) to rewrite a faulty experience of the body and to regenerate the wellbeing of an individual. The use of RVT will also offer an unprecedented experimental overview of the dynamics of our bodily representations, allowing the reverse-engineering of their functioning for hacking them using advanced technologies.
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- 2021
39. The evolution of IBD perceived engagement and care needs across the life-cycle: a scoping review
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Volpato, Eleonora, Bosio, C., Previtali, E., Leone, Sabrina, Armuzzi, Alessandro, Pagnini, Francesco, Graffigna, Guendalina, Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Leone S., Armuzzi A. (ORCID:0000-0003-1572-0118), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Graffigna G. (ORCID:0000-0003-4378-7467), Volpato, Eleonora, Bosio, C., Previtali, E., Leone, Sabrina, Armuzzi, Alessandro, Pagnini, Francesco, Graffigna, Guendalina, Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Leone S., Armuzzi A. (ORCID:0000-0003-1572-0118), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Graffigna G. (ORCID:0000-0003-4378-7467)
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Background: The chronic and progressive evolution of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), with its prototypical fluctuating trend, creates a condition of psycho-social discomfort, impacting the quality of life in terms of personal, working, and interpersonal. Aims: In this article, we want to identify the nature and extent of the research evidence on the life experiences, the perceived engagement, the psychological, social care and welfare needs of people affected by IBD across the lifecycle. Methods: Following the approach set out by Arksey and O’Malley and the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews, we conducted a scoping review in March 2019 and closed the review with an update in October 2019. It was performed using electronic databases covering Health and Life Sciences, Social Sciences and Medical Sciences, such as PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, Web of Science, PsycInfo. Results: We identified 95 peer-reviewed articles published from 2009 to 2019, that allowed to detection the main needs in children (psychological, need to be accepted, physical activity, feeding, parent style, support, social needs), adolescents (to understand, physical and psychological needs, protection, relational, gratitude, respect, and engagement) and adults (information, medical, psychological, social, work-related, practical, future-related, engagement). Although the literature confirms that the majority of the IBD units have planned provision for the different types of transitions, the quality and appropriateness of these services have not been assessed or audited for all the kinds of challenges across the life cycle. Conclusions: The literature shows the relevance of organizing a flexible, personalized health care process across all the critical phases of the life cycle, providing adequate benchmarks for comparison in a multidisciplinary perspective and ensuring continuity between hospital and territory.
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- 2021
40. The relationship between anxiety, depression and treatment adherence in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review
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Volpato, Eleonora, Toniolo, S., Pagnini, Francesco, Banfi, P., Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Volpato, Eleonora, Toniolo, S., Pagnini, Francesco, Banfi, P., Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Background: Almost half of the people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) do not adhere to the prescribed treatments and report anxiety and depression as comorbidities, resulting in higher rates of exacerbations, hospitalizations, and worse clinical outcomes. Objective: This systematic review provided a synthesis of studies about the relationships between anxiety, depression, and adherence in people affected by COPD. Methods: English language publications were searched in the PUBMED, SCOPUS, PsycInfo, Web of Science, PsycArticles, and Cochrane Library databases from December 2020 to March 2021, following PRISMA guidelines. The reference lists of eligible studies and other relevant systematic reviews were also searched. Data extraction and critical appraisal were undertaken by two reviewers working independently. The reference lists of eligible studies and other relevant systematic reviews were also searched. Data extraction and critical appraisal were undertaken by two reviewers working independently. Results: A total of 34 studies (23 quantitative and 2 qualitative studies, 9 reviews) were included. The relationship between depression and treatment adherence was significant and negative. Adherence to both rehabilitation, psychological, and antidepressant pharmacological treatments in depressed patients was linked to a decreased risk of hospitalization. Moreover, depressed patients compliant with an antidepressant were more likely to adherent to COPD maintenance inhalers. On the other hand, the associations between anxiety and adherence were poorly investigated and high heterogeneity characterized the studies, leading to a weak and variable relationship as well as too few interventions. Conclusion: The systematic review highlights the variability in estimates of the relationship between depression, anxiety, and treatment adherence in COPD. It could be explained by meth-odological differences across the included studies. This suggests that standardizati
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- 2021
41. Mindfully Reframing the Psychological Impact of the COVID-19 Outbreak Through a Social Media Community for Students: A Pragmatic Study
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Pagnini, Francesco, Bonalda, E., Montrasi, E., Toselli, E., Antonietti, Alessandro, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Antonietti A. (ORCID:0000-0002-7212-8076), Pagnini, Francesco, Bonalda, E., Montrasi, E., Toselli, E., Antonietti, Alessandro, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), and Antonietti A. (ORCID:0000-0002-7212-8076)
- Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak and the restrictions that have been enforced by the health authorities are having a profound psychological impact on the population. Many people, including the students, faced forced modifications to their daily lives and this prompted the need for scalable strategies to promote resilience. We designed an online community intervention for psychology students and recent alumni aimed to promote functional coping strategies through openness and cognitive flexibility. This psycho-educational intervention was delivered through a private group on social media (Facebook) during the acute phase of the lockdown period and it involved the publication of exercises and quick lectures. Contents were posted regularly and members of the community were invited to share their comments. The posts included stimuli that promote open and flexible reflections on the current situation. The overall aim of this group was a cognitive reframing on the epidemic effects, promoting creative and flexible thinking. We ran a thematic analysis of the interactions and we collected qualitative feedback at the end of the intervention. The participants' comments dealt with changes in their perspectives, sharing discomfort, encouragement and support, and building a sense of community. Post-intervention comments were highly satisfied and confirmed the helpfulness of the intervention to promote flexibility and openness, eventually helping to manage the negative emotions related to the COVID-19 outbreak. This study provides preliminary evidence that an online psycho-educational community stimulating flexibility and openness can help to reframe the negative psychological impact of the outbreak, improving their management.
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- 2021
42. Age-based stereotype threat: a scoping review of stereotype priming techniques and their effects on the aging process.
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Vailati Riboni, F. and Pagnini, F.
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ONLINE information services ,PSYCHOLOGY information storage & retrieval systems ,CINAHL database ,SYSTEMATIC reviews ,ATTITUDES toward aging ,STEREOTYPES ,AGING ,MEDLINE ,THEMATIC analysis - Abstract
Objectives: In the current study, we reviewed and classified the different experimental methods reported in the literature to induce age-base stereotype threat in older adults, providing a comprehensive view of the methodologies present in the literature to date. Method: The current study has been developed as a literature scoping review. The PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and CINAHL database were searched. With this approach, we assessed developments in experimental age-based stereotype manipulations in the last decades. Results: 26 articles were considered for this scoping review. Through a thematic analysis, we classified the papers into three broad categories based on the priming technique addressed: manipulation by instructions, manipulation by tests and, manipulation by mental imagery. Conclusion: Our results seem to suggest how manipulations by instructions appeared to be more largely used and capable of producing more clear performance variations on cognitive, memory, and physical tasks. Age-related stereotypes showed potentially stronger effects when they are negative, implicit, and temporally closer to the test of performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2022
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43. Mindfulness-Based Interventions for the Improvement of Well-Being in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
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Carletto, S., Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Sadowski, I., Rovaris, M., Borghi, Margherita, Khoury, B., Ostacoli, L., Pagnini, Francesco, Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Borghi M., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Carletto, S., Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Sadowski, I., Rovaris, M., Borghi, Margherita, Khoury, B., Ostacoli, L., Pagnini, Francesco, Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Borghi M., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
Objective The study aims to meta-analytically review studies about the effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on well-being of people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods Seven electronic databases were searched from June 2018 to September 2018. A systematic review and a meta-analysis were conducted. Results Twenty-one studies were included in qualitative synthesis, and 10 studies were included in meta-analysis. MBIs are effective with an overall moderate effect size (Hedges' g = 0.70) in improving well-being in people with MS, with lasting effects at the follow-up (g = 0.55). In particular, MBIs demonstrated to highly reduce stress (g = 1.07) and to improve depression and anxiety symptoms with a moderate to large effect at postintervention (g = 0.77 and g = 0.63, respectively). Conclusions MBIs represent a valid and effective mind-body intervention to improve the well-being of patients with MS. Further studies should investigate which components of MBIs could be more beneficial for patients with progressive MS. PROSPERO registration CRD42018099704.
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- 2020
44. Mindful Age and Technology: a Qualitative Analysis of a Tablet/Smartphone App Intervention Designed for Older Adults
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Vailati Riboni, Francesco Carlo Paolo, Sadowski, I., Comazzi, B., Pagnini, Francesco, Vailati Riboni F., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Vailati Riboni, Francesco Carlo Paolo, Sadowski, I., Comazzi, B., Pagnini, Francesco, Vailati Riboni F., and Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211)
- Abstract
The global population is aging while modern healthcare systems are responding with limited success to the growing care demands of the senior population. Capitalizing on recent technological advancements, new ways to improve older adults’ quality of life have recently been implemented. The current study investigated, from a qualitative point of view, the utility of a mindfulness-based smartphone application for older adults. A description of the older adults’ experience with the smartphone application designed to enhance well-being and mindfulness will be presented. Participants’general beliefs about the benefits of technology for personal well-being will also be discussed. 68 older adults were recruited from different education centers for seniors. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: a) a treatment group, which received the smartphone application intervention (n = 34), or b) a waitlist control group (n = 34). The experimental intervention included the utilization of a smartphone app designed specifically for improving older adult well-being and mindfulness levels. Participants completed semi-structured interviews evaluating participants’ treatment experience and technology-acceptance at recruitment (T0, baseline) and post-intervention (T1, post-intervention). Through thematic analysis, four themes were identified from verbatim responses of both interviews: Utility of technology for health, Impressions of technology, Mindful-benefits of smartphone application usage, and Smartphone application usage as a means to improve interpersonal relationships. Participants showed a positive experience of the app intervention. Qualitative analysis underlined the main Mindfulness-benefits reported by participants and the potentially crucial role of “Langerian” mindfulness in the relationship between older adults and health technology.
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- 2020
45. COVID Feel Good—An Easy Self-Help Virtual Reality Protocol to Overcome the Psychological Burden of Coronavirus
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Riva, Giuseppe, Bernardelli, L., Browning, M. H. E. M., Castelnuovo, Gianluca, Cavedoni, S., Chirico, Alice, Cipresso, Pietro, de Paula, D. M. B., Di Lernia, Daniele, Fernandez-Alvarez, J., Figueras-Puigderrajols, N., Fuji, K., Gaggioli, Andrea, Gutierrez-Maldonado, J., Hong, U., Mancuso, V., Mazzeo, M., Molinari, Enrico, Moretti, L. F., Ortiz de Gortari, A. B., Pagnini, Francesco, Pedroli, E., Repetto, Claudia, Sforza, F., Stramba-Badiale, C., Tuena, Cosimo, Malighetti, Clelia, Villani, Daniela, Wiederhold, B. K., Riva G. (ORCID:0000-0003-3657-106X), Castelnuovo G. (ORCID:0000-0003-2633-9822), Chirico A. (ORCID:0000-0002-4587-0232), Cipresso P. (ORCID:0000-0002-0662-7678), Di Lernia D. (ORCID:0000-0001-6850-6866), Gaggioli A. (ORCID:0000-0001-7818-7598), Molinari E. (ORCID:0000-0001-8132-694X), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Repetto C. (ORCID:0000-0001-8365-7697), Tuena C., Malighetti C. (ORCID:0000-0002-1321-8784), Villani D. (ORCID:0000-0002-2435-4036), Riva, Giuseppe, Bernardelli, L., Browning, M. H. E. M., Castelnuovo, Gianluca, Cavedoni, S., Chirico, Alice, Cipresso, Pietro, de Paula, D. M. B., Di Lernia, Daniele, Fernandez-Alvarez, J., Figueras-Puigderrajols, N., Fuji, K., Gaggioli, Andrea, Gutierrez-Maldonado, J., Hong, U., Mancuso, V., Mazzeo, M., Molinari, Enrico, Moretti, L. F., Ortiz de Gortari, A. B., Pagnini, Francesco, Pedroli, E., Repetto, Claudia, Sforza, F., Stramba-Badiale, C., Tuena, Cosimo, Malighetti, Clelia, Villani, Daniela, Wiederhold, B. K., Riva G. (ORCID:0000-0003-3657-106X), Castelnuovo G. (ORCID:0000-0003-2633-9822), Chirico A. (ORCID:0000-0002-4587-0232), Cipresso P. (ORCID:0000-0002-0662-7678), Di Lernia D. (ORCID:0000-0001-6850-6866), Gaggioli A. (ORCID:0000-0001-7818-7598), Molinari E. (ORCID:0000-0001-8132-694X), Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Repetto C. (ORCID:0000-0001-8365-7697), Tuena C., Malighetti C. (ORCID:0000-0002-1321-8784), and Villani D. (ORCID:0000-0002-2435-4036)
- Abstract
Background: Living in the time of the COVID-19 means experiencing not only a global health emergency but also extreme psychological stress with potential emotional side effects such as sadness, grief, irritability, and mood swings. Crucially, lockdown and confinement measures isolate people who become the first and the only ones in charge of their own mental health: people are left alone facing a novel and potentially lethal situation, and, at the same time, they need to develop adaptive strategies to face it, at home. In this view, easy-to-use, inexpensive, and scientifically validated self-help solutions aiming to reduce the psychological burden of coronavirus are extremely necessary. Aims: This pragmatic trial aims to provide the evidence that a weekly self-help virtual reality (VR) protocol can help overcome the psychological burden of the Coronavirus by relieving anxiety, improving well-being, and reinforcing social connectedness. The protocol will be based on the “Secret Garden” 360 VR video online (www.covidfeelgood.com) which simulates a natural environment aiming to promote relaxation and self-reflection. Three hundred sixty–degree or spherical videos allow the user to control the viewing direction. In this way, the user can explore the content from any angle like a panorama and experience presence and immersion. The “Secret Garden” video is combined with daily exercises that are designed to be experienced with another person (not necessarily physically together), to facilitate a process of critical examination and eventual revision of core assumptions and beliefs related to personal identity, relationships, and goals. Methods: This is a multicentric, pragmatic pilot randomized controlled trial involving individuals who experienced the COVID-19 pandemic and underwent a lockdown and quarantine procedures. The trial is approved by the Ethics Committee of the Istituto Auxologico Italiano. Each research group in all the countries joining the pragmatic tria
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- 2020
46. Knowledge, Concerns, and Behaviors of Individuals During the First Week of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic in Italy
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Pagnini, Francesco, Bonanomi, Andrea, Tagliabue, Semira, Balconi, Michela, Bertolotti, Mauro Maria, Confalonieri, Emanuela, Di Dio, Cinzia, Gilli, Gabriella, Graffigna, Guendalina, Regalia, Camillo, Saita, Emanuela, Villani, Daniela, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Bonanomi A. (ORCID:0000-0003-2857-1430), Tagliabue S. (ORCID:0000-0002-3331-4781), Balconi M. (ORCID:0000-0002-8634-1951), Bertolotti M. (ORCID:0000-0003-0079-1642), Confalonieri E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0921-1739), Di Dio C. (ORCID:0000-0002-3962-4684), Gilli G. (ORCID:0000-0002-9889-107X), Graffigna G. (ORCID:0000-0003-4378-7467), Regalia C. (ORCID:0000-0001-6888-0719), Saita E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0790-2819), Villani D. (ORCID:0000-0002-2435-4036), Pagnini, Francesco, Bonanomi, Andrea, Tagliabue, Semira, Balconi, Michela, Bertolotti, Mauro Maria, Confalonieri, Emanuela, Di Dio, Cinzia, Gilli, Gabriella, Graffigna, Guendalina, Regalia, Camillo, Saita, Emanuela, Villani, Daniela, Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Bonanomi A. (ORCID:0000-0003-2857-1430), Tagliabue S. (ORCID:0000-0002-3331-4781), Balconi M. (ORCID:0000-0002-8634-1951), Bertolotti M. (ORCID:0000-0003-0079-1642), Confalonieri E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0921-1739), Di Dio C. (ORCID:0000-0002-3962-4684), Gilli G. (ORCID:0000-0002-9889-107X), Graffigna G. (ORCID:0000-0003-4378-7467), Regalia C. (ORCID:0000-0001-6888-0719), Saita E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0790-2819), and Villani D. (ORCID:0000-0002-2435-4036)
- Abstract
Importance: At the beginning of a public health crisis, such as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, it is important to collect information about people's knowledge, worries, and behaviors to examine their influence on quality of life and to understand individual characteristics associated with these reactions. Such information could help to guide health authorities in providing informed interventions and clear communications. Objectives: To document the initial knowledge about COVID-19 and recommended health behaviors; to assess worries (ie, one's perception of the influence of the worries of others on oneself), social appraisal, and preventive behaviors, comparing respondents from areas under different movement restrictions during the first week after the outbreak; and to understand how worries, perceived risk, and preventive behaviors were associated with quality of life and individual characteristics among Italian adults. Design, Setting, and Participants: This convenience sample, nonprobablistic survey study recruited adult participants with a snowballing sampling method in any Italian region during the first week of the COVID-19 outbreak in Italy from February 26, 2020, to March 4, 2020. Data were analyzed from March 5 to 12, 2020. Exposures: Information was collected from citizens living in the quarantine zone (ie, red zone), area with restricted movements (ie, yellow zone), and COVID-19-free regions (ie, green zone). Main Outcomes and Measures: Levels of knowledge on the virus, contagion-related worries, social appraisal, and preventive behaviors were assessed with ratings of quality of life (measured using the Short Form Health Survey). Additionally, some individual characteristics that may be associated with worries and behaviors were assessed, including demographic characteristics, personality traits (measured using Big Five Inventory-10), perceived health control (measured using the internal control measure in the Health Locus of Control sca
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- 2020
47. Illness expectations predict the development of influenza-like symptoms over the winter season
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Pagnini, Francesco, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Volpato, Eleonora, Banfi, P., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386), Pagnini, Francesco, Cavalera, Cesare Massimo, Volpato, Eleonora, Banfi, P., Pagnini F. (ORCID:0000-0003-1612-4211), Cavalera C. (ORCID:0000-0001-9309-0874), and Volpato E. (ORCID:0000-0003-0266-6386)
- Abstract
Objective: This study explores the hypothesis that cognitive expectations of catching influenza-like symptoms increase the chances of developing the symptoms over the winter season. Design: Self-reported data from 247 healthy volunteers were obtained twice, before and after the winter season. In the first assessment, expectations about developing influenza-like symptoms in the incoming months were charted. This data was matched with a post-winter assessment of the actual development of the symptoms. Results: The odds of developing symptoms were highly associated with the expectations declared months before (OR = 1.776), and the association remained stable (OR = 1.453) even when accounting for previous influenza-like illnesses and the perception of general health. In contrast with previous findings, perceived stress was not associated with symptom development. Conclusions: These results support the hypothesis of a self-fulfilling prophecy mechanism related to influenza-like symptoms.
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- 2020
48. The Evolution of IBD Perceived Engagement and Care Needs Across the Life-Cycle: A Scoping Review
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Volpato, Eleonora, primary, Bosio, Caterina, additional, Previtali, Enrica, additional, Leone, Salvatore, additional, Armuzzi, Alessandro, additional, Pagnini, F., additional, and Graffigna, Guendalina, additional
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- 2020
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49. Immunological activity of photodynamic therapy for genital warts
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Giomi, B., Pagnini, F., Cappuccini, A., Bianchi, B., Tiradritti, L., and Zuccati, G.
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- 2011
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50. 2D FEM analyses for the evaluation of seismic performance ofsingle pile and pile group-supported structure in liquefiable soil
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Kardogan, P. S. O., STEFANO STACUL, Pagnini, F., Squeglia, N., and Bhattacharya, S.
- Published
- 2019
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