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22 pages, 3738 KiB  
Article
Field Experiments of Mineral Deposition by Cathodic Polarization as a Sustainable Management Strategy for the Reuse of Marine Steel Structures
by Tiziano Bellezze, Giuseppina Colaleo, Pasquale Contestabile, Pietro Forcellese, Simone Ranieri, Nicola Simoncini, Gianni Barucca, Cinzia Corinaldesi, Fabio Conversano, Oriano Francescangeli, Luigi Montalto, Michela Pisani, Simona Sabbatini, Francesco Vita, Diego Vicinanza and Antonio Dell’Anno
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 5720; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17135720 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1517
Abstract
This paper presents field experiments of mineral deposition on steel, induced by cathodic polarization in natural seawater, as a sustainable strategy for the life extension of marine steel structures. Although this approach is quite well known, the ability of the mineral deposit to [...] Read more.
This paper presents field experiments of mineral deposition on steel, induced by cathodic polarization in natural seawater, as a sustainable strategy for the life extension of marine steel structures. Although this approach is quite well known, the ability of the mineral deposit to both protect steel from corrosion in the absence of a cathodic current, thus operating as an inorganic coating, and provide an effective substrate for colonization by microorganisms still needs to be fully explained. To this end, two identical steel structure prototypes were installed at a depth of 20 m: one was submitted to cathodic polarization, while the other was left under free corrosion for comparison. After 6 months, the current supplied to the electrified structure was interrupted. A multidisciplinary approach was used to analyze the deposits on steel round bars installed in the prototypes over time, in the presence and in the absence of a cathodic current. Different investigation techniques were employed to provide the following information on the deposit: the composition in terms of elements, compounds and macro-biofouling; the morphology; the thickness and the degree of protection estimated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results showed that under cathodic polarization, the thickness of the deposit increased to 2.5 mm and then remained almost constant after the current was interrupted. Conversely, the surface impedance decreased from 3 kΩ cm2 to about 1.5 kΩ cm2 at the same time, and the aragonite–brucite ratio also decreased. This indicates a deterioration in the protection performance and soundness of the deposit, respectively. Considering the trends in thickness and impedance together, it can be concluded that the preformed mineral deposit does not undergo generalized deterioration after current interruption, which would result in a reduction in thickness, but rather localized degradation. This phenomenon was attributed to the burrowing action of marine organisms, which created porosities and/or capillary pathways through the deposit. Therefore, the corrosion protection offered by the mineral deposit without a cathodic current is insufficient because it loses its protective properties. However, the necessary current can be quite limited in the presence of the deposit, which in any case provides a suitable substrate for sustaining the colonization and growth of sessile marine organisms, thus promoting biodiversity. Full article
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15 pages, 638 KiB  
Article
The Prognostic Role of Serum Procalcitonin for Adult Patients with Acute Diarrhea in the Emergency Department
by Antonella Gallo, Marcello Covino, Eleonora Ianua’, Andrea Piccioni, Davide Della Polla, Benedetta Simeoni, Francesco Franceschi, Francesco Landi and Massimo Montalto
Diagnostics 2025, 15(6), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15060734 - 15 Mar 2025
Viewed by 740
Abstract
Background. Acute diarrhea is one of the leading causes of Emergency Department (ED) access. The search for the causative pathogen cannot be routinely performed since conventional methods, like stool cultures, are time-consuming, requiring days for growth and delaying diagnosis and the start of [...] Read more.
Background. Acute diarrhea is one of the leading causes of Emergency Department (ED) access. The search for the causative pathogen cannot be routinely performed since conventional methods, like stool cultures, are time-consuming, requiring days for growth and delaying diagnosis and the start of therapy. In this large sample retrospective study, we evaluated the prognostic role of serum procalcitonin (PCT) for adult patients with acute diarrhea in the ED. Methods. In a retrospective, mono-centric study, we enrolled all patients visiting our ED complaining of acute diarrhea and then hospitalized over five years. Final diagnosis of an infective (including bacterial) diarrhea, any other infection, and a bloodstream infection (BSI) was collected by clinical records, according to the International Disease Classification 10th edition. Procalcitonin determination was obtained upon request of the ED physician at the admission visit based on patient evaluation and clinical judgment. Results. Of a total of 1910 patients, early PCT values (cut-off of 0.5 ng/mL) did not show a significant predictive value for infective diarrhea (OR 0.554 [0.395–0.778]), nor for bacterial diarrhea (OR 0.596 [0.405–0.875]). Conversely, PCT levels at ED admission showed a significant predictive value for a final diagnosis of any infection (OR 1.793 [1.362–2.362]) and, above all, of bloodstream infection (BSI) (OR 6.694 [4.869–9.202]). Conclusions. Our data suggest that in ED, where the complexity and heterogeneity of patients are very high, indiscriminate PCT-guided management of patients with diarrhea is not indicated. Conversely, in patients with diarrhea but also clinical suspicion of BSI, PCT determination remains a useful instrument, possibly improving clinical management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostics in the Emergency and Critical Care Medicine)
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34 pages, 475 KiB  
Review
Heart Failure in Older Patients: An Update
by Massimo Montalto, Federica D’Ignazio, Sara Camilli, Silvino Di Francesco, Marco Fedele, Francesco Landi and Antonella Gallo
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(6), 1982; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14061982 - 14 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5940
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome with high incidence and prevalence and high morbidity and death rate, even in the short term, representing a serious public health issue, mainly in older people. It is a growing cause for hospital admission in this [...] Read more.
Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome with high incidence and prevalence and high morbidity and death rate, even in the short term, representing a serious public health issue, mainly in older people. It is a growing cause for hospital admission in this age group, being frequently associated with several comorbidities, further aggravating the disease’s course. Moreover, older HF patients are usually affected by clinical conditions, like frailty, malnutrition, and cachexia, which significantly impact the overall management of HF and need to be properly identified and treated. Diagnosing and managing HF in older patients may be very complicated and challenging. Although specific data on treatment of both acute and chronic HF in older subjects are limited and mainly extrapolated from large-scale clinical trials, the standard pharmacological management may be considered well-tolerated and generally safe. In any case, a personalized and tailored approach is mandatory and is based on severity of comorbidities, overall status, and prognosis, above all in frailer and more comorbid subjects, due to the higher rate of drug interactions, side effects, and therapy discontinuation in this population. In this scenario, palliative care has become a fundamental part of HF management in the elderly in order to improve their care and the quality of life. Moreover, an increasing number of promising pharmacological options deserve further investigation in order to support clinicians in optimizing management of comorbid and frailer patients. In this work, we provide detailed and updated insight into clinical, therapeutic, and prognostic features of both acute and chronic HF in the older population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acute and Chronic Heart Failure: Clinical Updates and Perspectives)
20 pages, 3701 KiB  
Article
Surviving in a Warmer Marine World: A Study on the Impact of Thermal Effluent on Posidonia oceanica Meadows and Associated Fish Assemblages in the Maltese Islands
by Alessio Marrone, Alessandro Rinaldi, Valeria Montalto, Adam Gauci, Francesca Ape, Henri Ringeard, Marco Spoto, Marco Martinez, Emanuela Claudia La Marca, Simone Mirto and Alan Deidun
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(3), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13030475 - 28 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 901
Abstract
Ocean warming poses significant threats to coastal ecosystems. This study investigates the impact of thermal effluents from power plants, as proxies for climate-driven temperatures increase, on Posidonia oceanica meadows and associated fish communities. Using a gradient-based approach, we analyzed environmental variables, seagrass indicators, [...] Read more.
Ocean warming poses significant threats to coastal ecosystems. This study investigates the impact of thermal effluents from power plants, as proxies for climate-driven temperatures increase, on Posidonia oceanica meadows and associated fish communities. Using a gradient-based approach, we analyzed environmental variables, seagrass indicators, fish assemblages, and functional group (FG) dynamics across a thermal gradient extending from the effluent outfall itself. Results indicate that temperature is the dominant factor influencing P. oceanica, with reduced leaf length, shoot density, and rhizome weight characterizing samples closest to the effluent. Despite compensatory mechanisms, the overall photosynthetic biomass and resilience declined under thermal stress. Fish assemblages exhibited reduced species richness and biodiversity close to the thermal effluent, with opportunistic and thermophilic species dominating. An FG analysis revealed disrupted seasonal patterns, shifts in trophic dynamics, and functional compensation among species, highlighting potential ecological imbalances. Notably, transient predators thrived near the effluent, while more sedentary and temperate species were displaced. These findings underscore the cascading effects of rising temperatures on coastal habitats such as P. oceanica meadows and their associated communities, emphasizing the urgency for conservation measures. By identifying critical thresholds and adaptive responses, this study contributes valuable insights into the consequences of localized impacts of thermal stress on coastal biodiversity and ecosystem services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Biodiversity and Ecophysiology Under Changing Marine Habitats)
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17 pages, 818 KiB  
Article
The Effects of a Food Supplement, Based on Co-Micronized Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)–Rutin and Hydroxytyrosol, in Metabolic Syndrome Patients: Preliminary Results
by Kevin Cornali, Manuela Di Lauro, Giulia Marrone, Claudia Masci, Giulia Montalto, Alfredo Giovannelli, Carlo Schievano, Manfredi Tesauro, Massimo Pieri, Sergio Bernardini and Annalisa Noce
Nutrients 2025, 17(3), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17030413 - 23 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1994
Abstract
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients have impaired hypothalamic regulatory functions involved in food intake and energy expenditure and suffer from a state of meta-inflammation. Pre-clinical studies demonstrated that ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) acts both on the adipose tissue and the central nervous system, while [...] Read more.
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients have impaired hypothalamic regulatory functions involved in food intake and energy expenditure and suffer from a state of meta-inflammation. Pre-clinical studies demonstrated that ultramicronized palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) acts both on the adipose tissue and the central nervous system, while hydroxytyrosol (HTyr) counteracts several types of dysmetabolism. Objectives: The aim of our randomized crossover double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study was to evaluate the potential effects of a food supplement (FS) containing a co-micronized formulation of PEA and rutin along with HTyr, combined with a tailored calorie-controlled Mediterranean diet, in patients with MetS. Methods: Nineteen patients were enrolled and block-randomized to an eight-week MD together with the FS or placebo. After a two-week washout period, the treatments were reversed. Data on laboratory parameters and those detected by capillary sampling, anthropometry, body composition analysis, ultrasound examination, blood pressure monitoring, the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire, handgrip strength test, and physical performance tests were collected at each time point (protocol code R.S. 262.22, registered on 20 December 2022). Results: At the end of the study, patients supplemented with the FS showed a significant reduction in body weight, body mass index, fat mass, and inflammation biomarkers (CRP and ESR), compared to placebo-supplemented patients. In contrast, the fat-free mass, phase angle, and body cell mass were increased in FS compared to placebo patients. Conclusions: Although preliminary, the results of our clinical study suggest that co-micronized PEA–rutin and HTyr may be of help against adiposopathy in patients with MetS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrients: 15th Anniversary)
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11 pages, 8366 KiB  
Article
The Prognostic Role of Pulmonary Arterial Elastance in Patients Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation: A Pilot Study
by Marco Di Mauro, Michelle Kittleson, Giulio Cacioli, Vito Piazza, Rita Lucia Putini, Rita Gravino, Vincenzo Polizzi, Andrea Montalto, Marina Comisso, Fabio Sbaraglia, Emanuele Monda, Andrea Petraio, Marisa De Feo, Cristiano Amarelli, Claudio Marra, Francesco Musumeci, Emilio Di Lorenzo and Daniele Masarone
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(23), 7102; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13237102 - 24 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1001
Abstract
Background: Pulmonary arterial elastance (Ea) is a helpful parameter to predict the risk of acute postoperative right ventricular failure (RVF) after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. A new method for calculating Ea, obtained by the ratio between transpulmonary gradient and stroke [...] Read more.
Background: Pulmonary arterial elastance (Ea) is a helpful parameter to predict the risk of acute postoperative right ventricular failure (RVF) after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. A new method for calculating Ea, obtained by the ratio between transpulmonary gradient and stroke volume (EaB), has been proposed as a more accurate measure than the Ea obtained as the ratio between pulmonary artery systolic pressure and stroke volume (EaC). However, the role of EaB in predicting acute RVF post-LVAD implantation remains unclear. Methods and Results: A total of 35 patients who underwent LVAD implantation from 2018 to 2021 were reviewed in this retrospective analysis. Acute RVF after LVAD implantation occurred in 12 patients (34%): 5 patients with moderate RVF (14% of total) and 7 patients with severe RVF. The EaB was not significantly different between the “severe RVF” vs. “not-severe RVF” groups (0.27 ± 0.04 vs 0.23 ± 0.1, p < 0.403). However, the combination of arterial elastance and central venous pressure was significantly different between the “not-severe RVF” group (central venous pressure < 14 mmHg and EaC < 0.88 mmHg/mL or EaB < 0.24 mmHg/mL; p < 0.005) and the “severe RVF” group (central venous pressure > 14 mmHg and EaC > 0.88 mmHg/mL or EaB > 0.24 mmHg/mL; p < 0.005). Conclusions: Ea is a reliable parameter of right ventricular afterload and helps discriminate the risk of acute RVF after LVAD implantation. The combined analysis of Ea and central venous pressure can also risk stratify patients undergoing LVAD implantation for the development of RVF. Full article
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13 pages, 296 KiB  
Review
Urinary Tract Infection in Children: An Up-To-Date Study
by Silvio Maringhini, Demet Alaygut and Ciro Corrado
Biomedicines 2024, 12(11), 2582; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12112582 - 12 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4774
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections in children. UTIs may be limited to the bladder or involve the kidneys with possible irreversible damage. Congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are often associated with UTIs; kidney scars have been [...] Read more.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections in children. UTIs may be limited to the bladder or involve the kidneys with possible irreversible damage. Congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are often associated with UTIs; kidney scars have been considered a consequence of untreated UTIs but may be congenital. The mechanism by which bacteria produce inflammation in the urinary system has been intensively investigated. Diagnostic tools, including invasive imaging procedures, have been advocated in infants and small children with UTIs but are not necessary in most cases. Effective antibiotic drugs are available, and prophylactic treatment has been questioned. Several guidelines on UTIs are available, but a simple one for general practitioners is needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Kidney Disease in Children)
15 pages, 612 KiB  
Article
Acute Diarrhea in a Tertiary Emergency Department: From Readmission Determinants to Antibiotic Prescription
by Marcello Covino, Antonella Gallo, Fiammetta Maria Rognoni, Maria Caterina Parlangeli, Benedetta Simeoni, Francesco Franceschi, Francesco Landi and Massimo Montalto
Antibiotics 2024, 13(9), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13090891 - 16 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1303
Abstract
Acute diarrhea represents a major public health issue, and the management of adult patients admitted to the emergency department (ED) for this problem is still challenging. In a retrospective analysis on more than 20,000 patients visiting a tertiary ED for acute diarrhea and [...] Read more.
Acute diarrhea represents a major public health issue, and the management of adult patients admitted to the emergency department (ED) for this problem is still challenging. In a retrospective analysis on more than 20,000 patients visiting a tertiary ED for acute diarrhea and then being discharged home, we found that age > 65 years, onset of symptoms > 24 h since ED admission, refusal of hospitalization, and a history of chronic renal and liver diseases were independently associated with ED readmission for abdominal symptoms within 7 days. In the younger group, the presence of comorbidities significantly impacted on ED readmission, while fever and alteration of serum creatinine were the main determinants in the older group. Antibiotics were prescribed in about 25% of patients, although diarrhea etiology (viral or bacterial) was usually not available. According to international guidelines, fluoroquinolones were the most prescribed class, showing an inverse correlation to ED readmission. However, β-lactams and probiotics were also commonly prescribed; the latter were independently correlated to ED readmission in the elderly group. A comprehensive, guideline-based approach, including a detailed clinical history and laboratory and comorbidity assessment, should be encouraged to support physicians in the management of different age subgroups of adults admitted to the ED for acute diarrhea. Full article
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8 pages, 1793 KiB  
Article
The Youngest European Record of the Chelonian Family Trionychidae (Calabrian, Central Italy) Offers New Clues on the Quaternary Extirpation History of the Softshell Turtles
by Alberto Collareta, Simone Casati, Edoardo Terranova, Francesco Nobile, Giulia Bosio, Andrea Di Cencio and Giovanni Coletti
Geosciences 2024, 14(9), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14090239 - 3 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1402
Abstract
We report on the geologically youngest occurrence of the softshell turtle family Trionychidae in Europe, from middle Calabrian (Emilian) strata cropping out at Montalto, Pisa Province (Tuscany, central Italy). This record indicates that the softshell turtles survived well past the glacial pulse at [...] Read more.
We report on the geologically youngest occurrence of the softshell turtle family Trionychidae in Europe, from middle Calabrian (Emilian) strata cropping out at Montalto, Pisa Province (Tuscany, central Italy). This record indicates that the softshell turtles survived well past the glacial pulse at ca. 1.8 Ma. That the most recent finds of Trionychidae all over Europe come from mainland Italy further evokes the role of the Apennine peninsula as a refugium for humid-dwelling herpetofaunas through most of the Plio-Pleistocene. Reduced humidity associated with the intensified cool stages at the beginning of the Early–Middle Pleistocene Transition may have been behind the demise of the last European softshell turtles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sedimentology, Stratigraphy and Palaeontology)
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14 pages, 1893 KiB  
Article
Possible Role of NRF2 in Cell Response to OZOILE (Stable Ozonides) in Children Affected by Lichen Sclerosus of Foreskin
by Caterina Saija, Monica Currò, Salvatore Arena, Maria Paola Bertuccio, Fabiola Cassaro, Angela Simona Montalto, Michele Rosario Colonna, Daniela Caccamo, Carmelo Romeo and Pietro Impellizzeri
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2024, 46(9), 9401-9414; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb46090557 - 26 Aug 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1514
Abstract
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, and the gold standard for treatment is the use of the very potent topical steroids, but they can have side effects. Previously, we demonstrated that OZOILE (stable ozonides) were effective in children [...] Read more.
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, and the gold standard for treatment is the use of the very potent topical steroids, but they can have side effects. Previously, we demonstrated that OZOILE (stable ozonides) were effective in children affected by LS, reducing the inflammatory process and stimulating tissue regeneration of the foreskin, showing a similar efficacy to steroid treatment. In this study, the modulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways was evaluated by qRT-PCR and Western blotting in foreskins affected by LS removed from patients untreated or treated with OZOILE or corticosteroid cream formulations for 7 days before circumcision. OZOILE induced a significant increase in NRF2 and SOD2 levels, while it did not produce change in MIF, NF-kB subunits, and MMPs in comparison to untreated foreskins. Conversely, steroid topical treatment produced a significant reduction in the expression of p65, MIF, and MMP9, but it did not cause variation in NRF2 and SOD2 levels. These results demonstrate that the use of OZOILE as cream formulation exhibits effects on NRF2 signaling, and it does not induce NF-κB activation, unlike corticosteroids. On the basis of our biochemical data, further studies evaluating the role of NRF2 signaling cascade are necessary. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation)
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17 pages, 1876 KiB  
Review
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and Its By-Products: Healthy Effects in Internal Medicine
by Giulia Marrone, Silvia Urciuoli, Manuela Di Lauro, Kevin Cornali, Giulia Montalto, Claudia Masci, Gianluca Vanni, Manfredi Tesauro, Pamela Vignolini and Annalisa Noce
Nutrients 2024, 16(14), 2319; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16142319 - 18 Jul 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6979
Abstract
Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron, is a precious spice coming from Asia, in particular from Iran, the country leader in its production. The spice is derived exclusively from dried stigmas and it is the most expensive one in the world. The [...] Read more.
Crocus sativus L., commonly known as saffron, is a precious spice coming from Asia, in particular from Iran, the country leader in its production. The spice is derived exclusively from dried stigmas and it is the most expensive one in the world. The areas of application of saffron are multiple, in fact ranging across the food, drinks, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics sectors. As is the case with other phytochemicals, not only the final product but also saffron by-products are considered a valuable source of bioactive natural compounds. In fact, its healthy effects, especially as antioxidants and anti-inflammatories (via reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines), are well-recognized in internal medicine. In particular, its healthy effects are related to counteracting degenerative maculopathy, depression and anxiety, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic syndrome, cancer and chronic kidney disease, by promoting glucose metabolism. In this review, we summarize the most important papers in which saffron has turned out to be a valuable ally in the prevention and treatment of these pathologies. Moreover, we would like to promote the use of saffron by-products as part of a bio-circular economy system, aimed at reducing wastes, at maximizing the use of resources and at promoting environmental and economic sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Nutrition)
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12 pages, 3346 KiB  
Article
Production of Composite Zinc Oxide–Polylactic Acid Radiopaque Filaments for Fused Deposition Modeling: First Stage of a Feasibility Study
by Francesca Cherubini, Nicole Riberti, Anna Maria Schiavone, Fabrizio Davì, Michele Furlani, Alessandra Giuliani, Gianni Barucca, Maria Cristina Cassani, Daniele Rinaldi and Luigi Montalto
Materials 2024, 17(12), 2892; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17122892 - 13 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1493
Abstract
Three-dimensional printing technologies are becoming increasingly attractive for their versatility; the geometrical customizability and manageability of the final product properties are the key points. This work aims to assess the feasibility of producing radiopaque filaments for fused deposition modeling (FDM), a 3D printing [...] Read more.
Three-dimensional printing technologies are becoming increasingly attractive for their versatility; the geometrical customizability and manageability of the final product properties are the key points. This work aims to assess the feasibility of producing radiopaque filaments for fused deposition modeling (FDM), a 3D printing technology, starting with zinc oxide (ZnO) and polylactic acid (PLA) as the raw materials. Indeed, ZnO and PLA are promising materials due to their non-toxic and biocompatible nature. Pellets of PLA and ZnO in the form of nanoparticles were mixed together using ethanol; this homogenous mixture was processed by a commercial extruder, optimizing the process parameters for obtaining mechanically stable samples. Scanning electron microscopy analyses were used to assess, in the extruded samples, the homogenous distribution of the ZnO in the PLA matrix. Moreover, X-ray microtomography revealed a certain homogenous radiopacity; this imaging technique also confirmed the correct distribution of the ZnO in the PLA matrix. Thus, our tests showed that mechanically stable radiopaque filaments, ready for FDM systems, were obtained by homogenously loading the PLA with a maximum ZnO content of 6.5% wt. (nominal). This study produced multiple outcomes. We demonstrated the feasibility of producing radiopaque filaments for additive manufacturing using safe materials. Moreover, each phase of the process is cost-effective and green-oriented; in fact, the homogenous mixture of PLA and ZnO requires only a small amount of ethanol, which evaporates in minutes without any temperature adjustment. Finally, both the extruding and the FDM technologies are the most accessible systems for the additive manufacturing commercial apparatuses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Application of Additive Manufacturing: Volume II)
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12 pages, 281 KiB  
Review
Platelets and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives
by Antonella Gallo, Alice Lipari, Silvino Di Francesco, Eleonora Ianuà, Rosa Liperoti, Maria Camilla Cipriani, Anna Maria Martone, Erica De Candia, Francesco Landi and Massimo Montalto
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(12), 6292; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25126292 - 7 Jun 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1672
Abstract
Platelets have a fundamental role in mediating hemostasis and thrombosis. However, more recently, a new idea is making headway, highlighting the importance of platelets as significant actors in modulating immune and inflammatory responses. In particular, platelets have an important role in the development [...] Read more.
Platelets have a fundamental role in mediating hemostasis and thrombosis. However, more recently, a new idea is making headway, highlighting the importance of platelets as significant actors in modulating immune and inflammatory responses. In particular, platelets have an important role in the development of vascular amyloid-b-peptide(ab) deposits, known to play a relevant role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) through accumulation and deposition within the frontal cortex and hippocampus in the brain. The involvement of platelets in the pathogenesis of AD opens up the highly attractive possibility of applying antiplatelet therapy for the treatment and/or prevention of AD, but conclusive results are scarce. Even less is known about the potential role of platelets in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The aim to this brief review is to summarize current knowledge on this topic and to introduce the new perspectives on the possible role of platelet activation as therapeutic target both in AD and MCI. Full article
18 pages, 2932 KiB  
Article
Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fatigue Effects of an Oral Food Supplement in Long COVID Patients
by Annalisa Noce, Giulia Marrone, Manuela Di Lauro, Chiara Vita, Giulia Montalto, Gloria Giorgino, Carlo Chiaramonte, Cartesio D’Agostini, Sergio Bernardini and Massimo Pieri
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040463 - 5 Apr 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5112
Abstract
Long coronavirus disease (COVID) syndrome leads to chronic inflammatory state onset that can have a multisystem impact and compromise organ function. Moreover, long COVID syndrome is often characterized by the presence of chronic fatigue, which affects subjects’ daily activities and worsens their quality [...] Read more.
Long coronavirus disease (COVID) syndrome leads to chronic inflammatory state onset that can have a multisystem impact and compromise organ function. Moreover, long COVID syndrome is often characterized by the presence of chronic fatigue, which affects subjects’ daily activities and worsens their quality of life. The aim of our double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial (protocol code RS 150.21, approved on 4 November 2021) was to evaluate the beneficial effects of the consumption of 2 cps/day, for two months, of an oral food supplement (OFS), based on Echinacea angustifolia, rosehip, propolis, royal jelly and zinc, in long COVID patients, compared to a two-month placebo period. The OFS’s vitamin C content was equal to 22.17 mg/g (8.87 mg/capsule). The OFS’s total polyphenol content was 43.98 mg/g gallic acid equivalents. At the end of the in vivo study, we highlighted a significant decrease in the inflammatory parameters in the OFS period, compared to the placebo period (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, p = 0.0455; monocyte to-lymphocyte ratio, p = 0.0005; C-reactive protein, p = 0.0145). Our study also highlighted a significant increase in vitamin D serum values (p = 0.0005) and, at the same time, an improvement in patients’ life quality and a reduction in fatigue, monitored by the fatigue severity scale. This study showed the OFS’s beneficial effects on the inflammatory state, fatigue and quality of life in long COVID patients. Full article
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25 pages, 1338 KiB  
Review
Main Disorders of Gastrointestinal Tract in Older People: An Overview
by Antonella Gallo, Simona Pellegrino, Erika Pero, Maria Chiara Agnitelli, Caterina Parlangeli, Francesco Landi and Massimo Montalto
Gastrointest. Disord. 2024, 6(1), 313-336; https://doi.org/10.3390/gidisord6010022 - 10 Mar 2024
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 13758
Abstract
From a physiological standpoint, aging is a progressive reduction in each organ system’s capacity to maintain homeostasis in the face of illness or stressors. With advancing age, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and signs may increase, not only due to the aging processes but also [...] Read more.
From a physiological standpoint, aging is a progressive reduction in each organ system’s capacity to maintain homeostasis in the face of illness or stressors. With advancing age, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and signs may increase, not only due to the aging processes but also to the superimposed effects of comorbidities, which can badly affect digestive functions (i.e., diabetes, malignancy, etc.) and environmental exposure. In general, gastrointestinal symptoms in older people more often underlie organic pathologies, while GI functional disorders are less frequently diagnosed in this age group. Moreover, gastrointestinal disease can also present in a nuanced and atypical manner, making the diagnostic hypothesis and, consequently, the correct diagnosis and therapy more challenging. In addition, with reference to this age group, the clinical implications of gastrointestinal pathologies can be more severe due to a decreased physiologic reserve, with a higher risk for malnutrition resulting in falls, depression, social isolation, and a deterioration of functional status. In this review, we focused on the most frequent GI tract disorders, highlighting the main age-related changes, their epidemiological, pathophysiological and clinical implications, and any differences with younger patients. Full article
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