Pneumococcal carriage in a large Sicilian sample population: impact on the current epidemiological scenario and implications for future vaccination strategies.

Introduction: is a prevalent and virulent global pathogen, with colonization being considered a precondition for pneumococcal disease. Understanding colonization is critical for gaining insights into transmission dynamics and developing effective interventions. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of nasopharyngeal colonization and serotype distribution in the Sicilian population.

Insights into Genetic and Antigenic Characteristics of Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 Viruses Circulating in Sicily During the Surveillance Season 2023-2024: The Potential Effect on the Seasonal Vaccine Effectiveness.

After disruption in the influenza circulation due to the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the intensity of seasonal outbreaks has returned to the pre-pandemic levels. This study aimed to evaluate the evolution and variability of whole-genome sequences of A(H1N1)pdm09, the predominant influenza virus in Sicily (Italy) during the season 2023-2024. The potential vaccine efficacy was calculated using the model based on amino acid changes in the dominant epitope of hemagglutinin.

Treatment and Staging Intensification Strategies Associated with Radical Prostatectomy for High-Risk Prostate Cancer: Efficacy Evaluation and Exploration of Novel Approaches.

The management of high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) presents a significant clinical challenge, often necessitating treatment intensification due to the potential presence of micrometastases. While radical prostatectomy (RP) constitutes one of the primary treatment modalities, the integration of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies suggests a paradigm shift towards more aggressive treatment strategies, also guided by new imaging modalities like positron emission tomography using prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA-PET). Despite the benefits, treatment intensification raises concerns regarding increased side effects.