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In this work, the formation flight of the CubeSat cluster RODiO (Radar for Earth Observation by synthetic aperture DIstributed on a cluster of CubeSats equipped with high-technology micro-propellers for new Operative services) with respect to a small satellite in LEO (Low Earth Orbit) has been analyzed. RODiO is an innovative mission concept funded by the Italian Space Agency (ASI) in the context of the Alcor program. The small satellite is equipped with an antenna that allows it to function as a transmitter, whereas RODiO functions as a receiver. The extension of the virtual SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) antenna can be achieved by establishing an along-track baseline performing an orbital coplanar maneuver. Another interesting scenario is the possibility to create a cross-track baseline performing an inclination change maneuver. Such formation reconfiguration maneuvers can be achieved in relatively short times only by use of a high-thrust propulsion system, i.e., based on conventional chemical technologies. From the study of maneuvers, it is possible to identify the required ∆V(order of magnitude of 10 m/s), which represents an input parameter for the design of propulsion system. Among the different kinds of propulsion systems, a Hybrid Rocket Engine was chosen. Based on the previous experience acquired by Department of Industrial Engineering (University of Naples Federico II), the preliminary design of the thrust chamber for a Hybrid Rocket Engine based on Hydrogen Peroxide (91 wt%) of the 10 N-class could be carried out, whose dimensions meet the compactness requirements of the CubeSat (1.5 U, 2 kg).

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As building practices change, procedures that seemed indispensable at one point can be abandoned for others, one example of which is the bill of quantities (B/Q). Research into the extant literature attributes the declining use of B/Qs to a multitude of reasons, such as its complexity, the potentially long time required to produce it, the growth in popularity of non-traditional procurement systems, and the challenge of using the information within the document in a construction schedule. With these issues in mind, building information modeling (BIM) and virtual reality (VR) are combined and proposed as a potential solution that allows inclusion of the client into the design process. Following a literature review and precedent study, an experiment was carried out using this new process to simulate a client’s design decisions on window and interior furnishings. The choices made by the client using VR automatically updated a B/Q schedule built in Revit and allowed them to have a firm understanding of project costs. Besides giving the client more confidence in a pleasing final outcome, the technology also ensured an up-to-date, accurate, and easily understandable B/Q. The proposed method features great potential savings in cost and time and gives the B/Q a newfound importance in future construction processes. The research case presented in this paper is a stepping stone in exploring new opportunities offered by VR and BIM and how they could improve the reliability and accuracy of traditional procurement within construction, specifically within the B/Q document.

Introduction: Hyperkalemia, one of the most important electrolyte abnormalities of chronic kidney disease (CKD), often limits the use of renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors and can increase in the postprandial period. In this study we report a real-world experience with the new non-adsorbed potassium binder patiromer in stage 3b-4 CKD patients. Moreover, we performed a cross-sectional analysis to evaluate, for the first time, the efficacy of patiromer in the control of postprandial potassium concentrations. Methods: We retrospectively collected data of 40 patients at the time of patiromer initiation (T0), and after 2 (T2), 6 (T6) and 12 (T12) months of treatment. For cross sectional analysis, a blood sample was collected 2 h after the main meal for the evaluation of postprandial potassium concentrations. Results: Eighty-two point five percent of patients (33/40) reached normal potassium concentrations at T2. Serum potassium significantly decreased at T2 compared to T0 (5.13 ± 0.48 vs 5.77 ± 0.41 mmol/L, respectively; p< 0.001) and the reduction remained significant during the follow-up (5.06 ± 0.36 at T6 and 5.77 ± 0.41 at T12; p< 0.001 vsT0). Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors were continued by 93% of patients (27/29). Adverse events were reported in 27.5% of patients and were all mild-to-moderate. Postprandial potassium concentrations did not significantly change compared to fasting state potassium measured at T12 (4.53 ± 0.33 vs 5.06 ± 0.36 mmol/L; p= 0.15). Conclusions: In a real-world setting of advanced CKD patients, patiromer is a useful treatment for hyperkalemia, since it significantly reduces serum potassium levels over the long term and is able to maintain potassium concentrations in the normal range even in the post-prandial period. Graphical abstract:

Characterizing the electron transport layer (ETL)/perovskite interface in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is of paramount importance for their overall performance. In this article the effect of different concentrations of graphene nanoplatelets in addition to SnO2 is investigated by considering degradation over time. PSCs behavior is monitored by collecting dark current–voltage curves as fabricated and after two months. A deeper insight is gained through impedance spectroscopy analysis. From Nyquist plots equivalent circuit models and the corresponding time constants are extracted. Moreover, resistive part of the impedance associated with high frequency has been related to static shunt resistance, assessing one of the considered ETL doping concentration as the more suitable choice to reduce degradation.

Purpose: This study is to use a simple algorithm based on patient’s age to reduce the overall biological detriment associated with PET/CT. Materials and Methods: A total of 421 consecutive patients (mean age 64 ± 14 years) undergoing PET for various clinical indications were enrolled. For each scan, effective dose (ED in mSv) and additional cancer risk (ACR) were computed both in a reference condition (REF) and after applying an original algorithm (ALGO). The ALGO modified the mean dose of FDG and the PET scan time parameters; indeed, a lower dose and a longer scan time were reported in the younger, while a higher dose and a shorter scan time in the older patients. Moreover, patients were classified by age bracket (18–29, 30–60, and 61–90 years). Results: The ED was 4.57 ± 0.92 mSv in the REF condition. The ACR were 0.020 ± 0.016 and 0.0187 ± 0.013, respectively, in REF and ALGO. The ACR for the REF and ALGO conditions were significantly reduced in males and females, although it was more evident in the latter gender (all p< 0.0001). Finally, the ACR significantly reduced from the REF condition to ALGO in all three age brackets (all p< 0.0001). Conclusion: Implementation of ALGO protocols in PET can reduce the overall ACR, mainly in young and female patients.

It is the oldest portolan chart, by an unknown author, today kept at the National Library in Paris. The Pisan Chart is a cartographic monument of great historical, nautical, geographical, mathematical, artistic and educational meaning. Some aspects of the map of particular geometric and geographical interest are examined in this article, where a hypothesis about its author is discussed. Some didactic aspects relating to the geometry of the Pisan map are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of teacher agency need analytical frameworks with processual and collective perspectives in support of the transformation of educational institutions and practitioners. The framework of transformative agency by double stimulation (TADS) from cultural-historical activity theory is used as a lens to inquire how a Change Laboratory in initial teacher education in China supported teacher agency. Our analysis traces the occurrence of the TADS phases during six online Change Laboratory sessions and the distribution of these phases among 13 participants and two researchers, moving toward a major transformation of the institutional strategies for mentoring school placement. Our findings verify the usability of the TADS model for capturing transformative teacher agency as a stepwise process. The analysis shows the nonlinear character of the TADS process, requiring adaptation to context-specific contingencies. The distribution of TADS phases among the participants and researchers reveals the collective and relational nature of teacher agency in transformation efforts.

A novel method to reduce the external memory needed by an MPEG-2 HDTV decoder architecture is presented and discussed. The total amount of memory is reduced from 96 to 32 Mbits preserving a good picture quality. Furthermore the approach chosen maintains a low hardware complexity and increases of less than 5%, in 0.35 [[micro]meter] technology, the total decoder silicon area with respect to the standard decoder.

In recent years, caps with PVC-free gasket have been developed and produced in the preserved food sector and they have been gradually replacing PVC-based ones. This type of choice was dictated by the need to produce sustainable packaging from a health and environmental point of view, even in the case of this type of closure. The study dealt with two type of caps, coded “A” and “B”, with two type of PVC-free gaskets, which differ in composition and application technology. In particular, the objective of this work was to study the behaviour of these new gaskets applied to metal caps intended for packaging preserved food, both in terms of suitability for food contact and from a technological standpoint. The gaskets were primarily characterized from a chemical–physical and mechanical point of view; overall migration and ad hoc methods for the determination of the specific migration of the substances present in their formulation were set up. In parallel, the technological suitability, related to the sealing parameters of the caps applied to the glass jars and the tightness of the packs, were evaluated. About food contact compliance, both caps, comply with the Union guidelines on Regulation (UE) n. 10/2011 on overall and specific migration. From the technological point of view, for gasket coded “A”, critical issues, the vacuum seal and, therefore, the tightness of the packages were highlighted.

Introduction The performance of silicon BJTs for microwave applications has been significantly enhanced in recent years through the use of PSA processes. The polysilicon emitter technology provides a simple means [...]

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of intellectual capital (IC) efficiency on the financial performance of Italian banks within and after the non-performing loans (NPLs) crisis. The VAIC approach is employed to measure IC efficiency. Several fixed-effects regression models have been estimated to examine the relationship between IC, its components and Italian banks financial performance for a seven-year span (2012-2018), including the period within (2012-2015) and after (2016-2018) the NPLs financial crisis. The paper reveals that IC efficiency positively influences Italian banks financial performance irrespective of NPLs crisis. In particular, it seems that the value creation ability of Italian banks is widely attributed to an appropriate combination and management of both human capital and capital employed efficiency. This is the first study that empirically assesses the impact of IC on the financial performance of Italian banks both within and after the NPLs crisis.

Secondary (functional) mitral regurgitation (SMR) most commonly arises secondary to left ventricular (LV) dilation/dysfunction. The concept of disproportionately severe SMR was proposed to help explain the different results of two randomised trials of transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (TEER) versus medical therapy. This concept is based on the fact that effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) depends on LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), ejection fraction, regurgitant fraction and the velocity-time integral of SMR. This review focuses on the haemodynamic framework underlying the concept and the myths and misconceptions arising from it. Each component of EROA/LVEDV is prone to measurement error which can result in misclassification of individual patients. Moreover, EROA is typically measured at peak systole rather than its mean value over the duration of MR. This can result in physiologically impossible values of EROA or regurgitant volume. Although the EROA/LVEDV ratio (1) emphasises that grading MR severity needs to consider LV size and function and (2) helps explain the different outcomes between COAPT and MITRAFR, there are important factors that are not included. Among these are left atrial compliance, LV pressure and ejection fraction, pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular function and tricuspid regurgitation. Because medical therapy can reduce LV volumes and improve both LV function and SMR severity, the key to patient selection is forced titration of neurohormonal antagonists to the target doses that have been proven in clinical trials (along with cardiac resynchronisation when appropriate). Patients who continue to have symptomatic severe SMR after doing so should be considered for TEER.

Purpose: This study aims to analyse the extent and type of online intellectual capital (IC) disclosure provided by a sample of 117 Italian listed companies. The study also seeks to identify possible determinants of the extent and type of intellectual capital disclosure (ICD) practiced by Italian listed companies via the Web. Design/methodology/approach: A content analysis is conducted to investigate the extent and type of online ICD provided through websites by a sample of 117 Italian listed companies. Two multivariate ordinary least squares regression models are applied to estimate the associations proposed in the research hypotheses. Findings: The results show that Italian listed companies are exploiting the potential of websites to satisfy the information needs of investors and other stakeholders in relation to strategic IC-based corporate resources, with a particular focus on external capital. For the most part, ICD is conveyed in narrative form. Moreover, while the size and board independence positively affect both the extent and type of ICD, profitability exerts a positive influence only on the extent of online ICD. Originality/value: Unlike previous ICD studies, which focussed on annual reports, this study explores an emerging and innovative tool to convey ICD, namely, the website. In today’s world, websites are considered to be the most expedient and effective tools for sharing and transmitting information, including IC; they are a vehicle that can shift the IC focus from the organisation to the wider ecosystem.

Objective: The aims of the present study were: (a) to obtain new normative data of the Italian version of the Mini-Mental Examination State (MMSE) (Measso et al. in Dev Neuropsychol 9:77–85, 1993) by administering the tool to a sample of normal Italian individuals more representative of the current Italian population; (b) to compare the sensitivity of this tool in detecting patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (AD according to NIA-AA), as compared to the those reported in previous normative Italian studies. Methods: MMSE was administered to 314 normal subjects recruited among individuals (and/or their relatives) attending the Offices of General Practitioners (GP) or Memory Clinics in Campania (Italy) by convenience sampling. A group of 47 patients with AD were included into the study. The effect of demographic variables on the raw MMSE scores of normal subjects was checked by multiple linear regression assuming MMSE scores as dependent variable and age, gender and education as the independent one(s). Therefore, a simultaneous regression model was constructed to correct the raw scores according the sensitive variables. Correction grid and equivalent scores were devised to classify subject’s performance. Results: The mean raw MMSE score was 27.78 (SD = 1.80) (range 22–30/30). There was no significant difference between scores achieved by men or women (p= 0.688). Multiple linear regression analysis showed a significant effect of age and years of school attendance on the MMSE raw score, whereas gender did not show any significant effect. The cutoff score, distinguishing between pathological and normal performances, was fixed at the fifth centile corresponding to 24.9/30, higher than the current score of 23.8/30. The new cutoff value was able to identify 44/47 patients with AD, in contrast to 38/47 subjects detected by currently used norms. Conclusions: (1) A more updated and representative population sample; (2) a new cutoff threshold able to distinguish between normal and pathological performances; (3) a correction grid that reduces the risk of false-positive and false-negative values due to the influence of the main demographic factors; (4) greater sensitivity, compared to previous Italian normative studies in identifying people with dementia.

Purpose: The present research aims to analyse the extent to which Italian public universities disclose intellectual capital (IC) information through the Integrated Plan and the main features of IC disclosure (ICD) in terms of form and location in the document. Design/methodology/approach: Adopting a qualitative methodology, a content analysis is conducted to examine the level, form and location of ICD provided by a sample of 60 Italian public universities through the 2018-2020 integrated plans. Findings: The results show a medium level of ICD in the Integrated Plan, with human capital being the category most disclosed. Information is principally provided in a quantitative form and is mainly found in the first two sections of the document (i.e. relating to the strategic framework and organisational performance). Research limitations/implications: The analysis is necessarily limited to a single period (2018-2020), because of the recent introduction of the guidelines of the Integrated Plan. However, the results may be beneficial to policymakers in determining the usefulness of this new tool in detecting information about intangible resources and can help universities’ governors and managers in defining adequate IC strategies to create value for the whole ecosystem. Originality/value: The study makes an innovative contribution to the international debate about IC in universities in light of the fourth stage of IC research, exploring an emerging tool to detect whether it is able to convey IC information to the wide range of university stakeholders and to communicate the value universities contribute to society.

The occurrence of modulation-specific effects after co-exposures to radio-frequency (RF) and other agents has been discussed in the literature. In this paper, the influence of modulation and bandwidth in eliciting the DNA damage of RF alone and in combination with mitomycin-C (MMC) is analyzed in human lymphocytes. Blood cultures from healthy donors were exposed to 1950 MHz, and continuous wave (CW), wideband direct-sequence code division multiple access (WCDMA, 4.5 MHz bandwidth), and additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN, 9 MHz bandwidth) signals were considered. For each signal, specific absorption rate (SAR) values of 0.15, 0.3, 0.6, 1.25 W/kg were tested. RF exposure alone never induced DNA damage in the micronucleus assay. When RF exposure was followed by MMC treatment, the effect depended on modulation and bandwidth. CW exposure never altered the MMC-induced DNA damage, while such damage was reduced when either signals WCDMA at 0.3 W/kg SAR or AWGN at 0.15 and 0.3 W/kg were applied. These results indicate the influence of modulation for the occurrence of the protective effect, with a relation between the bandwidth and the power absorbed by samples. If confirmed in vivo, clinical applications using modulated RF signals could be devised to protect cells from side effects of therapeutic treatments.

The growing importance of DNA-encoded chemical libraries (DECLs) as tools for the discovery of protein binders has sparked an interest for the development of efficient screening methodologies, capable of discriminating between high- and medium-affinity ligands. Here, we present a systematic investigation of selection methodologies, featuring a library displayed on single-stranded DNA, which could be hybridized to a complementary oligonucleotide carrying a diazirine photoreactive group. Model experiments, performed using ligands of different affinity to carbonic anhydrase IX, revealed a recovery of preferential binders up to 10%, which was mainly limited by the highly reactive nature of carbene intermediates generated during the photo-cross-linking process. Ligands featuring acetazolamide or p-phenylsulfonamide exhibited a higher recovery compared to their counterparts based on 3-sulfamoyl benzoic acid, which had a lower affinity toward the target. A systematic evaluation of experimental parameters revealed conditions that were ideally suited for library screening, which were used for the screening of a combinatorial DECL library, featuring 669 240 combinations of two sets of building blocks. Compared to conventional affinity capture procedures on protein immobilized on solid supports, photo-cross-linking provided a better discrimination of low-affinity CAIX ligands over the background signal and therefore can be used as a tandem methodology with the affinity capture procedures.

Lipomyces starkeywere able to survive and proliferate in the presence of olive oil mill wastewaters (OMW), a medium difficult to process by biological treatments, due to the antimicrobial activities of their phenolic components. The microorganisms were grown in the presence of undiluted OMW, without external organic supplements, producing a significant reduction of both the total organic carbon (TOC) and the total phenols content. The OMW treated by L. starkeyshowed a significant increase of the germination index. The preliminary dilution of OMW enhanced the reduction of polluting components of OMW, leading to a complete TOC removal, as well as to lower levels of residual phenols. The activities of extracellular lipases and esterases significantly increased in the course of the OMW fermentation. A significant increase in lipid yield was observed in L. starkeyin the course of the OMW treatment, particularly enhanced when the feedstock was preliminarily diluted. The fatty acid distribution showed a prevalence of oleic acid, demonstrating the potential of L. starkeyias a source of lipids to be used as a feedstock for the synthesis of II generation biodiesel.

Architectural heritage manifests both structural and energy deficiencies with respect to the requirements stated in the technical codes. Nowadays, among the possible strengthening solutions, it is of great interest the use of the fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM), which consists in a fibrous mesh grid embedded in a mortar (inorganic matrix). The FRCMs may ensure simultaneous advantages recognizable in static and insulation improvements. Thus, it is reasonable to design the FRCM-application by considering both the mechanical and the energy properties. In this scenario, the goal of the research is to experimentally determine the mechanical and the thermal capacities of FRCM-matrices. In such way, the correlation between the proportion of the constituents and the effectiveness (structural and energetic) of the system is investigated. In detail, the FRCM-matrices were characterized by compressive and flexural tests, as well as, by thermal conductivity measurements. In particular, different percentages in volume of aggregates were replaced with recycled materials (i.e. waste tire rubber), in order to quantify the possible decrease in the mechanical strength and the enhancement of the thermal insulation with respect to the substitution rates.

Aims The aim of our study was to assess the clinical significance of the exercise stress testing endpoints, namely 85% of maximal theoretical heart rate (MTHR), metabolic equivalent of task, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and their relation to electrocardiographic (ECG) changes in a healthy adult population.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 408 males and 52 females (mean age 39.4 ± 8.6 years) who performed the maximal cycle ergometer exercise stress test until volitional exhaustion, reporting the RPE score at 85% of MTHR and at peak exercise. Metabolic equivalents of task were indirectly calculated from the maximum workload and compared with the predicted values. Sitting torso-lead ECG and blood pressure were recorded at rest, during exercise and during recovery.Results Of 460 participants, 73% exceeded 85% of MTHR. The RPE score represented the overall most significant endpoint of exercise stress testing, with the median value of 17 at peak exercise. ECG events were detected in 23/124 (18.5%) who reached ≤ 85% of MTHR and in 61/336 (18.2%) who achieved >85% of MTHR (p= 0.92). In the latter group, 54% of ECG changes occurred at < 85% of MTHR and 46% at > 85% of MTHR (p= 0.51). If the exercise stress testing had been interrupted at ≤ 85% of MTHR, almost half of the ECG events would have remained undetected and 35% of the cardiovascular abnormalities observed at the diagnostic follow-up would have remained undiagnosed.Conclusion Terminating exercise stress testing before volitional exhaustion and an RPE score of 17 limits the test accuracy and reduces the possibility to detect cardiovascular abnormalities in apparently healthy adult populations.

The functional properties of metal oxide semiconductors depend on intrinsic and extrinsic defects. The population of intrinsic defects is strongly affected by the synthesis method and subsequent treatments of the material, while extrinsic defects can originate from suitable doping. Stoichiometric ZrO2is a nonreducible oxide with a large band gap. Therefore, controlling and modulating its defect profile to induce energy states in the band gap is the sole possibility to make it a photocatalyst responsive to visible light. We report a method, based on low temperature sol–gel synthesis coupled with treatments performed in mild conditions, to obtain undoped visible light-responsive ZrO2–x. The electronic structure of these materials is interpreted in relation to their oxygen vacancy defect population. On the basis of a wide set of experimental measurements (X-ray photoelectron, steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence, electron paramagnetic resonance, and UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy) and supported by density functional theory calculations, we demonstrate, for the first time, the predominance of positively charged F-center oxygen vacancies that do not give rise to Zr3+species.

A rapid, specific, and sensitive method based on quick polar pesticide extraction and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry with an Orbitrap analyzer was evaluated. Usually, pesticides were analyzed individually using derivatization or ion-pairing techniques and detection by ion chromatography. We identified and simultaneously quantified 6 highly polar compounds (glyphosate, aminomethyl phosphonic acid (AMPA), phosphonic acid, fosetyl-Al, chlorate, and perchlorate) in 83 processed fruits and vegetables as well as 15 infant foods. Isotopically labeled internal standards 18O4-perchlorate, 18O3-chlorate, and 13C215N-glyphosate were applied to quantify five polar compounds and to compensate for any factor affecting the recovery rates. Only AMPA was quantified using a standard addition approach to compensate for matrix effects. This analytical methodology is fast and reliable, and it is also able to satisfy the strict requirements of infant food analysis.

ABSTRACTBackground:To evaluate the impact of various measurements of paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) on survival after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). PVR can be difficult to grade and both its incidence and impact on survival may be decreasing as TAVR evolves.Methods:This retrospective study included 911 patients undergoing TAVR in two institutions. PVR was graded according to the 3-grade scheme proposed by the guidelines (PVR grade), and subsequently grade 2 and 3, and grade 0 and 1 were lumped together. PVR was also graded as a composite score (PVR score), based on 6 commonly used metrics. PVR grade, PVR score and its six individual components were tested against the risk of both 1-year and longer term mortality after TAVR.Results:Patients with moderate/severe PVR had a higher Society of Thoracic Sugeons (STS) score, higher levels of serum creatinine and larger left atria compared to patients with none/mild PVR. Moderate/severe PVR was more frequent with self-expandable and larger valves. After adjusting for American College of Cardiology (ACC) TAVR risk score, neither PVR grade, PVR score nor its six components were associated with an increased risk of mortality at 1-year (severe PVR adjusted HR: 0.75, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.19, 3.01, p= 0.50). However, intervention for clinically severe PVR increased the risk of mortality by more than 7-fold (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 7.6, 95% CI: 2.4, 23.5, p< 0.0001).Conclusions:In the contemporary era, moderate-severe PVR is uncommon. However, re-intervention for PVR portends a poor prognosis. This highlights the crucial importance of clinical judgment over imaging alone.

Introduction: Haemophilia A (HA) is characterized by spontaneous or traumatic recurrent bleedings, especially in joints and muscles, which can cause haemophilic arthropathy, impaired function, and in turn, reduce physical and social activities and negatively impact the quality of life (Franchini M at al., Semin Thromb Hemost, 2022 Nov; Mannucci PM et al., N Engl J Med, 2001 Jun). Despite regular physical activity (PA) being strongly recommended by guidelines as a key element to improve well-being and mental health, the perception of an associated increased risk of bleeding and bleed-related issues discourage people with hemophilia A (PWHA) (Makris M at al, Haemophilia, 2013 Jan; Matlary RED at al., Haemophilia, 2022 Nov; Srivastava A et al., Haemophilia, 2020 Aug 1)

The rising prevalence of obesity and metabolic disorders worldwide highlights the urgent need to find new long-term and clinically meaningful weight-loss therapies. Here, we evaluate the therapeutic potential and the mechanism of action of a biomimetic cellulose-based oral superabsorbent hydrogel (OSH). Treatment with OSH exerts effects on intestinal tissue and gut microbiota composition, functioning like a protective dynamic exoskeleton. It protects from gut barrier permeability disruption and induces rapid and consistent changes in the gut microbiota composition, specifically fostering Akkermansia muciniphilaexpansion.The mechanobiological, physical, and chemical structures of the gel are required for A. muciniphilagrowth. OSH treatment induces weight loss and reduces fat accumulation, in both preventative and therapeutic settings. OSH usage also prevents liver steatosis, immune infiltration, and fibrosis, limiting the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Our work shows the potential of using OSH as a non-systemic mechanobiological approach to treat metabolic syndrome and its comorbidities.

In this study, a novel TiO2/Ti3C2/MnFe2O4magnetic photocatalyst with dual properties, enabling (i) improved photocatalytic degradation with PMS activation under simulated solar light and (ii) magnetic separation after the degradation process in an external magnetic field was developed and applied for the efficient photodegradation pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) frequently present in wastewater and surface waters worldwide. MXene was used as a Ti precursor for anatase/rutile synthesis and as a co-catalyst in the photodegradation process. Manganese ferrite with ferrimagnetic properties was coupled with the TiO2/Ti3C2composite to facilitate the magnetic separation after the purification process in an external magnetic field. Moreover, MnFe2O4was used for PMS activation, producing •SO4-radicals with a strong oxidation ability and higher redox potential of 2.5–3.1 V (vs. NHE) than •OH radicals with a standard oxidation–reduction potential of 2.8 V. The effect of the manganese ferrite content in the composite structure (5 wt% and 20 wt%) on the physicochemical properties and photocatalytic activity of the magnetic photocatalyst was investigated. Furthermore, the most photocatalytic active composite of TiO2/MXene/5%MnFe2O4was used for peroxymonosulphate-assisted photocatalytic degradation of ibuprofen and carbamazepine. The effect of peroxymonosulphate concentration (0.0625 mM, 0.125 mM, and 0.25 mM) and the synergistic effect of PMS activation on photocatalytic degradation was studied. Based on the obtained results, it was found that TiO2/MXene/5%MnFe2O4/PMS process is an efficient advanced treatment technology for the oxidation of emerging contaminants that are not susceptible to biodegradation. Carbamazepine and ibuprofen were completely degraded within 20 min and 10 min of the PMS-assisted photodegradation process under simulated solar light. The trapping experiments confirmed that •SO4-and •O2-are the main oxidising species involved in the CBZ degradation, while •SO4-and h+in the IBP degradation. Furthermore, introducing interfering ions of Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl-, and SO42–in the model seawater did not affect the removal efficiency of both pharmaceuticals. In terms of reusability, the performance of the TiO2/MXene/5%MnFe2O4/PMS photocatalyst was stable after four subsequent cycles of carbamazepine and ibuprofen degradation.

In this work, we numerically investigate the dynamics of the growth and impingement of two gas bubbles in a Newtonian liquid in the presence of a rigid spherical particle. The computational analysis is carried out through 3D Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (ALE) Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations. During their growth, as the bubbles start to ‘feel’ each other, they lose their spherical shape, with the side facing the other bubble becoming almost flat. In the liquid layer between the gas inclusions, an essentially biaxial extensional flow takes place. Depending on its initial position with respect to the bubbles, the solid particle can be ‘captured’ by the coalescing bubbles or ‘escape’ them. The effects of the physical and geometrical parameters of the system on such phenomenon are studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: An innovative approach to the treatment of tendon injury or degeneration is given by engineered grafts, made available through the development of bioreactors that generate tendon tissue in vitro, by replicating in vivo conditions. This work aims at the design of a bioreactor capable of applying a stimulation of cyclic strain on cell constructs to promote the production of bioartificial tissue with mechanical and biochemical properties resembling those of the native tissue.Methods: The system was actuated by an electromagnet and design specifications were imposed as follows. The stimulation protocol provides to scaffolds a 3% preload, a 10% deformation, and a stimulation frequency rate set at 0.5, 1, and 2 Hz, which alternates stimulation/resting phases. Porcine tenocytes were seeded on collagen scaffolds and cultured in static or dynamic conditions for 7 and 14 days.Results: The culture medium temperature did not exceed 37°C during prolonged culture experiments. The applied force oscillates between 1.5 and 4.5 N. The cyclic stimulation of the engineered constructs let both the cells and the scaffold fibers align along the strain direction in response to the mechanical stimulus.Conclusion: We designed a pulsatile strain bioreactor for tendon tissue engineering. The in vitro characterization shows a preferential cell alignment at short time points. Prolonged culture time, however, seems to influence negatively on the survival of the cells indicating the need of further optimization concerning the culture conditions and the mechanical stimulation.

β-Glucosidase (BG) was immobilized by adsorption on wrinkled silica nanoparticles (WSNs) giving an active and stable biocatalyst for the hydrolysis of cellobiose. WSNs exhibiting both a central-radial pore structure and a hierarchical trimodal micro-/mesoporous pore size distribution were synthesized. They were used as a matrix to immobilize BG, obtaining a biocatalyst (BG/WSNs) containing 150 mg of enzyme per gram of matrix. A complete textural and morphological characterization of BG/WSNs performed by the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method, thermogravimetric (TG), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses showed that this matrix can generate a microenvironment particularly suitable for this enzyme. The immobilization procedure used allowed preserving most of the secondary structure of the enzyme and, consequently, its catalytic activity. The kinetic parameters of the cellobiose hydrolysis performed with the biocatalyst were determined and compared with those of the free enzyme. It was found that the apparent KMvalue of the biocatalyst was slightly lower than that of the free enzyme, indicating that the enzyme–substrate affinity was increased. A complete hydrolysis of cellobiose was observed for four consecutive runs, showing a high operational stability of the biocatalyst.

Severe aortic stenosis (AS) and mitral regurgitation (MR) frequently coexist. Although some observational studies have reported that moderate or severe MR is associated with higher mortality, the optimal management of such patients is still unclear. Simultaneous replacement of both aortic and mitral valves is linked to significantly higher morbidity and mortality. Recent advances in minimally invasive surgical or transcatheter therapies for MR allow for staged procedures in which surgical or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (SAVR/TAVR) is done first and MR severity re-evaluated afterwards. Current evidence suggests MR severity improves in some patients after SAVR or TAVR, depending on several factors (MR aetiology, type of valve used for TAVR, presence/absence of atrial fibrillation, residual aortic regurgitation, etc). However, as of today, the absence of randomised clinical trials does not allow for evidence-based recommendations about whether or not MR should be addressed at the time of SAVR or TAVR. A careful patient evaluation and clinical judgement are recommended to distinguish patients who might benefit from a double valve intervention from those in which MR should be left alone. The aim of this review is to report and critique the available data on this subject in order to help guide the clinical decision making in this challenging subset of patients.

In the last few years there has been a growing interest in the use of bio-based and biodegradable plastics, made of renewable resources. A common biodegradable polymer, microbial-derived, is Poly-3-hydroxybutiric acid (PHB). However, PHB homopolymer exhibits a high crystalline structure, which leads to mechanical properties that are not fully compatible with a number of production processes. An interesting approach is blending PHB with other compounds in order to improve its physical properties and reducing the production costs of the finished products. The olive mill wastewater (OMW) is an organic-rich residual that arises from the production and refinery of olive oil, mainly composed by aromatic and aliphatic compounds, proteins, sugars and lipids. In addition, some of these compounds exhibit a higher biotoxicity, which makes OMW not suitable for those applications in which biodegradability is required. Nevertheless, OMW is an inexpensive and abundant source of fine chemicals such as polyphenols, leading, after their extraction, to OMW matrix residuals (OMWR) rich in lignin-cellulose. In this work, OMWR was used as a natural filler for the production of PHB based films. PHB/OMWR composite samples were characterized by chemical, thermal, morphological and mechanical analyses. Furthermore, the degradation profiles, in different environments, were evaluated with the aim to develop materials suitable for agriculture and food packaging applications.

In this work, the simultaneous production of CH4and H2from photocatalytic reforming of glucose aqueous solution on Pd-TiO2catalysts under UV light irradiation by Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) was investigated. The Pd-TiO2catalysts were prepared by the photodeposition method. The Pd content was in the range 0.5-2 wt% and a photodeposition time in the range 15-120 min was used. Pd-TiO2powders were extensively characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), SBET, X-Ray Fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), UV-Vis Diffuse Reflectance Spectra (UV-Vis DRS), TEM and X-Ray Photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was found that the lower Pd loading (0.5 wt%) and 120 min of photodeposition time allowed us to obtain homogeneously distributed metal nanoparticles of small size; it was also observed that the increase in the metal loading and deposition time led to increasing the Pd0species effectively deposited on the sulfated TiO2surface. Particle size and the oxidation state of the palladium were the main factors influencing the photocatalytic activity and selectivity. The presence of palladium on the sulfated titania surface enhanced the H2and CH4production. In fact, on the catalyst with 0.5 wt% Pd loading and 120 min of photodeposition time, H2production of about 26 μmol was obtained after 3 h of irradiation time, higher than that obtained with titania without Pd (about 8.5 μmol). The same result was obtained for the methane production. The initial pH of the solution strongly affected the selectivity of the system. In more acidic conditions, the production of H2was enhanced, while the CH4formation was higher under alkaline conditions.

Two different approaches are proposed in this study to enhance the bioactivity of hydroxyapatite-based scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration. The first method consists in a structural modification of Hydroxyapatite (HA) through doping it with Magnesium (1,3% wt) while the second one in using HA in combination with a calcium silicate, i.e. Wollastonite (WS), to form a composite bioceramic. Scaffolds with high and strongly interconnected porosity (pores ranging from 300 to 800 µm) were produced throughout both procedures. Higher mechanical properties in compression were obtained when the composite Ws/HA bioceramic was adopted. That one showed a weight loss after 6 months in physiological solution seven times higher than doped HA. Preliminary in vitro tests highlighted that both kinds of scaffold allowed the adhesion of MG63, without significant differences in terms of vitality, indicating a good biocompatibility of both used biomaterials.

The best treatment option for patients with type 2 diabetes in whom treatment with metformin alone fails to achieve adequate glycaemic control is debated. We aimed to compare the long-term effects of pioglitazone versus sulfonylureas, given in addition to metformin, on cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Skeletal defects reconstruction, using custom-made substitutes, represents a valid solution to replacing lost and damaged anatomical bone structures, renew their original function, and at the same time, restore the original aesthetic aspect. Rapid prototyping (RP) techniques allow the construction of complex physical models based on 3D clinical images. However, RP machines usually work with synthetic polymers; therefore, producing custom-made scaffolds using a biocompatible material directly by RP is an exciting challenge. The aim of the present work is to investigate the potentiality of 3D printing as a manufacturing method to produce an osteogenic hydroxyapatite-polylactic acid bone graft substitute.

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a genetic disorder characterized by a defect in DNA interstrand crosslink (ICL) repair, chromosomal instability, and a predisposition to cancer. Recently, two RAD51 mutations were reported to cause an FA-like phenotype. Despite the tight association of FA/HR proteins with replication fork (RF) stabilization during normal replication, it remains unknown how FA-associated RAD51 mutations affect replication beyond ICL lesions. Here, we report that these mutations fail to protect nascent DNA from MRE11-mediated degradation during RF stalling in Xenopus laevisegg extracts. Reconstitution of DNA protection in vitro revealed that the defect arises directly due to altered RAD51 properties. Both mutations induce pronounced structural changes and RAD51 filament destabilization that is not rescued by prevention of ATP hydrolysis due to aberrant ATP binding. Our results further interconnect the FA pathway with DNA replication and provide mechanistic insight into the role of RAD51 in recombination-independent mechanisms of genome maintenance.

In this work, we use a set of recent multiyear simulations to develop a simplified sea surface height index (SSH). The index characterizes the dynamics of Ionian upper layer circulation and its links with sea surface height and salinity in the Southern Adriatic and Aegean Seas during the period 1987–2008. The analysis highlights a covariant behavior between Ionian Sea and Aegean Sea associated with a mutual zonal exchange of water masses with different salinity characteristics. Our analysis confirms that the variability observed in the period 1987–2008 in the upper layer circulation of the Ionian was driven by the salinity variability in the Southern Adriatic and Aegean Sea. This study supports and reinforces the hypothesis that two observed BiOS‐like reversals reflect the existence of multiple equilibrium states in the Mediterranean Thermohaline circulation in the Eastern Mediterranean and that a complete characterization of observed variability needs to take into account a fully coupled Adriatic‐Ionian‐Aegean System. The reversals in the Ionian Sea reflect the existence of multiple states in the Thermohaline circulation in the Eastern MediterraneanAegean and Ionian Seas explicitly show a covariant behavior in the period 1987–2008The source of this covariant behavior relies on substantial zonal exchanges of salinity between the two basins

IMPORTANCE: The outcomes of patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) are still controversial. OBJECTIVE: To clarify the role of SMR in the outcomes of patients with ischemic or idiopathic cardiomyopathies. DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, ISI Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for studies published up to March 2017. STUDY SELECTION: Studies reporting data on outcomes in patients with SMR were included. Duplicate publication data, studies lacking data on SMR grade and its correlation with outcomes, mixed data on SMR and primary mitral regurgitation, studies not clearly reporting the outcome of interest, and studies with fewer than 100 patients were excluded. Of the initial 3820 articles identified, 1.4% were finally included. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: The study met PRISMA requirements. Two of us independently screened articles for fulfillment of inclusion criteria. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcome, set after data collection, was the incidence of all-cause mortality in patients with and without SMR. Secondary outcomes included hospitalization for heart failure (HF), cardiac mortality, and a composite end point of death, HF hospitalization, and cardiac transplant. RESULTS: Fifty-three studies and 45 900 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The mean (SD) length of follow-up was 40.8 (22.2) months. In 26 of 36 studies reporting LV function by SMR grade, increasing SMR severity was associated with worse LV function. When SMR was categorized as present or absent, all-cause mortality was significantly higher in the patients with SMR (17 studies, 26 359 patients; risk ratio [RR],1.79; 95% CI, 1.47-2.18; P &lt; .001, I2 = 85%); when SMR was qualitatively graded, the incidence of all-cause mortality was significantly increased in patients having any degree of SMR compared with patients not having SMR (21 studies, 21 081 patients; RR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.67-2.31; P &lt; .001, I2 = 74%). Finally, when SMR was quantitatively graded, it remained associated with an increased all-cause mortality rate (9 studies, 3649 patients; RR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.71-2.27; P &lt; .001, I2 = 0%). Moreover, SMR was associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for HF (16 studies, 10 171 patients; RR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.92-2.67; P &lt; .001, I2 = 41%), cardiac mortality (12 studies, 11 896 patients; RR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.87-3.69; P &lt; .001, I2 = 74%), and death, HF, and transplant (11 studies, 8256 patients; RR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.33-1.99; P &lt; .001, I2 = 78%). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: To our knowledge, this study is the first meta-analysis to date to demonstrate that SMR, even when mild, correlates with adverse outcomes in patients with ischemic or idiopathic cardiomyopathies. Because SMR is an intrinsic consequence of LV dysfunction, causality between SMR and mortality should not be implied.

Many synthetic food dyes and their by-products, such as aromatic amines and phenolic compounds, occurring in industrial wastewater, are toxic to aquatic environment and, because of their carcinogenic and mutagenic nature, they result in a risk for the environment and human health when wastewater is reused or released into environment. Therefore, an effective wastewater treatment is required before effluent possible reuse or disposal. In the last years, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have been successfully investigated in the removal of a wide range of organic and inorganic contaminants from water and wastewater because of their capacity to promote the formation of highly reactive radicals (especially hydroxyl radicals). However, most of the studies available in scientific literature have been focused on the application of AOPs in the degradation of organic dyes from textile industries rather than food dyes. Therefore, while the literature about dye treatment by AOPs in textile wastewater is consolidated, less information is available for food dyes. Accordingly, this manuscript summarizes the main results related to the removal of food dyes by AOPs. In particular, conventional methods (biological and adsorption processes) are shortly introduced before to focus this mini-review on consolidated (namely, ozonation and homogeneous Fenton/photo-Fenton) and new (namely heterogeneous photocatalytic processes) AOPs.

AbstractCarbon monoxide acute intoxication is a common cause of accidental poisoning in industrialized countries and sometimes it produces a real mass casualty incident. The incident described here occurred in a church in the province of Verona, when a group of people was exposed to carbon monoxide due to a heating system malfunction. Fifty-seven people went to the Emergency Department. The mean carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) level was 10.1±5.7% (range: 3-25%). The clinicians, after medical examination, decided to move 37 patients to hyperbaric chambers for hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy. This is the first case report that highlights and analyses the logistic difficulties of managing a mass carbon monoxide poisoning in different health care settings, with a high influx of patients in an Emergency Department and a complex liaison between emergency services. This article shows how it is possible to manage a complex situation with good outcome. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:251–255)

In the present study, we investigated the effect of cerium and erbium doping of the zirconium dioxide matrix. We synthesized doped samples using hydrothermal process. The amounts of dopant used were 0.5%, 1% and 5% molar (rare earth oxide over zirconium dioxide) respectively. The samples have been studied via X-ray Diffraction measurements for the structural characterization. UV visible diffuse reflectance was used for the optical analysis, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) model for the measurement of the surface area. Finally the samples have been analysed via electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) for the electronic characterization. Then we tested the new synthetized materials to determine their photocatalytic activity in the reaction of degradation of methylene blue performed under irradiation by diodes (LEDs) emitting exclusively visible light.

N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) exhibits protective properties in brain injury models and has undergone a number of clinical trials. Most studies of NAC have focused on neurons. However, neuroprotection may be complemented by the protection of astrocytes because healthier astrocytes can better support the viability of neurons. Here, we show that NAC can protect astrocytes against protein misfolding stress (proteotoxicity), the hallmark of neurodegenerative disorders. Although NAC is thought to be a glutathione precursor, NAC protected primary astrocytes from the toxicity of the proteasome inhibitor MG132 without eliciting any increase in glutathione. Furthermore, glutathione depletion failed to attenuate the protective effects of NAC. MG132 elicited a robust increase in the folding chaperone heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), and NAC mitigated this effect. Nevertheless, three independent inhibitors of Hsp70 function ablated the protective effects of NAC, suggesting that NAC may help preserve Hsp70 chaperone activity and improve protein quality control without need for Hsp70 induction. Consistent with this view, NAC abolished an increase in ubiquitinated proteins in MG132-treated astrocytes. However, NAC did not affect the loss of proteasome activity in response to MG132, demonstrating that it boosted protein homeostasis and cell viability without directly interfering with the efficacy of this proteasome inhibitor. The thiol-containing molecules l-cysteine and d-cysteine both mimicked the protective effects of NAC, whereas the thiol-lacking molecule N-acetyl-S-methyl-l-cysteine failed to exert protection or blunt the rise in ubiquitinated proteins. Collectively, these findings suggest that the thiol group in NAC is required for its effects on glial viability and protein quality control.

During the extended activity of Mount Etna volcano in February–April 2021, three distinct paroxysmal events took place from February 21 to 26, which were associated with a very uncommon transport of the injected upper‐tropospheric plumes toward the north. Using a synergy of observations and modeling, we characterized the emissions and three‐dimensional dispersion for these three plumes, monitored their downwind distribution and optical properties, and estimated their radiative impacts at selected locations. With a satellite‐based source inversion, we estimate the emitted sulfur dioxide (SO2) mass at an integrated value of 55 kt and plumes injections at up to 12 km altitudes, which qualifies this series as an extreme event for Mount Etna. Then, we combine Lagrangian dispersion modeling, initialized with measured temporally resolved SO2emission fluxes and altitudes, with satellite observations to track the dispersion of the three individual plumes. The transport toward the north allowed the height‐resolved downwind monitoring of the plumes at selected observatories in France, Italy, and Israel, using LiDARs and photometric aerosol observations. Volcanic‐specific aerosol optical depths (AODs) in the visible spectral range ranging from about 0.004 to 0.03 and local daily average shortwave radiative forcing (RF) ranging from about −0.2 to −1.2 W m−2(at the top of atmosphere) and from about −0.2 to −3.0 W m−2(at the surface) are found. The composition (possible presence of ash), AOD, and RF of the plume have a large inter‐plume and intra‐plume variability and thus depend strongly on the position of the sampled section of the plumes. The volcanic plumes from Mount Etna's eruptions disperse usually toward the east, to the Central‐Eastern Mediterranean, where ground stations are not available to monitor and characterize them. During the extended intense volcanic activity of Mount Etna in February–April 2021, some of the plumes dispersed toward the north, in an area where many and well‐equipped ground observatories are available. This was a unique opportunity to study the emissions, dispersion dynamics, shape/composition, and impacts of Mount Etna's aerosol plumes. We analyzed these rare events using many information layers: satellite observations, numerical simulation of the plume's dispersion, and downwind ground‐based observatories. By coupling these information pieces, we could reconstruct these events and untangle their impacts from those of a major Saharan dust outbreak that occurred simultaneously. These events were found quite extreme for Mount Etna (extreme emissions and high altitude—around 12 km). We found that this type of extreme Etna's eruptions has a relevant (and not yet studied) impact on the atmospheric composition and regional climate in the Mediterranean area. The plumes, after continental dispersion, exhibit a complex filamentary shape and a complex aerosol composition and properties, due to the presence of both sulfur‐containing particles and ash. Three distinct paroxysmal events took place at Mount Etna from February 21 to 26, 2021 and the plumes were transported toward the northPlumes dispersion is characterized with Lagrangian modeling initialized with measured SO2emissions and with satellite observationsA series of LiDARs detected and characterized the plumes downwind and their observations are used to estimate the plumes radiative forcing Three distinct paroxysmal events took place at Mount Etna from February 21 to 26, 2021 and the plumes were transported toward the north Plumes dispersion is characterized with Lagrangian modeling initialized with measured SO2emissions and with satellite observations A series of LiDARs detected and characterized the plumes downwind and their observations are used to estimate the plumes radiative forcing