M D'Amora studies how well different blood tests can detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Specifically, they investigate the effectiveness of new tests in showing how many people have been infected with the virus in a given community. In their research, they analyzed blood samples from over 3,000 individuals in Italy, seeking to confirm the accuracy of these tests so that health authorities can make informed decisions about tracking infection rates and managing public health.
Key findings
M D'Amora's study found that approximately 2% of the population tested in Italy had antibodies indicating a previous COVID-19 infection, which was a lower rate than expected.
Five different blood tests were assessed for their accuracy, and most of them showed consistent results with each other, proving their reliability for measuring past infections.
The research suggests that these new antibody tests can effectively support public health efforts during the pandemic by providing a clearer picture of the infection rate.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. D'Amora study COVID-19?
Yes, Dr. D'Amora focuses on researching the virus that causes COVID-19 and how it has affected population infection rates.
What types of tests has Dr. D'Amora researched?
Dr. D'Amora has researched several blood tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 to see how well they perform in identifying past infections.
Is Dr. D'Amora's work relevant to understanding public health during the pandemic?
Absolutely. Their work provides important insights into the reliability of antibody tests, which are essential for tracking COVID-19 infections in the community.
Publications in plain English
Management of anaesthesia for transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation: an Italian interdisciplinary consensus statement.
2026
British journal of anaesthesia
Ajello V, Fresilli S, D'Amico F, Franceschini G, Aloisio T +18 more
Plain English This study focused on how to manage anesthesia during a specific heart procedure called transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), which is used for patients with severe aortic stenosis. The researchers, a group of experts from various medical fields, reviewed over a thousand scenarios and found that a minimally invasive approach with local anesthesia and conscious sedation is suitable for most patients, while more invasive methods should only be used for those at higher risk. Standardizing these practices can improve patient care and outcomes.
Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing TAVI, as well as their doctors who perform the procedure.
Perioperative management after transcatheter aortic valve replacement and postoperative delirium assessment: a nationwide Italian survey.
2026
Minerva anestesiologica
Russo FM, Fiorentini C, Sangalli F, Scolletta S, Martinez-Lopez DE Arroyabe B +25 more
Plain English This study looked at how hospitals in Italy manage patients who undergo Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) and how they assess the risk of delirium afterward. It found that only 36% of hospitals routinely checked for delirium after the procedure, and just 18% used a proper diagnostic tool for it. The lack of standard practices can lead to differences in patient recovery times and overall outcomes, highlighting the need for better guidelines.
Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing TAVR, ensuring they receive more consistent and effective care.
Longitudinal and Noninvasive Intracellular Recordings of Spontaneous Electrophysiological Activity in Rat Primary Neurons on Planar MEA Electrodes.
2025
Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
Melikov R, Iachetta G, d'Amora M, Melle G, Conti S +3 more
Plain English This study focused on a new method for recording signals from neurons in rats using a laser technique. Researchers found that they could capture important electrical signals from these neurons without causing damage, allowing them to make repeated measurements over several days. This is significant because it offers a way to study how neurons communicate and adapt in a more natural state than previous methods allowed.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers studying brain function and diseases affecting neural networks.
Electrode- and Label-Free Assessment of Electrophysiological Firing Rates through Cytochrome C Monitoring via Raman Spectroscopy.
2025
ACS sensors
Tentellino C, d'Amora M, Melikov R, Iachetta G, Bruno G +3 more
Plain English This study examined a new method to measure brain cell activity and chemical changes without using traditional electrodes or labels. Researchers found that higher levels of a molecule called cytochrome C were linked to increased neuron firing rates. This is important because it means scientists can better understand how toxic substances affect brain cells, leading to improved assessments of brain health.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying neurotoxicity and doctors treating conditions related to brain health.
Urinary Liver-Type Fatty Acid Binding Protein as a Postoperative Marker of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing EndovascularAortic Aneurysm Repair.
2025
Journal of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia
Abelardo D, Raimondo P, Santonocito C, Barile A, D'Amora M +11 more
Plain English This study looked at a substance called urinary liver-type fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP) to see if it could help detect kidney problems early after surgery for aortic aneurysms. Researchers found that about 24% of patients had high L-FABP levels within 6 and 24 hours after surgery, which strongly indicated kidney injury and was linked to shorter hospital stays. This is important because it means doctors can use L-FABP to identify patients at risk for kidney issues more accurately, allowing for quicker interventions.
Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from aortic aneurysm surgery and their doctors.
Gene expression kinetics in Sepsis After Cardiac Surgery (SACS): a multicentric prospective observational study.
2025
Journal of anesthesia, analgesia and critical care
Radice RP, Martelli G, D'Amora M, Dambruoso P, Paparella D +16 more
Plain English This study looked at how certain genes related to inflammation behave in patients who develop sepsis after heart surgery. Researchers found that 30 minutes into surgery, septic patients had significantly lower levels of two specific genes (IL10 and PD1) compared to non-septic patients. Understanding these gene patterns can help doctors identify patients at higher risk for sepsis and improve treatment strategies.
Who this helps: This research benefits patients undergoing heart surgery by helping doctors better monitor and manage sepsis risk.
Nongenetic Photostimulation of hiPSC Neurons Using Plasmonic Nanopyramids.
2025
ACS photonics
Melikov R, Iachetta G, Iarossi M, d'Amora M, Tentellino C +4 more
Plain English This study focused on improving the way scientists stimulate and record activity from human neurons made from stem cells. By using gold nanopyramids attached to special electrodes, the researchers increased the electrical response from neurons by over 30 times and made the electrodes more effective by reducing resistance by about 6 times. This technique allows for precise control of neuron activity with less interference, which is important for better understanding brain functions and developing new treatments.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on brain-related diseases and therapies.
A photo-inducible nano-switch for spatiotemporal controlled gene editing activation.
2025
Materials today. Bio
Konstantinidou S, d'Amora M, Rocco MA, Nocilla F, Debellis D +6 more
Plain English This study looked at a new tool for gene editing that can be precisely controlled using light. Researchers created a special nano-switch made of gold rods that, when activated by a laser, can make targeted changes to DNA. In tests on zebrafish embryos, the nano-switch successfully altered specific genes, proving it can edit genes when and where needed.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on gene therapies and genetic research.
Insights Into Perioperative Hypertension Management in Europe: Results From a Survey Endorsed by the European Association of Cardiothoracic Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (EACTAIC).
2024
Journal of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesia
Paternoster G, Sangalli F, de Arroyabe BML, Bertini P, Brizzi G +4 more
Plain English This study explored how doctors in Europe manage high blood pressure during surgeries, focusing on the practices of anesthesiologists and other specialists. Researchers surveyed 339 medical professionals and found that over half deal with high blood pressure in 20% to 50% of surgeries, mostly aiming for a blood pressure target of 120 to 140 mmHg. The preferred medications include alpha-blockers, nitrates, and calcium channel blockers, and treatment failures happen in less than 20% of cases.
Who this helps: This information is valuable for patients undergoing surgery and the healthcare providers who care for them.
The Central Noradrenergic System in Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Merging Experimental and Clinical Evidence.
2023
International journal of molecular sciences
Galgani A, Bartolini E, D'Amora M, Faraguna U, Giorgi FS
Plain English This paper looks at the role of a specific brain system, called the locus coeruleus-noradrenergic (LC-NA) system, in neurodevelopmental disorders (like autism and ADHD). Researchers found that this system is important for attention, stress response, and has links to these disorders, potentially affecting their development. They also introduced a new imaging technique to see the LC in living humans, which could help research and treatment possibilities.
Who this helps: This benefits patients with neurodevelopmental disorders and their doctors.
Passive Recording of Bioelectrical Signals from Non-Excitable Cells by Fluorescent Mirroring.
2023
Nano letters
Moreddu R, Boschi A, d'Amora M, Hubarevich A, Dipalo M +1 more
Plain English This study looked at a new way to track electrical signals from certain types of cells that don’t normally generate these signals, using a technique called optical mirroring. The researchers found that the presence of a specific type of cell, known as HEK-293, increased the fluorescence signal by 5.8% when placed on a special electrode. This discovery is important because it could lead to better methods for studying how cells behave, which is useful in medical diagnostics and drug testing.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on cell behavior and cancer treatments.
Zebrafish as an Innovative Tool for Epilepsy Modeling: State of the Art and Potential Future Directions.
2023
International journal of molecular sciences
D'Amora M, Galgani A, Marchese M, Tantussi F, Faraguna U +2 more
Plain English This paper explores how zebrafish can be used to better understand epilepsy, a condition that affects many people and has complicated underlying causes. Researchers found that zebrafish provide a faster and cheaper way to study epilepsy and test new seizure medications compared to traditional rodent models. They discovered that by using zebrafish, they can more easily induce seizures and conduct genetic modifications to study specific types of epilepsy, which could lead to new insights into the disease.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on new treatments for epilepsy.
Adjunctive use of oral MAF is associated with no disease progression or mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia: The single-arm COral-MAF1 prospective trial.
Spadera L, Lugarà M, Spadera M, Conticelli M, Oliva G +15 more
Plain English This study looked at how well an oral treatment called macrophage activating factor (MAF) works for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia when combined with standard care. Out of 97 patients who received MAF, none ended up needing intensive care or died during their hospital stay. The study showed that this treatment was safe and helped patients recover without serious side effects, which is important for improving COVID-19 care in hospitals.
Who this helps: This helps hospitalized COVID-19 patients seeking better recovery options.
Effects of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in Zebrafish.
2022
Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity
d'Amora M, Schmidt TJN, Konstantinidou S, Raffa V, De Angelis F +1 more
Plain English This study looked at how metal oxide nanoparticles (tiny particles used in various products) affect zebrafish throughout their life. The researchers found that these particles can be harmful, especially by causing oxidative stress, which can damage cells. This matters because understanding the risks helps us ensure that products containing these nanoparticles are safe for people and the environment.
Who this helps: This helps patients, manufacturers, and regulators by highlighting safety issues related to everyday products.
Toxicological Profile of Plasmonic Nanoparticles in Zebrafish Model.
2021
International journal of molecular sciences
d'Amora M, Raffa V, De Angelis F, Tantussi F
Plain English This research looked at the potential harmful effects of plasmonic nanoparticles, specifically gold and silver, using zebrafish as a model. The study found that these nanoparticles could be toxic during the development and adulthood of zebrafish, raising concerns about their safety despite their useful properties. Understanding these risks is important for ensuring the safe use of these materials in various technologies.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies working with nanotechnology.
In Vitro and In Vivo Biocompatibility of Boron/Nitrogen Co-Doped Carbon Nano-Onions.
2021
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
d'Amora M, Camisasca A, Arenal R, Giordani S
Plain English This study investigated the safety of a new material called boron/nitrogen co-doped carbon nano-onions (BN-CNOs) when interacting with living cells and embryos. Researchers found that BN-CNOs did not harm healthy or cancerous cells, and when tested on zebrafish embryos, there were also no negative effects observed. This is important because it shows that BN-CNOs could be safe for use in medical applications, like drug delivery or treatments.
Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors looking for safe new materials for medical use.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Assessed by Four Chemiluminescence Immunoassays and One Immunocromatography Test for SARS-Cov-2.
2021
Frontiers in public health
Cerino P, Gallo A, Pierri B, Buonerba C, Di Concilio D +20 more
Plain English Researchers tested 3,185 people in Italy using five different blood tests to detect antibodies showing they had been infected with COVID-19, comparing how well these tests matched each other's results. Most tests performed well and gave similar results, finding that about 2% of the population had been infected—a very low rate that explained why COVID was spreading so widely in the second wave. This comparison was important because these antibody tests were new and needed to be proven reliable before being used to track how many people in the community had actually had COVID.
Supramolecular functionalization of carbon nano-onions with hyaluronic acid-phospholipid conjugates for selective targeting of cancer cells.
2020
Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces
d'Amora M, Camisasca A, Boarino A, Arpicco S, Giordani S
Plain English Researchers studied carbon nano-onions (CNOs), which are tiny particles that can be used in medicine, to see if they could help selectively target cancer cells. They found that when CNOs were mixed with a special compound made from hyaluronic acid and phospholipids, they effectively targeted breast cancer cells that had a lot of CD44, a specific marker on some cancer cells. This targeting increased the CNOs' solubility and showed that they had minimal harm to healthy cells, with great compatibility when tested on zebrafish.
Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients, especially those with tumors overexpressing CD44.
Toxicological profile of calcium carbonate nanoparticles for industrial applications.
2020
Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces
d'Amora M, Liendo F, Deorsola FA, Bensaid S, Giordani S
Plain English This research studied the safety of calcium carbonate nanoparticles, which are made from a type of lime, to see if they're harmful to living organisms. The findings showed that these nanoparticles do not cause cell death or damage to the genetic material in lab tests, and zebrafish exposed to them grew normally without any problems. This is important because as the use of these materials increases in industry, confirming their safety can help prevent potential health risks.
Who this helps: This benefits patients, environmental regulators, and industries using these materials.
Graphene-Like Layers from Carbon Black: In Vivo Toxicity Assessment.
2020
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
d'Amora M, Alfe M, Gargiulo V, Giordani S
Plain English This study looked at a new material called graphene-like layers, which might be used in medicine and electronics, to see if they are safe for living organisms. Researchers tested these layers on embryonic zebrafish and found that they didn’t cause any harmful effects, showing they are compatible with living tissue. This finding is important because it suggests that graphene-like layers could be safely used in medical applications.
Who this helps: Patients and medical researchers.
Modulation of Efficient Diiodo-BODIPYPhototoxicity to Cancer Cells by Carbon Nano-Onions.
2020
Frontiers in chemistry
Bartelmess J, Milcovich G, Maffeis V, d'Amora M, Bertozzi SM +1 more
Plain English This study examined a new treatment for cancer called photodynamic therapy, which uses light to activate a special compound that kills cancer cells. Researchers found that a specific compound, known as diiodo-BODIPY, worked well in killing cancer cells when exposed to light, but when combined with carbon nano-onions, it did not have the same effect. These findings are important because they show how carbon materials can affect the effectiveness of cancer treatments, paving the way for better therapies.
Who this helps: This helps cancer patients and doctors looking for more effective treatment options.
Laser-Fabricated Fluorescent, Ligand-Free Silicon Nanoparticles: Scale-up, Biosafety, and 3D Live Imaging of Zebrafish under Development.
2019
ACS applied bio materials
d'Amora M, Rodio M, Sancataldo G, Diaspro A, Intartaglia R
Plain English This study focused on creating tiny silicon nanoparticles that can be easily produced and evaluated for safety in living zebrafish. Researchers found that these nanoparticles, which are about 10 nanometers in size, showed no harmful effects at various doses during the early stages of zebrafish development. The ability to track these nanoparticles in the fish helps scientists understand their movement and safety in biological systems.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and developers working on medical imaging and therapies.
Carbon Nano-Onions as Non-Cytotoxic Carriers for Cellular Uptake of Glycopeptides and Proteins.
2019
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
d'Amora M, Maffeis V, Brescia R, Barnes D, Scanlan E +1 more
Plain English This study looked at carbon nano-onions (tiny carbon structures) and their ability to safely carry important proteins and peptides into cells. Researchers found that when they attached a specific glycopeptide and a protein called bovine serum albumin to these carbon nano-onions, the combination was easily taken up by various cell types. This is important because it suggests that carbon nano-onions could be used to deliver therapeutic molecules inside cells in a safe and effective way.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and doctors working on drug delivery and treatment development for various diseases.
Zebrafish structural development in Mueller-matrix scanning microscopy.
2019
Scientific reports
Le Gratiet A, d'Amora M, Duocastella M, Marongiu R, Bendandi A +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how zebrafish develop at different stages by using a new type of imaging technique that doesn't require fluorescent dyes. The researchers found that they could accurately measure structural changes in the zebrafish embryos and larvae without damaging them using this low-light method. This is important because it allows scientists to study development more safely and effectively, potentially leading to better insights into how diseases affect growth and development.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying developmental biology and related diseases.
Fluorescent single-digit detonation nanodiamond for biomedical applications.
2018
Methods and applications in fluorescence
Nunn N, d'Amora M, Prabhakar N, Panich AM, Froumin N +7 more
Plain English Researchers studied a special type of tiny diamond particles called detonation nanodiamonds (DNDs) to see if they could be used for medical imaging. They found that these diamonds, which are only 4-5 nanometers wide, glow brightly when exposed to light and can easily enter breast cancer cells, making them suitable for tracking biological processes. This is important because it offers a cost-effective alternative to other similar materials and could improve how doctors observe and understand diseases at a cellular level.
Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by enhancing medical imaging techniques.
Biodistribution and biocompatibility of passion fruit-like nano-architectures in zebrafish.
2018
Nanotoxicology
d'Amora M, Cassano D, Pocoví-Martínez S, Giordani S, Voliani V
Plain English In this study, researchers looked at tiny particles shaped like passion fruit to see how they behave and whether they have any harmful effects when used in medical applications. They found that these particles do not cause death or developmental problems in zebrafish, and they are safely absorbed and target specific tissues without toxicity. This is important because it shows that these nano-architectures could be used in medical treatments without harming patients.
Who this helps: This helps patients who might benefit from new medical treatments using these safe nano-architectures.
Anesthetic consideration for airway management of patients undergoing endoscopic fibrin glue treatment of tracheobronchial rupture: a case series of three patients.
2018
Perioperative medicine (London, England)
Pota V, Sansone P, Fiorelli A, Passavanti MB, D'Amora M +4 more
Plain English This study looked at three patients with severe injuries to their trachea (the windpipe) and how different methods were used to manage their breathing during surgery. The doctors used various techniques, including a special mask and a specific type of tube, which helped protect the patients' airways, promote quicker healing, and allow them to start breathing on their own sooner. This is important because it shows effective ways to handle critical injuries that can be life-threatening.
Who this helps: This helps patients with tracheobronchial injuries and the doctors treating them.
The Utility of Zebrafish as a Model for Screening Developmental Neurotoxicity.
2018
Frontiers in neuroscience
d'Amora M, Giordani S
Plain English Researchers studied how zebrafish can be used to test the effects of chemicals on brain development, which is crucial because exposure to harmful substances can lead to serious neurological disorders like autism and Alzheimer's disease. They found that zebrafish are excellent for quickly testing many chemicals due to their small size, low cost, and transparent bodies, making it easier to observe their development. Using zebrafish in this way can help identify dangerous chemicals more effectively, which is essential for protecting human health.
Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk for neurological disorders and healthcare providers seeking safer environments.
The principles of Health Technology Assessment in laboratory medicine.
2017
Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine
Liguori G, Belfiore P, D'Amora M, Liguori R, Plebani M
Plain English This study looked at how Health Technology Assessment (HTA) is applied in laboratory medicine to evaluate health technologies, from tools to organizational changes. The researchers found that HTA effectively addresses various medical disciplines and helps ensure laboratory services meet population health needs while being efficient and affordable. This matters because improving laboratory services can lead to better patient care and resource use in healthcare systems.
Who this helps: Patients and healthcare providers.
Carbon nano-onions as fluorescent on/off modulated nanoprobes for diagnostics.
2017
Beilstein journal of nanotechnology
Lettieri S, d'Amora M, Camisasca A, Diaspro A, Giordani S
Plain English This study looked at a type of tiny carbon structure called carbon nano-onions (CNOs) and how they can be used for medical imaging. Researchers found that when these CNOs were modified with a special dye, they could change their brightness based on the acidity of their environment, meaning they could turn on and off quickly and reversibly. This discovery could help create better tools for diagnosing diseases by allowing doctors to see changes in pH levels in the body.
Who this helps: This benefits doctors and researchers who need advanced tools for diagnosing health issues.
Toxicity Assessment of Carbon Nanomaterials in Zebrafish during Development.
2017
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
d’Amora M, Camisasca A, Lettieri S, Giordani S
Plain English This study looked at how three types of carbon nanomaterials—oxidized carbon nano-onions, oxidized carbon nano-horns, and graphene oxide—affect the development of zebrafish. The researchers found that these materials can be toxic to zebrafish during their development, although specific harmful effects were not detailed in the summary. Understanding these effects is important because it helps us ensure the safety of carbon nanomaterials used in medical treatments.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers working in nanomedicine.
Two-Photon Excitation STED Microscopy with Time-Gated Detection.
2016
Scientific reports
Coto Hernández I, Castello M, Lanzanò L, d'Amora M, Bianchini P +2 more
Plain English This study looked at a new type of microscope that can take clearer pictures of tiny cell structures by using a technique called two-photon excitation stimulated emission depletion (2PE-STED) microscopy combined with a time-gated detection method. The researchers found that although the new setup initially reduced image clarity due to background noise, they developed a special computer algorithm to enhance the images, allowing for better pictures of small cellular details. This is important because clearer images can help scientists better understand how cells work and identify problems related to diseases.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and medical professionals studying cells and diseases.
Imaging in the Evaluation of Endoscopic or Surgical Treatment for Achalasia.
2016
Gastroenterology research and practice
Palladino D, Mardighian A, D'Amora M, Roberto L, Lassandro F +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how effective two treatments for achalasia—endoscopic pneumatic dilation and surgical Heller myotomy—are in improving the esophagus's function. Researchers found that the average change in the esophagus's width after surgery was a decrease of 2.1 mm, while after the endoscopic treatment, it increased by 1.74 mm. This shows that surgery is generally a better option for treating achalasia, especially for patients who can handle the procedure.
Who this helps: This helps patients with achalasia and their doctors in deciding the best treatment approach.
4D (x-y-z-t) imaging of thick biological samples by means of Two-Photon inverted Selective Plane Illumination Microscopy (2PE-iSPIM).
2016
Scientific reports
Lavagnino Z, Sancataldo G, d'Amora M, Follert P, De Pietri Tonelli D +2 more
Plain English This study focused on improving a microscopy technique called inverted selective plane illumination microscopy (iSPIM) to better view thick biological samples, like brain slices from mice. The researchers found that their method produced clearer images with better contrast due to reduced scattering, making it easier to see details in the tissue. This is significant because it allows scientists to study a wider variety of samples without damaging their structure, enhancing our understanding of complex biological systems.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying brain tissue and other complex biological samples.
PEGylated gold nanorods as optical trackers for biomedical applications: an in vivo and in vitro comparative study.
2016
Nanotechnology
Abdelrasoul GN, Magrassi R, Dante S, d'Amora M, d'Abbusco MS +2 more
Plain English This study looked at using gold nanorods (tiny particles made of gold) as tools for tracking biological processes in cells. Researchers found that these nanorods could enter cells efficiently, especially localized near the cell nucleus, and were relatively non-toxic, showing promise in both lab-grown cells and developing zebrafish. This matters because it indicates that gold nanorods could become useful for imaging and treating diseases without damaging cells.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and clinicians working on advanced imaging techniques and treatments for diseases.
Videofluoroscopy and oropharyngeal manometry for evaluation of swallowing in elderly patients.
2016
International journal of surgery (London, England)
Reginelli A, D'Amora M, Del Vecchio L, Monaco L, Barillari MR +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how well a combined test called videofluoromanometry (VFM) can detect swallowing problems in elderly patients, especially those who may not show any symptoms yet. The researchers found that this testing method helps identify issues early, which is important because swallowing difficulties can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and malnutrition. By catching these problems early, the right treatments can be given to improve patients' quality of life.
Who this helps: This helps elderly patients and their healthcare providers.
Gynecomastia: a common indication for mammography in men of all age.
2016
Acta bio-medica : Atenei Parmensis
Capasso R, Sica A, D'Amora M, Mostardi M, Martella I +6 more
Plain English This study looked at why men get mammograms, focusing on gynecomastia, which is the enlargement of male breast tissue. Researchers reviewed data from 37 men aged 13 to 79, finding that 32 of them (about 87%) truly had gynecomastia, while 5 had a similar condition. This is important because accurate diagnosis through mammograms can help ensure men get the right treatment for their breast-related symptoms.
Who this helps: This helps patients experiencing breast issues and their doctors in diagnosing the problem.
Biocompatibility and biodistribution of functionalized carbon nano-onions (f-CNOs) in a vertebrate model.
2016
Scientific reports
D' Amora M, Rodio M, Bartelmess J, Sancataldo G, Brescia R +3 more
Plain English This study explored the effects of functionalized carbon nano-onions (f-CNOs) on the development of zebrafish, focusing on survival, hatching, and heart rates. Researchers found that f-CNOs were not toxic and showed good compatibility at concentrations between 5 to 100 micrograms per milliliter, with a uniform distribution in the fish. This research is important because it shows that f-CNOs could be safe for use in medical applications involving imaging and treatment.
Who this helps: Patients who may benefit from advanced medical imaging and treatment options.
Gated CW-STED microscopy: a versatile tool for biological nanometer scale investigation.
2014
Methods (San Diego, Calif.)
Vicidomini G, Hernández IC, d'Amora M, Zanacchi FC, Bianchini P +1 more
Plain English This study developed a new type of STED microscopy, called gated CW-STED (gCW-STED), which allows scientists to take very detailed images of tiny structures within living cells at a resolution of less than 50 nanometers. This new method is faster and uses simpler equipment compared to traditional STED systems, making it more accessible for research. The findings are important because they enhance our ability to study complex biological processes in real time without needing expensive technology.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists studying cell biology and related fields.
A new filtering technique for removing anti-Stokes emission background in gated CW-STED microscopy.
2014
Journal of biophotonics
Coto Hernàndez I, Peres C, Cella Zanacchi F, d'Amora M, Christodoulou S +3 more
Plain English This research paper studied a new way to improve a type of advanced imaging called gated CW-STED microscopy, which helps scientists see tiny details in cells. The researchers developed a technique to remove unwanted background signals that can blur images, specifically a type of background known as anti-Stokes emission. They found that their method effectively enhances image clarity, which is crucial for better visualizing cellular structures.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists who rely on precise cellular imaging in their studies.
Safety profile and protocol prevention of adverse reactions to uroangiographic contrast media in diagnostic imaging.
2014
Journal of biological regulators and homeostatic agents
Rossi C, Reginelli A, D'Amora M, Di Grezia G, Mandato Y +4 more
Plain English This study looked at how often people have adverse reactions to a type of dye used in medical imaging called iodinated contrast media, especially in patients who have had allergic reactions before. Out of 100 patients at risk who received pre-treatment, only 1.7% experienced a mild reaction, with higher incidence (4 out of 5 patients) in those with a known allergy history. Understanding and managing these reactions is crucial for safely using contrast media in imaging.
Who this helps: This helps patients with a history of allergies to contrast media and their doctors.
Bossù M, Valletta A, Fiore R, Riccitiello F, D'Amora M +3 more
Plain English This study looked at the structure of baby teeth and how their root canals work. Researchers found that using a high-tech imaging method called micro-computed tomography (μCT) gives a clearer picture of the teeth's internal makeup compared to traditional methods, which can sometimes damage the teeth. Understanding the root canals better helps in treating these teeth effectively and safely, which is important to maintain children's dental health.
Who this helps: This helps dentists treating children and improves care for young patients with dental issues.
[Repair of a root perforation by using MTA: a case report].
2013
Recenti progressi in medicina
Riccitiello F, Di Caprio MP, D'Amora M, Pizza NL, Vallone G +2 more
Plain English This study looks at how effectively a material called Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA) can repair accidental holes (root perforations) in teeth during dental treatments. The research found that using MTA for this repair led to successful outcomes, as shown by X-ray results confirming healing and tissue regeneration. This is important because it provides a reliable method for treating these dental issues without needing more invasive surgeries.
Who this helps: This benefits dental patients who experience root perforations during treatment.
The impact of long-term exposure to space environment on adult mammalian organisms: a study on mouse thyroid and testis.
2012
PloS one
Masini MA, Albi E, Barmo C, Bonfiglio T, Bruni L +20 more
Plain English This study looked at how long-term exposure to space affects the thyroid and testis in male mice. The researchers found that in mice exposed to space, thyroid function was enhanced, with hormone production increasing, while testicular health declined, showing a nearly 90% drop in sperm counts compared to mice on the ground. These changes suggest that being in space could disrupt hormone regulation, which is important for understanding health risks for astronauts.
Who this helps: This research benefits astronauts and space agencies as they can better prepare for the health challenges of long-duration space missions.
New insights into the neuroanatomical distribution and phylogeny of opioids and POMC-derived peptides in fish.
2012
General and comparative endocrinology
Vallarino M, d'Amora M, Dores RM
Plain English This study looked at how different types of natural pain-relieving substances, called opioids, are distributed in the brains of various fish, including lobe-finned, ray-finned, and cartilaginous fish. The researchers found that a method using specific antibodies can effectively identify areas in the brain where these opioids and related peptides are present, revealing important connections in the brain related to pain and stress. Understanding these networks in fish helps scientists learn more about how these systems evolved, which can impact how we approach pain treatment in humans.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and medical researchers studying pain management and opioid functions.
Expression of PINK1 in the brain, eye and ear of mouse during embryonic development.
2011
Journal of chemical neuroanatomy
d'Amora M, Angelini C, Marcoli M, Cervetto C, Kitada T +1 more
Plain English This study examined how a protein called PINK1 is present in the brain, eye, and ear of developing mice. Researchers found two forms of PINK1 in the brain, which appeared at different stages of development: first in certain brain areas at 15 days after conception and then in more areas by day 19. This suggests PINK1 is important for the development of these organs.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors understand how specific proteins contribute to the development of the nervous system and sensory organs.
Comparison between multiplex PCR and phenotypic systems for Candida spp. identification.
2010
The new microbiologica
Liguori G, Gallé F, Lucariello A, Di Onofrio V, Albano L +3 more
Plain English This study looked at different methods for identifying Candida yeast, comparing three traditional tests and a new genetic test called multiplex PCR. They tested 450 samples and found that the multiplex PCR method was the most accurate, matching traditional test results about 83.7% of the time, particularly when using the API 20 C AUX system. This is important because faster and more accurate identification of Candida can help doctors provide better treatment, especially since some types are resistant to common antifungal medications.
Who this helps: Patients with Candida infections and their doctors.
Expression pattern of mUBPy in the brain and sensory organs of mouse during embryonic development.
2010
Brain research
d'Amora M, Angelini C, Aluigi MG, Marcoli M, Maura G +2 more
Plain English This study looked at a protein called mUBPy in mice during their development, focusing on the brain and sensory organs at various stages. The researchers found that mUBPy first appeared in the brain at around 11 days after conception, with significant activity in areas related to sensory processing, and it was found in the eyes and ears as well. These findings suggest that mUBPy plays a role in the brain's development and sensory organ formation, which is important for understanding how the brain and senses develop properly.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors working on developmental disorders in children.
The ratio between kidney volume and function increases with the progression of nephropathy in Type 2 diabetes.
2009
Clinical nephrology
Giordano M, Ciarambino T, Gesuè L, Castellino P, De Simone M +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how kidney size and function change in people with Type 2 diabetes as their kidney disease progresses. Researchers found that the ratio of kidney volume to kidney function increased significantly, going from about 15% in early stages of kidney disease to 53% in later stages. Additionally, higher kidney volumes were linked to increased levels of proteins in the urine, which indicates worsening kidney damage. This matters because understanding these relationships can help doctors better monitor kidney health in diabetic patients and potentially improve their care.
Who this helps: This helps patients with Type 2 diabetes and their healthcare providers.