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F Pinto

Publications and source records attributed to F Pinto.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2004

Anoxic-ischemic alpha coma: prognostic significance of the incomplete variant.

The prognostic significance of post-anoxic-ischemic alpha coma (AC) is controversial. We recorded somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and performed serial electroencephalography (EEG) in a 60-year-old woman in coma after cardiac arrest. The first EEG was recorded after 48 hours (GCS=5; E1-V1-M3); brain-stem reflexes were preserved. The EEG pattern showed monotonous alpha frequencies (10-11 Hz) with posterior predominance; acoustic and noxious stimuli evoked EEG reactivity. Early cortical SEPs (72 h) were normal. On the fifth day (GCS=8; E4-V1-M3), the EEG alpha pattern was replaced by a diffuse delta activity; rhythmic theta changes appeared spontaneously or in response to stimuli. The patient regained consciousness on the tenth day and EEG showed posterior theta activity (6-7 c/s) partially reactive to stimuli. At the 6-month follow-up, cognitive evaluation showed mild dementia. Recent studies identified two forms of AC. Patients with complete AC have an outcome that is almost invariably poor. Conversely, incomplete AC (posteriorly accentuated alpha frequency, reactive and with SEPs mostly normal) reflects a less severe degree of anoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. The case we report should be classified, according to the SEPs and EEG features, as incomplete AC. The fact that the patient has regained consciousness, even if with residual cognitive impairment, confirms the need to distinguish this variant from complete AC.

Alpha Rhythm↗
PubMed2003

Unconverted chars obtained during biomass gasification on a pilot-scale gasifier as a source of activated carbon production.

Biomass gasification was used to produce activated carbon on a pilot-scale fluidised-bed gasifier. The feedstock included both biomass alone and biomass mixed with coal and coal/granulated plastic wastes. This paper reports the results obtained from four different runs undertaken under various conditions of fuel supply, different ratios of steam/air for the gasification and temperature. These conditions were selected because they led to a significant amount of unconverted chars produced during gasification (from 0.72 to 1.4 kg) which then served as raw material for the production of activated carbon whilst the amount of gas obtained was also high enough for its potential use for different end-use applications. From the analysis of the results obtained, it can be concluded that a reasonable porosity development (mainly in the area of narrow micropores) was obtained by gasifying unblended pine wastes with steam for 4 h, producing about 1.4 kg of good-quality activated carbon (micropore volume of 0.263 cm(3)/g). In other runs, chars with a reduced microporosity development (i.e. 0.180 cm(3)/g) were obtained, however, they could be used as a proper starting material for the chemically activated carbon production.

Bioelectric Energy Sources↗
PubMed2003

Respiratory-related evoked potential and upper airway transmural pressure change by using the negative expiratory pressure (NEP) device.

OBJECTIVE: Several studies have previously shown respiratory related evoked potentials (RREP) in humans elicited by mechanical stimuli applied on upper airways (UA). According to us, heterogeneous findings, concerning latencies and amplitudes, have been reported because of the different timing of stimuli application during the respiratory cycle and/or features of pressure stimuli. Therefore we evaluated the cortical response evoked by transmural pressure changes at the mouth induced by a negative expiratory pressure (NEP) device. METHODS: RREP were recorded in 22 healthy non-obese, non-snoring volunteers. The subjects were studied awake in seated position during quiet breathing. Three different pressure levels were applied, in a random order, 200 ms after the beginning of expiration. Cortical electrical responses were recorded from scalp electrodes at Fz, Cz, and Pz scalp location (international 10-20 system) referenced to the linked earlobes. RESULTS: RREP responses consisted of two negative (N45, N120) and two positive (P22, P85) waves. There was no significant effect of pressure or electrode on component latencies. The P22 wave (PRESSURE: F(df 2,42)=6.66, P<0.01), the N45 wave (PRESSURE: F(df 2,42)=16.51, P<0.001), and the P85 wave (PRESSURE: F(df2,42)=15.15, P<0.001) increased significantly theyr amplitude with increasing from pressure stimuli 1 to 10 cmH2O. CONCLUSIONS: The present results suggest that the UA NEP application in humans is a reliable way of evoking cortical responses. The experimental features that we described allow us to minimize the confounding factors in evaluating RREPs. The NEP device appears to be a useful tool for investigation of the neurobiology of UA sensation in humans.

Adult↗
PubMed2002

Guidelines for the use of EEG methodology in the diagnosis of epilepsy. International League Against Epilepsy: commission report. Commission on European Affairs: Subcommission on European Guidelines.

The Commission of European Affairs of the International League Against Epilepsy published 'Appropriate Standards for Epilepsy Care Across Europe' which contained recommendations for the use of electroencephalography (EEG) in the diagnosis of epilepsy (Brodie et al. Epilepsia 1997; 38:1245). The need for a more specific basic document of EEG methodology was recognized and the Subcommission on European Affairs was asked to produce more detailed guidelines to be used across Europe recognizing the range of practices in EEG laboratories. There are many general guidelines published on EEG methodology but this document focuses on the diagnosis of epilepsy. Details from previously published guidelines are included in references and in an appendix. These guidelines are not meant to be used as minimal standards but recommendations that can be applied to all EEG laboratories despite variations in equipment.

Adult↗
PubMed2001

Choline deficiency induced by Mycoplasma fermentans enhances apoptosis of rat astrocytes.

A choline uptake system accumulating free choline in an energy-dependent process is described in Mycoplasma fermentans. The uptake system has a K(m) of 2.2x10(-5) M and a V(max) of 0.15 nmol 10 min(-1) mg(-1) cell protein and the choline incorporated could be recovered in the soluble fraction as free choline, phosphorylcholine and CDP-choline. Choline accumulation by M. fermentans resulted in a marked choline depletion of the growth medium. The choline depletion of an astrocyte cell culture induced by M. fermentans was associated with the apoptotic death of the cells. Apoptosis was not obtained with heat-inactivated mycoplasmas and could be reversed by the addition of free choline to the growth medium.

Animals↗
PubMed2001

The organisation of spinal projecting brainstem neurons in an animal model of muscular dystrophy. A retrograde tracing study on mdx mutant mice.

Previous studies we performed on the mdx mouse demonstrated marked central nervous system alterations in this model of human Duchenne muscular dystrophy, such as reduction in number and pathological changes of cortico-spinal neurons. Prompted by these findings we extended the survey of the mdx brain to the major brainstem-descending pathways: the rubro-, vestibulo-, reticulo-, and raphe-spinal projections. Horseradish peroxidase microinjections were performed in the cervical spinal cord of mdx and control mice. The rubro-spinal neurons were found to be significantly reduced in mutants compared to controls. The vestibulo-spinal, reticulo-spinal, and raphe-spinal cell populations, though less numerous in mdx than in control mice, were instead substantially spared. Our data further unveil the selective nature of mdx brain damage indicating a marked and selective involvement of the highest centers for motor control.

Animals↗
PubMed2001

Role of contrast-enhanced helical CT in the evaluation of acute thoracic aortic injuries after blunt chest trauma.

The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the value of contrast-enhanced helical CT for detecting and managing acute thoracic aortic injury (ATAI). Between June 1995 and February 2000, 1419 consecutive chest CT examinations were performed in the setting of major blunt trauma. The following CT findings were considered indicative of ATAI: intimal flap; pseudoaneurysm; contour irregularity; lumen abnormality; and extravasation of contrast material. On the basis of these direct findings no further diagnostic investigations were performed. Isolated mediastinal hematoma on CT scans was considered an indirect sign of ATAI: In these cases, thoracic aortography was performed even if CT indicated normal aorta. Seventy-seven patients had abnormal CT scans: Among the 23 patients with direct CT signs, acute thoracic aortic injuries was confirmed at thoracotomy in 21. Two false-positive cases were observed. The 54 remaining patients had isolated mediastinal hematoma without aortic injuries at CT and corresponding negative angiograms. The 1342 patients with negative CT scans were included in the 8-month follow-up program and did not show any adverse sequela based on clinical and radiographic criteria. Contrast-enhanced helical CT has a critical role in the exclusion of thoracic aortic injuries in patient with major blunt chest trauma and prevents unnecessary thoracic aortography. Direct CT signs of ATAI do not require further diagnostic investigations to confirm the diagnosis: Isolated aortic bands or contour vessel abnormalities should be first considered as possible artifacts or related to non-traumatic etiologies especially when mediastinal hematoma is absent. In cases of isolated mediastinal hematoma other possible sources of bleeding should be considered before directing patients to thoracic aortography.

Aortic Dissection↗
PubMed2001

[Non-secretory myeloma syndrome].

Non secretory myeloma is a rare and unusual form of myeloma, characterized by the absence of monoclonal component in serum and urine. This peculiarity is usually believed to be caused by the incapacity of neoplastic plasmacells to synthesize or secrete M-component, but it is probably due to several pathogenetic mechanisms which are different from case to case. The diagnosis can be delayed by the non specific clinical pattern, especially in those cases where skeletal radiological studies do not reveal lytic lesions. The authors report two recently diagnosed cases of non secretory myeloma, underlying the main clinical and laboratory findings which led to the diagnosis of this singular syndrome. The diagnostic suspicion is often based, beside the clinical pattern at the onset, on the absence of serum and urinary monoclonal component, on the increase of PCR, of beta 2 microglobulin and on low levels of serum immunoglobulins. CT scans, MRI and Tc 99 MIBI bone marrow radionuclide studies are also useful in evaluating the therapeutic response which cannot be based on quantitative variations of the M-component. The clinical suspicion is confirmed by the bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy, showing a typical infiltration by plasmacells at various degree of maturation.

Aged↗
PubMed2000

Inhibitory effect of carbamazepine on inflammatory mediators produced by stimulated glial cells.

Exposure of rat glial cells to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), the inflammatory mediators implicated in the pathogenesis of seizures and epilepsy. To determine the effect of the anticonvulsant drug carbamazepine (CBZ) on the inflammatory process, LPS-stimulated rat primary glial cultures were exposed to this agent. Dose-dependent inhibition of NO and PGE(2) production was observed of up to 77 and 88%, respectively. Furthermore, a prominent (94%) decline in the secretory isoform of phospholipase A(2) (sPLA(2)) activity was found in response to CBZ and could contribute to the inhibition of PGE(2) production. Cumulatively, our findings point to the anti-inflammatory effect of CBZ on non-neuronal cells, which might, in part, contribute to its anticonvulsive effect.

Animals↗
PubMed2000

Delayed presentation of traumatic left-sided diaphragmatic avulsion. A case report.

We describe the case of a 35-year-old man who had suffered a severe multitrauma with blunt thoracic injury, left scapula and humerus fractures 5 years earlier. At the time of the trauma, a diaphragmatic lesion went unnoticed. Five years later, the patient had a 24-h history of increasingly severe abdominal pain with repeated vomiting. Helical CT showed a portion of the left hemidiaphragm avulsed from its insertions on the ribs with large-bowel loop obstruction herniated in the left hemithorax. The preoperative CT diagnosis was confirmed by surgery: reduction of the hernia and reinsertion of the hemidiaphragm to the lumbocostal arch were performed.

Adult↗
PubMed2000

[Carotenodermia: an erroneous diagnosis of jaundice].

Carotenoids are essential pigments in vegetal photosynthetic processes, but they also have important biological functions in animal physiology: beta carotene in particular represents provitamin A. The accumulation of carotenoids in a man results in a cutaneous hyperpigmentation very similar to jaundice: usually this happens in vegetarian subjects after an excessive food eating. In the described case, a situation similar to jaundice appeared in a 56 years old man affected by psychic disorders, his diet consisted for several years almost exclusively of eggs (an average of 27 eggs a day). As this type of food is very rich in carotenoids (especially lutein giving to yolk the characteristic colour), it is inevitable that, in addition to hypercholesterolemia, a consistent amount of carotenodermia is present. This recalls the possible antiaterogenal action of carotenoids.

Carotenoids↗
PubMed2000

[The role of spiral computed tomography in sigmoid diverticulitis and the diagnostic-therapeutic implications].

PURPOSE: Colonic diverticula are saccules made of colonic mucosa and submucosa that herniate from the colonic lumen through the muscular layer of the wall where straight vessels penetrate. Diverticula are localized in the sigmoid colon in 95% of cases. Bacteria pooling in the lumen may cause lumen erosion and eventually perforation. CT is a useful technique in this condition because it can demonstrate intra- and/or extramural inflammation. Aim of this retrospective study was to assess the capabilities of contrast-enhanced helical Computed Tomography (CT) in sigmoid diverticulitis, especially relative to selection of the appropriate treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the findings of 41 patients referred to our emergency department for diverticulitis. CT scans were performed 65 seconds after i.v. injection of nonionic contrast material (3 mL/s, 120 mL in all) administered by a CT-power injector. The following 7 CT findings were considered at least suggestive of acute diverticulitis: focal wall thickening, intramural abscess, inflammatory changes in the sigmoid mesentery root, pericolic fat inflammation or pericolic abscess formation, fistula, peritonitis. CT results were compared with surgical and physical findings. RESULTS: Based on CT findings, diverticulitis was classified as mild (25 patients) or severe (15 patients). In mild diverticulitis we found: focal sigmoid wall thickening (6 patients), intramural abscess (3 patients), sigmoid mesentery root thickening (5 patients), edema fluid (8 patients) and phlegmon (3 patients). In severe diverticulitis we found: sigmoid mesentery abscess (6 patients), fistula (5 patients) and peritonitis (4 patients). CT findings were questionable in 1 case and thus we could not exclude a perforated carcinoma. CONCLUSION: Contrast-enhanced helical CT is the imaging modality of choice in assessing mild or severe acute diverticulitis because it provides useful information for appropriate treatment planning in the emergency setting. This technique is most useful in questionable cases and in patients with suspected severe diverticulitis where a choice must be made between different treatment options.

Colon, Sigmoid↗
PubMed1999

A synthetic glycopeptide of human myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein to detect antibody responses in multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases.

Glycopeptides of hMOG(30-50) containing a glucosyl moiety on the side-chains of Asn, Ser or Hyp at position 31 were synthesised. Antibody titres to hMOG(30-50) and to its glucoderivatives were measured by ELISA in sera of patients affected by different neurological diseases. Anti-hMOG(30-50) antibodies were detected only using the glycopeptide [Asn31(N-Glc)]hMOG(30-50).

Amino Acids↗
PubMed1999

A simple pressure microinjecting system for delivery of small substance volumes to the brain: application to the developmental study of thalamo-cortical projections in foetal and neonatal rats.

We describe a reliable and inexpensive method for placing injections of anatomical tracers into the brain of lower mammals. The pressure microinjecting system we developed is specifically designed to deliver very small amount of substances. The injecting portion of the system is relatively easy to assemble and can be repeatedly used for multiple experimental sessions. The system has been validated with experiments of multiple fluorescent retrograde tracing. In these experiments the populations of thalamo-cortical neurons were consistently labeled by the tracers injected bilaterally and symmetrically in the cortex of foetal and neonatal rats.

Amidines↗