University of Siena

About: University of Siena is a education organization based out in Siena, Italy. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Cancer. The organization has 12179 authors who have published 33334 publications receiving 1008287 citations. The organization is also known as: Università degli studi di Siena & Universita degli studi di Siena.

Identification of a c-fos-induced gene that is related to the platelet-derived growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor family

Abstract: Using a mRNA differential screening of fibroblasts differing for the expression of c-fos we isolated a c-fos-induced growth factor (FIGF). The deduced protein sequence predicts that the cDNA codes for a new member of the platelet-derived growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor (PDGF/VEGF) family. Northern blot analysis shows that FIGF expression is strongly reduced in c-fos-deficient cells. Transfection of exogenous c-fos driven by a constitutive promoter restores the FIGF expression in these cells. In contrast, both PDGF and VEGF expression is unaffected by c-fos. FIGF is a secreted dimeric protein able to stimulate mitogenic activity in fibroblasts. FIGF overexpression induces morphological alterations in fibroblasts. The cells acquire a spindle-shaped morphology, become more refractive, disorganized, and detach from the plate. These results imply that FIGF is a downstream growth and morphogenic effector of c-fos. These results also suggest that the expression of FIGF in response to c-fos activation induces specific differentiation patterns and its aberrant activation contributes to the malignant phenotype of tumors.

Evidence-based guidelines: MAGNIMS consensus guidelines on the use of MRI in multiple sclerosis - Clinical implementation in the diagnostic process

Abstract: The clinical use of MRI in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) has advanced markedly over the past few years. Technical improvements and continuously emerging data from clinical trials and observational studies have contributed to the enhanced performance of this tool for achieving a prompt diagnosis in patients with MS. The aim of this article is to provide guidelines for the implementation of MRI of the brain and spinal cord in the diagnosis of patients who are suspected of having MS. These guidelines are based on an extensive review of the recent literature, as well as on the personal experience of the members of the MAGNIMS (Magnetic Resonance Imaging in MS) network. We address the indications, timing, coverage, reporting and interpretation of MRI studies in patients with suspected MS. Our recommendations are intended to help radiologists and neurologists standardize and optimize the use of MRI in clinical practice for the diagnosis of MS.

Structure and dynamics of the pan-genome of Streptococcus pneumoniae and closely related species

Abstract: Background Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the most important causes of microbial diseases in humans. The genomes of 44 diverse strains of S. pneumoniae were analyzed and compared with strains of non-pathogenic streptococci of the Mitis group.

Risk Factors for Hip Fracture in Men from Southern Europe: The MEDOS Study

Abstract: The aims of this study were to identify risk factors for hip fracture in men aged 50 years or more. We identified 730 men with hip fracture from 14 centers from Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Turkey during the course of a prospective study of hip fracture incidence and 1132 age-stratified controls selected from the neighborhood or population registers. The questionnaire examined aspects of work, physical activity past and present, diseases and drugs, height, weight, indices of co-morbidity and consumption of tobacco, alcohol, calcium, coffee and tea. Significant risk factors identified by univariate analysis included low body mass index (BMI), low sunlight exposure, a low degree of recreational physical activity, low consumption of milk and cheese, and a poor mental score. Co-morbidity including sleep disturbances, loss of weight, impaired mental status and poor appetite were also significant risk factors. Previous stroke with hemiplegia, prior fragility fractures, senile dementia, alcoholism and gastrectomy were associated with significant risk, whereas osteoarthrosis, nephrolithiasis and myocardial infarction were associated with lower risks. Taking medications was not associated with a difference in risk apart from a protective effect with the use of analgesics independent of co-existing osteoarthrosis and an increased risk with the use of anti-epileptic agents. Of the potentially ‘reversible’ risk factors, BMI, leisure exercise, exposure to sunlight and consumption of tea and alcohol and tobacco remained independent risk factors after multivariate analysis, accounting for 54% of hip fractures. Excluding BMI, 46% of fractures could be explained on the basis of the risk factors sought. Of the remaining factors low exposure to sunlight and decreased physical activity accounted for the highest attributable risks (14% and 9% respectively). The use of risk factors to predict hip fractures had relatively low sensitivity and specificity (59.6% and 61.0% respectively). We conclude that lifestyle factors are associated with significant differences in the risk of hip fracture. Potentially remediable factors including a low degree of physical exercise and a low BMI account for a large component of the total risk.