Publications by authors named "M Ailen Natale"

Introduction: Gastrointestinal (GI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables simultaneous assessment of gastric peristalsis, emptying, and intestinal filling and transit. However, GI MRI in animals typically requires anesthesia, which complicates physiology and confounds interpretation and translation to humans. This study aimed to establish GI MRI in conscious rats, and for the first time, characterize GI motor functions in awake versus anesthetized conditions.

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  • Oral disorders in palliative care are common and negatively affect patients' quality of life, but there are few evidence-based treatments available.
  • This study investigated the effectiveness of a propolis-based product, combined with basic oral hygiene, in preventing and treating these disorders in patients with cancer or other illnesses.
  • Results showed significant improvements in oral health, pain reduction, and overall quality of life among patients, confirming that the treatment was safe and well-accepted.
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Introduction: Although familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is a relevant disease in countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, there are still few reports from Italy.

Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients with FMF diagnosed according to the EuroFever/PRINTO classification criteria in three pediatric rheumatology referral centers in central-southern Italy. Logistic regression analysis assessed the associations between age at disease onset and symptoms.

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  • Wastewater treatment plants are significant sources of microplastics in the environment, prompting research into more effective treatment methods.
  • This study evaluated a novel living membrane bioreactor (LMBR) and its electrochemically enhanced version (e-LMBR), which showed similar effectiveness in removing polyethylene microplastics compared to conventional methods, but with slight differences due to electrochemical processes.
  • The e-LMBR maintained high contaminant removal efficiencies, including organic matter and nutrients, and demonstrated lower fouling rates despite increased microplastic concentrations in the treatment system.
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Introduction: Gastrointestinal (GI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can simultaneously capture gastric peristalsis, emptying, and intestinal filling and transit. Performing GI MRI with animals requires anesthesia, which complicates physiology and confounds interpretation and translation from animals to humans. This study aims to enable MRI in conscious rats, and for the first time, characterize GI motor functions in awake versus anesthetized conditions.

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