Camposampiero

This research focuses on invasive bacterial diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae, which lead to severe health problems and frequent serious complications. The study aims to understand the epidemiology of these infections, including the distribution of bacterial strains, to better plan prevention and treatment strategies. It highlights the importance of monitoring these infections to guide public health actions, detect vaccine failures, and assess the impact of vaccination programs. The study uses molecular diagnostic testing on blood samples to identify the pathogens, even when traditional culture methods fail due to prior antibiotic use or sample handling issues. Molecular diagnosis allows for more accurate detection of these bacteria regardless of their viability in samples. This testing is conducted on patients from hospitals within and outside the Tuscany region as part of ongoing surveillance. Participants include both pediatric and adult patients diagnosed with invasive bacterial diseases caused by these bacteria. Researchers will track the incidence rates of infections caused by each pathogen over about one year. The study involves collecting biological samples for molecular testing and monitoring the presence and types of bacteria. This will help improve understanding of infection trends and support the development of better prevention and treatment approaches.

Researchers are evaluating the effect of timing for minimally invasive surgery following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with rectal cancer. The study aims to determine whether delaying surgery from the standard 8 weeks to 12 weeks after chemoradiation influences the rate of complete tumor response and impacts disease-free and overall survival. This multicenter, randomized controlled trial involves 332 patients and will recruit over 5 years with follow-up continuing for 5 years after the last patient is enrolled. Participants will be randomly assigned to undergo robotic-assisted or standard laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery either 8 weeks or 12 weeks after completing chemoradiotherapy. Both groups will receive minimally invasive surgery techniques such as low anterior resection, intersphincteric resection, or abdominoperineal resection. The study includes a detailed preoperative workup and standard neoadjuvant chemo and radiation therapy. Surgical timing is the main variable being compared between the two groups. During the trial, participants will complete baseline questionnaires before starting treatment and will be monitored throughout the study. Researchers will assess pathological complete response approximately 8 to 12 weeks after treatment, along with disease-free survival, overall survival, and quality of life. Follow-up will continue for 5 years to evaluate long-term outcomes. Safety and adherence to treatment will be closely observed during the study period.