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Diagnostic accuracy and reliable estimation of clinical evolution are challenging issues in the management of patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC). Longitudinal systematic investigations conducted in large cohorts of patients with DoC could make it possible to identify reliable diagnostic and prognostic markers. On the basis of this consideration, we devised a multicentre prospective registry for patients with DoC admitted to ten intensive rehabilitation units. The registry collects homogeneous and detailed data on patients' demographic and clinical features, neurophysiological and neuroimaging findings, and medical and surgical complications. Here we present the rationale and the design of the registry and the preliminary results obtained in 53 patients with DoC (vegetative state or minimally conscious state) enrolled during the first seven months of the study. Data at 6-month post-injury follow-up were available for 46 of them. This registry could be an important tool for collecting high-quality data through the application of rigorous methods, and it could be used in the routine management of patients with DoC admitted to rehabilitation settings.

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death and disability in the world. Many cardiovascular risk factors can be prevented. We assessed whether socio-economic factors are associated with individual preventive behaviours in Italy., Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of a nationally representative sample of 47,391 adults aged 40-69 years was undertaken using 2004-05 National Health Interview Survey data. Logistic regression models were developed to assess the association between socio-economic status (SES) and regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index and glycaemia. SES was estimated according to education and occupation., Results: SES was significantly associated with regular monitoring of risk factors for CVD. The most educated were more likely to monitor cholesterol levels than those with less education [men odds ratio (OR) 1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.46-1.86; women OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.19-1.55]. Individuals in the highest occupational class controlled weight more frequently than those disadvantaged with an OR of 1.24 (95% CI 1.04-1.49) for men and an OR of 1.26 (95% CI 1.12-1.42) for women., Conclusion: Socio-economic disparities in the prevention of risk factors for CVD were clearly observed among Italian adults, generally favouring higher socio-economic groups.