Dr. Puccia studies the interactions between various contaminants and materials, particularly how these interactions can be used to improve water treatment. He investigates how substances like arsenate, a toxic form of arsenic, can be effectively removed from water using specially modified clays. Additionally, he has researched cancer, particularly focusing on lung and breast cancer. His work has helped optimize treatment approaches and follow-up strategies for patients dealing with these conditions, ensuring better outcomes and more personalized care.
Key findings
At a neutral pH of 6, Fe(III)-modified montmorillonite can hold onto 52 micromoles of arsenate per gram, indicating its effectiveness in treating arsenic-contaminated water.
In a study of lung cancer patients, 115 out of 228 had stage III lung cancer; the new TNM-AJCC classification improved the identification of patients who could benefit from surgery.
Regular follow-up in breast cancer patients found that 38% experienced a recurrence, with 28% of these being detected without any symptoms, emphasizing the importance of follow-up care.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Puccia study water contamination?
Yes, he studies how contaminants like arsenate and phosphate interact with materials that can help improve water quality.
What cancer treatments has Dr. Puccia researched?
He has researched approaches for stage III lung cancer and breast cancer, focusing on surgical outcomes and follow-up care.
Is Dr. Puccia's work relevant to patients with lung or breast cancer?
Yes, his research provides valuable insights into treatment classification and follow-up care, improving patient management.
Publications in plain English
Surface speciation of phosphate on goethite as seen by InfraRed Surface Titrations (IRST).
2018
Spectrochimica acta. Part A, Molecular and biomolecular spectroscopy
Arroyave JM, Puccia V, Zanini GP, Avena MJ
Plain English This study investigated how phosphate interacts with goethite, a type of metal oxide, in water at different acidity levels (pH). Researchers used a new method called InfraRed Surface Titration (IRST) and found that at a pH of 5.5, a specific type of phosphate complex is more common, with distinct forms of phosphate appearing depending on the pH and surface coverage. This is important because understanding these interactions can help improve water quality and nutrient management in environments where phosphate is a concern.
Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and researchers working on water treatment and soil quality.
Arsenate adsorption and desorption kinetics on a Fe(III)-modified montmorillonite.
2011
Journal of hazardous materials
Luengo C, Puccia V, Avena M
Plain English This study looked at how well arsenate, a toxic form of arsenic, sticks to a special clay modified with iron called Fe(III)-modified montmorillonite. Researchers found that at a neutral pH of 6, this clay could hold onto 52 micromoles of arsenate per gram, which is less than other materials like ferrihydrite but, because of the low iron content in this clay, it actually binds arsenate more effectively. This is important because it shows that using this clay can help remove arsenate from contaminated water more efficiently than some alternatives.
Who this helps: This benefits water treatment facilities and communities affected by arsenic contamination in their water supply.
Carcinoma of the lung, stage III. Experience with the new TNM-AJCC classification.
1988
Scandinavian journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
Plaja S, Puccia V, Russo A, Sparacino G, La Rosa C +1 more
Plain English Researchers looked at the medical records of 228 patients who had surgery for lung cancer between 1970 and 1986. They found that 115 of these patients had stage III lung cancer, with 87 classified as stage IIIa (where surgery could help) and 28 as stage IIIb (where surgery is not recommended). This new way of classifying stage III lung cancer helps doctors identify which patients might benefit from surgery, potentially improving their chances of survival.
Who this helps: This helps patients with stage III lung cancer and their doctors.
Evaluation of routine follow-up after surgery for breast carcinoma.
1986
Journal of surgical oncology
Marrazzo A, Solina G, Puccia V, Fiorentino E, Bazan P
Plain English This study looked at 85 breast cancer patients who had surgery to remove tumors and evaluated how effective regular follow-up check-ups were in catching any return of the cancer. They found that 32 patients, or about 38%, had a recurrence of cancer, with 28% of those recurrences being detected when the patients had no symptoms. Most recurrences happened within the first two years after surgery, which suggests that not all follow-up tests need to be done too often for patients who feel fine.
Who this helps: This helps breast cancer patients and their doctors manage follow-up care more effectively.