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Defects are inherent in transition metal dichalcogenides and significantly affect their chemical and physical properties. In this study, surface defect electrochemical nanopatterning is proposed as a promising method to tune in a controlled manner the electronic and functional properties of defective MoS₂ thin films. Using parallel electrochemical nanolithography, MoS₂ thin films are patterned, creating sulphur vacancy‐rich active zones alternated with defect‐free regions over a centimetre scale area, with sub‐micrometre spatial resolution. The patterned films display tailored optical and electronic properties due to the formation of sulphur vacancy‐rich areas. Moreover, the effectiveness of defect nanopatterning in tuning functional properties is demonstrated by studying the electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents some ambitious perspectives on how Systems Chemistry can contribute to developing the quite new research line of Chemical Artificial Intelligence (CAI). CAI refers to the efforts of devising liquid chemical systems mimicking some performances of biological and human intelligence, which ultimately emerge from wetware. The CAI systems implemented so far assist humans in making decisions. However, such CAI systems lack autonomy and cannot substitute humans. The development of autonomous chemical systems will allow the colonization of the molecular world with remarkable repercussions on human well‐being. As a beneficial side effect, this research line will help establish a deeper comprehension of the mesmerizing phenomenon of the origin of life on Earth and how cognitive capabilities emerge at a basic physico‐chemical level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Adaptive immunity is gaining a significant role in progression of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). B‐cell activity can be assessed by serum‐free light chains (sFLCs) k and λ levels. The objective of the present investigation is to examine the utility of sFLCs as non‐invasive biomarkers for the stratification of MASLD. Methods: We enrolled a consecutive cohort from an outpatient liver unit. Diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH) was made with liver biopsy according to current guidelines. Compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) and clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) were defined according to Baveno VII criteria. sFLCs were measured by turbidimetry using an immunoassay. Results: We evaluated 254 patients, 162/254 (63.8%) were male. Median age was 54 years old, and the median body mass index was 28.4 kg/m2. A total of 157/254 (61.8%) subjects underwent liver biopsy: 88 had histological diagnosis of MASH, 89 were considered as simple metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver (MASL) and 77/254 (30.3%) patients with compensated metabolic dysfunction‐associated cirrhosis. By using Baveno VII criteria, 101/254 (39.7%) patients had cACLD; among them, 45/101 (44.5%) had CSPH. Patients with cACLD showed higher sFLC levels compared with patients without cACLD (p <.01), and patients with CSPH showed higher sFLC levels than patients without CSPH (p <.01). At multivariable analysis, sFLCs were associated with cACLD (p <.05) independently from γ‐globulins and other known dysmetabolic risk factors. κFLC was associated with CSPH (p <.05) independently from γ‐globulins and other known dysmetabolic risk factors. Conclusion: sFLCs could be a simple biomarker for stratification of cACLD in MASLD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patterning offers an efficient way to quantitatively enhance and enlarge material properties and functionalities, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation in various scientific domains. By precisely controlling the spatial arrangement of materials at the micro‐ and nanoscale, patterning enables the exploitation of inherent material properties in novel ways. In addition, it generates new properties, leading to the development of advanced devices and applications. This article highlights the significant contributions of spatially controlled patterning in chemistry, particularly in generating new functional properties and devices, discussing some representative articles. Examples include the use of unconventional patterning techniques for surface functionalization, as well as the application of spatial confinement in improving material properties and controlling crystallization processes. Furthermore, the discussion extends to creating new devices, such as optical storage media and sensors, through spatial organization of materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DESs were profitably investigated as solvents and promoters of the conjugate reaction addition of cyclic and acyclic α‐nitroketones to a variety of electron‐poor alkenes. The best results were obtained conducing the reaction in betaine:1,2‐propanediol (1 : 5 molar ratio) DES at room temperature, and enones were demonstrated to be the most effective Michael acceptors. The same reaction conducted by using different molar ratios of the components in this DES showed the eutectic point to be the most effective in terms of the yields observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterising synthetic dyes on heritage textiles represents a relatively recent research frontier, which aims to obtain new information about the evolution of textile manufacturing and industrial chemistry. Whilst spectral enhancement or amplification methods are often considered a requirement for the Raman analysis of textile dyes, this work highlights the potential of standard Raman spectroscopy for the non-invasive analysis of synthetically dyed fibres. In this research, Raman spectroscopy was used for the chemical characterisation of early 20th century synthetic dyes, in both powder form and on dyed fibres. The dyes were produced by the Italian company Azienda Coloranti Nazionali e Affini (ACNA) and housed in the Sapienza University Museum of Chemistry. The investigation first employed literature research into the ACNA's commercial nomenclature. This information was used to hypothesise likely molecular structures of the dyes, pointing towards the azo dye class. The application of Raman spectroscopy confirmed these hypotheses and the high-quality spectra collected provided structural information about the dye molecules. Spectral features of azo-groups, aromatic moieties, and substituents were observable in spectra. Comparison with a Raman spectrum of wool allowed confident dye signal attribution, and some spectra displayed features linked to changes in the fibre during the dyeing process. Combining literature research and Raman vibrational information proved a powerful non-invasive approach for the characterisation of synthetic dyes, allowing molecular identification of some colorants and structural information for most. Standard Raman spectroscopy may provide a widely applicable, non-invasive method for acquiring information about synthetically dyed historical and artistic textiles in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) activity has been associated with automaticity and flow in motor execution. Studies have revealed that neurofeedback training (NFT) of the SMR can improve sports performance; however, few studies have adequately explored the effects of a single session of such NFT or examined the possible mechanisms underlying these effects on sports performance. This study recruited 44 professional golfers to address these gaps in the literature. A crossover design was employed to determine the order of the participation in the NFT and no‐training control conditions. The participants were asked to perform 60 10‐foot putts while electroencephalograms (EEGs) were recorded before and after the tasks. In pre‐and post‐tests, visual analog scales were used to assess the psychological states associated with SMR activities including the levels of attention engagement, conscious motor control, and physical relaxation. The results revealed that a single NFT session effectively increased SMR power and improved putting performance compared with the control condition. The subjective assessments also revealed that the participants reported lower attention engagement, less conscious control of the motor details and were more relaxed in the putting task, suggesting that SMR NFT promoted effortless and quiescent mental states during motor preparation for a putting task. This study aligns with theoretical hypotheses and extends current knowledge by revealing that a single session of SMR NFT can effectively enhance SMR power and improve putting performance in professional golfers. It also provides preliminary evidence of the possible underlying mechanisms that drive the effect of SMR NFT on putting performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the role of language in determining the substitutability between foreign and native workers. Our identification strategy exploits the linguistic diversity of Switzerland, a country with three main official languages (German, French and Italian) shared by bordering countries. This makes the Swiss labour market very peculiar, since both immigrants and natives may (or may not) share the language spoken in the area of residence. We modify the standard nested‐cell labour demand model to account for the linguistic background of native and immigrant workers. We provide evidence about the central role of language in determining the extent of the imperfect substitutability between native and foreign workers, and their differential specialization in communication‐intensive jobs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matrix solid‐phase dispersion is an alternate technique to simultaneously extract and clean up pesticides from food matrices. In recent years, deep eutectic solvents have been applied to replace common organic solvents in various extraction techniques. One of the drawbacks of deep eutectic solvents is the impracticality of their evaporation, leading to higher limits of quantification. In this work, a deep eutectic solvent‐based extraction followed by liquid‐liquid back‐extraction was carried out to extract five triazole fungicides from tomato samples followed by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry analysis. For this purpose, choline chloride‐ethylene glycol in a molar ratio of 1:2 and ethyl acetate was used as a deep eutectic‐organic solvent system. Alumina was used as a dispersant sorbent in a 1‐to‐5 w/w sample‐to‐dispersant ratio. Volumes of 4.5 ml of deep eutectic solvents and 2 ml ethyl acetate were the best choices for back‐extraction. The method was fully validated. The limit of quantification was in the range of 5–11 ng/g. Intra‐day and inter‐day precision ranged between 3% and 14%, respectively. Extraction recoveries varied from 61% to 116%. The matrix effect was also evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Actually, the use of chemical peels in cosmetics and dermatology continues to grow due to their versatility, clinical endpoint–directed predictability, and favorable risk profile in comparison to lasers. The chemical peel is a generally safe method for treatment of some skin disorders and to refresh and rejuvenate the skin. The major challenge of chemical peels is the tolerability, that is because of sensitive skin which is one of the most common skin disorders. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the new Miamo Renewal Peel Serum formulated with a pool of new generation acids (ELPA25™) on sensitive skin with respect to mandelic acid serum only and with respect to placebo comparison. Materials and Methods: The "in vivo" study following the half‐face experimental protocol active versus placebo involved 30 healthy Caucasian female volunteers between 25 and 64 years, with sensitive skin, who were divided into two different groups. ELPA25™ serum was applied in one group three times a week for 8 weeks. The other group, with the same protocol, applied an active serum containing mandelic acid, as control, versus placebo. In particular, skin moisturizing, skin viscoelastic properties, skin surface smoothness, wrinkle reduction, and stratum corneum renewal were evaluated. Results: Renewal Peel Serum was very well tolerated from sensitive skin. A significant decrease in skin roughness and wrinkle breadth, and an improvement in firmness and in skin elasticity, was observed after 2 months of treatment with respect both to mandelic acid serum and to placebo comparison. Conclusions: Scientific protocol using self‐controlled study methodology and noninvasive skin bioengineering techniques with adequate statistical methods were able to evaluate both the safety and the efficacy of the new Miamo Renewal Peel Serum. This study highlighted that the Miamo Renewal Peel Serum formulated with a patent‐pending mixture of new generation acids (ELPA25™) exerts many beneficial effects and it can be successfully employed for sensitive skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frataxin is a kinetic activator of the mitochondrial supercomplex for iron‐sulfur cluster assembly. Low frataxin expression or a decrease in its functionality results in Friedreich's Ataxia (FRDA). With the aim of creating new molecular tools to study this metabolic pathway, and ultimately, to explore new therapeutic strategies, we have investigated the possibility of obtaining small proteins exhibiting a high affinity for frataxin. In this study, we applied the ribosome display approach, using human frataxin as the target. We focused on Affi_224, one of the proteins that we were able to select after five rounds of selection. We have studied the interaction between both proteins and discussed some applications of this specific molecular tutor, concerning the modulation of the supercomplex activity. Affi_224 and frataxin showed a KD value in the nanomolar range, as judged by surface plasmon resonance analysis. Most likely, it binds to the frataxin acidic ridge, as suggested by the analysis of chemical shift perturbations (nuclear magnetic resonance) and computational simulations. Affi_224 was able to increase Cys NFS1 desulfurase activation exerted by the FRDA frataxin variant G130V. Importantly, Affi_224 interacts with frataxin in a human cellular model. Our results suggest quaternary addition may be a new tool to modulate frataxin function in vivo. Nevertheless, more functional experiments under physiological conditions should be carried out to evaluate Affi_224 effectiveness in FRDA cell models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transformation optics is a powerful tool allowing remapping a generic domain into another yet maintaining a correspondence of the solution of Maxwell's equations within the two domains. Transformation optics has been used in the past to conveniently solve for modes in a generic waveguide by transforming its cross‐section into a circular one. Such a transformation needs particular care in enforcing boundary conditions in the transformed, circular, domain. In this paper, a theoretical treatment of boundary conditions is presented, allowing for an accurate computation of all field components in a generic waveguide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive alien plants may profoundly transform ecosystems over wide areas. The study aimed to assess how the invader Reynoutria bohemica could transform ecosystem components of a native riparian forest in Northern Italy, after about 20 years of invasion. We selected 20 forest sites where we set up two 1 × 1 m plots, one in an invaded and one in a non‐invaded patch. Subsequently, we surveyed the properties of litter and mineral soil, soil biological quality (QBS‐ar), diversity of plant and microarthropod communities and light intensity at the ground level. To determine if the invader affected the quality of herb layer, we selected the native herb Allium ursinum as the indicator species of good quality forest stand and measured its traits in the paired plots. Following the application of linear mixed effects models, the invaded and non‐invaded plots showed differences in soil characteristics and plant community: the thickness of the organic horizon, soil C:N and available P were higher in invaded plots, whereas diversity, light intensity, Allium ursinum abundance and its vegetative vigour were found to be lower. Microarthropod communities and QBS‐ar were modestly influenced by R. bohemica. Redundancy analysis of plant community composition indicated that soil C:N and plant richness were the variables most linked to species invasion. This study highlights the ability of R. bohemica to transform certain ecosystem components in native riparian forests, after just a few decades since its first invasion, thereby underlining the need to implement measures to control its spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for Prostate Cancer (PCa) is associated with side effects that could lead to negative body image and low masculine self‐esteem of survivors. We compared a group of PCa survivors following ADT with ADT‐naïve patients, expecting the ADT group to show lower masculine self‐esteem. We also expected patients with hegemonic masculinity ideals to show poorer masculine self‐esteem and we hypothesized that ADT would moderate this relationship, expecting PCa patients on ADT with stronger hegemonic ideals to show the worst masculine self‐esteem scores among study participants. Methods: We compared 57 PCa survivors on ADT (Mage = 64.16 (7.11)) to 59 ADT‐naïve patients (Mage = 65.25 (5.50)), on the Masculine Self‐Esteem Scale (MSES), Body Image Scale (BIS), and Hegemonic Masculinity Ideals Scale (HMIS). Results: While the two groups did not significantly differ on masculine self‐esteem (F [1, 115] = 3.46, p = 0.065, ηp2 = 0.029) and body image (F [1, 115] = 3.46, p = 0.065, ηp2 = 0.029), younger age was significantly associated with higher body image issues (F [1, 115] = 8.63, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.071, β = −0.30). Hegemonic masculinity significantly predicted more masculine self‐esteem related issues (t (2, 114) = 2.31, β = 0.375, p < 0.05). ADT did not moderate this relationship. Conclusions: The results suggest that endorsing hegemonic masculinity could represent a risk factor for low masculine self‐esteem regardless of ADT status and that younger age is associated with negative body image among PCa survivors. Implications: These results suggest the importance of inclusion of topics related to hegemonic masculinity when providing support to PCa survivors, both when discussing treatment side effects, as well as in the later phases of survivorship. This pilot also suggests that younger PCa survivors might benefit from body‐image focused support regardless of treatment plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extraordinary occurrence of COVID‐19 by the fast expansion of viral infections has propelled particular interest in developing novel antiviral and virucidal agents to guarantee personal security. The main objective of this work is to propose novel formulations able to optimize the use of personal protection elements. In recent years, chitosan (CH) has attracted attention for being an interesting multifunctional, biodegradable, non‐antigenic, non‐toxic, and biocompatible natural polymer with antimicrobial properties. In this work, formulations based on a CH matrix containing silver, and Copper based nanoparticles have been developed. The novelty of this proposal is that almost liquid formulations have been reached, possessing verified properties to inhibit evolved virus such as herpes simplex type 1 (HSV‐1) and bovine betacoronavirus (BCoV), the latter belonging to the same family of the well‐known the well‐known SARS‐CoV‐2. Besides antibacterial bioactivity; as well as the ability of these formulations to be easily sprayed on various surfaces, including conventional face masks, have been verified and discussed. The results presented in this contribution provide strong evidence on CH films as an ideal biosafe surface‐protective for several daily used materials including the conventional face masks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the potential of patterning in chemistry and its applications in various fields. It highlights the use of a fluorescent self-assembled monolayer to create an optical 2D barcode that can encode digital information. This technology allows for optical data storage and real-time monitoring of parameters such as cell count and transfection efficiency. The article emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of patterning, combining chemistry, materials science, and biotechnology. For more information, readers can refer to the Concept Article by D. Gentili and M. Cavallini. [Extracted from the article]

The biocompatibility assessment of biomaterials or the dynamic response of implanted constructs entails inflammatory events primary reflected in cell behavior at the microcirculatory system. Current protocols are based on histopathology which are over 40 years old and require the sacrifice of a huge number of laboratory animal with an unsustainable ethical burden of animal research. Intravital microscopy techniques are actually used to study implantation outcomes in real time. However, no device providing a specific tracking geometry to reposition the field of view of the microscope, for repeated analyses, exists yet. The synthetic photoresist SZ2080 is characterized here, allowing the development and in vivo validation of a miniaturized imaging window, the Microatlas, that, fabricated via two‐photon polymerization, is implanted in living chicken embryos and imaged by fluorescence microscopy 3 and 4 days after the implant. The characterization of their elastomechanical and fluorescence properties highlights planar raster spacing as the most important parameter in tuning the mechanical and spectroscopic features of the structures. The quantification of cell infiltration inside the Microatlas demonstrates its potential as novel scaffold for tissue regeneration and as beacon for 3D repositioning of the microscope field of view and correction of optical aberrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural defects, such as heteroatoms or atomic vacancies, are always present in materials and significantly affect their physical properties, in both positive or unwanted ways. Interestingly, defects generate an impressive range of functionalities in many materials, such as catalysis, electrical and thermal conductivity tuning, thermoelectricity, enhanced ion storage, magnetism, and others. These properties enable the use of defective materials in a great variety of technological applications. Here we review the principal properties generated by atomic vacancies in 2D compounds and thin films of transition metal dichalcogenides and the most consolidated methods for their formation and engineering. Eventually, we critically analysed the most important advantages, the limits and the current open challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Though aberrant face processing is a hallmark of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), findings on accompanying brain activity are divergent. Therefore, we conducted an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta‐analysis of studies examining brain activity during face processing. Methods: We searched PubMed and PsycINFO using combinations of terms as 'fMRI', 'Autism Spectrum Disorder', 'Face Perception'. Eligible studies reported on DSM‐diagnosed ASD individuals, compared to controls (HC), using face stimuli presented in fMRI and reporting whole‐brain analysis coordinates. We compared two approaches: 'convergence of differences' (primary analysis) using study‐level coordinates from ASD vs. HC contrasts, and 'differences in convergence' (secondary) pooling coordinates within each group separately, and contrasting the resultant ALE maps. Results: Thirty‐five studies (655 ASD and 668 HC) were included. Primary analysis identified a cluster in amygdala/parahippocampus where HC showed greater convergence of activation. Secondary analysis yielded no significant results. Conclusions: Results suggest that ASD dysfunction in face processing relies on structures involved in emotional processing rather than perception. We also demonstrate that the two ALE methodologies lead to divergent results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late‐onset Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) refers to impaired growth and development of the fetus, characterized by placental morphological abnormalities that affect the fetus's supply of nutrients. Human leukocyte antigen‐G (HLA‐G) is physiologically expressed during pregnancy, but decreased in normal placenta during the last weeks of gestation possibly inducing childbirth. Several viruses involved in congenital infection, such as herpesviruses, exploit HLA‐G expression as an immune‐escape mechanism. To date, despite different congenital herpetic infections having been associated with late IUGR, no direct implication of Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6) infection has been reported. We evaluated HLA‐G expression and HHV‐6 infection in 11 placentas from late‐onset IUGR newborns and 11 placentas from uncomplicated pregnancies by histopathological and immunohistochemistry analysis. We found higher levels of HLA‐G expression and HHV‐6 presence in IUGR placenta samples compared with control placenta samples. We report HHV‐6 staining in IUGR placenta samples, characterized by high HLA‐G expression. These preliminary data suggest a possible involvement of HHV‐6 infection in HLA‐G deregulation that might affect vessel remodeling and prevent the correct pregnancy outcome in the IUGR condition. Highlights: This is a retrospective analysis describing the role of HLA‐G expression and HHV‐6 infection in late‐onset intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) placenta samples.For the first time it has been suggested a possible involvement of HHV‐6 infection in HLA?G deregulation that might affect vessel remodeling and prevent the correct pregnancy outcome in the IUGR condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harvesting microalgae from liquid culture is a difficult issue to solve and is most commonly done through settling. However, settling is a slow process on its own and generally needs to be induced chemically or by introducing stress to the culture. Polymeric, cationic substances, such as cationised starch and chitosan, are often used for flocculation and settling. These large, positively charged molecules form large clusters with suspended particles in the liquid medium. In the present study, three natural organic flocculants (cationic starch, chitosan and acacia tannin S5T) were tested to harvest microalgal cultures grown in wastewater. Two microalgal species, one strain of Chlorella vulgaris and one strain of Scenedesmus obliquus, were cultured in municipal wastewater for different lengths of time, and settled using either cationic starch, chitosan or acacia tannin S5T. Results indicated that S5T worked with approximately the same efficiency in the two assayed species, although it requires a relatively high dosage to function (about 300 mg L−1), while the other two flocculants varied from species to species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocrusts (topsoil communities formed by mosses, lichens, bacteria, fungi, algae, and cyanobacteria) are a key biotic component of dryland ecosystems. Whilst climate patterns control the distribution of biocrusts in drylands worldwide, terrain and soil attributes can influence biocrust distribution at landscape scale. Multi‐source unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery was used to map and study biocrust ecology in a typical dryland ecosystem in central Spain. Red, green and blue (RGB) imagery was processed using structure‐from‐motion techniques to map terrain attributes related to microclimate and terrain stability. Multispectral imagery was used to produce accurate maps (accuracy > 80%) of dryland ecosystem components (vegetation, bare soil and biocrust composition). Finally, thermal infrared (TIR) and multispectral imagery was used to calculate the apparent thermal inertia (ATI) of soil and to evaluate how ATI was related to soil moisture (r2 = 0.83). The relationship between soil properties and UAV‐derived variables was first evaluated at the field plot level. Then, the maps obtained were used to explore the relationship between biocrusts and terrain attributes at ecosystem level through a redundancy analysis. The most significant variables that explain biocrust distribution are: ATI (34.4% of variance, F = 130.75; p < 0.001), Elevation (25.8%, F = 97.6; p < 0.001), and potential solar incoming radiation (PSIR) (52.9%, F = 200.1; p < 0.001). Differences were found between areas dominated by lichens and mosses. Lichen‐dominated biocrusts were associated with areas with high slopes and low values of ATI, with soil characterized by a higher amount of soluble salts, and lower amount of organic carbon, total phosphorus (Ptot) and total nitrogen (Ntot). Biocrust‐forming mosses dominated lower and moister areas, characterized by gentler slopes and higher values of ATI with soils with higher contents of organic carbon, Ptot and Ntot. This study shows the potential to use UAVs to improve our understanding of drylands and to evaluate the control that the terrain has on biocrust distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Combined therapy with carfilzomib, bendamustine, and dexamethasone was evaluated in this multicenter phase 1/2 trial conducted within the European Myeloma Network (EMN09 trial). Methods: Sixty‐three patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma who had received ≥2 lines of prior therapy were included. The phase 1 portion of the study determined the maximum tolerated dose of carfilzomib with bendamustine set at 70 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8. After 8 cycles, responding patients received maintenance therapy with carfilzomib and dexamethasone until progression. Results: On the basis of the phase 1 results, the recommended phase 2 dose for carfilzomib was 27 mg/m2 twice weekly in weeks 1, 2, and 3. Fifty‐two percent of patients achieved a partial response or better, and 32% reached a very good partial response or better. The clinical benefit rate was 93%. After a median follow‐up of 21.9 months, the median progression‐free survival was 11.6 months, and the median overall survival was 30.4 months. The reported grade ≥3 hematologic adverse events (AEs) were lymphopenia (29%), neutropenia (25%), and thrombocytopenia (22%). The main nonhematologic grade ≥3 AEs were pneumonia, thromboembolic events (10%), cardiac AEs (8%), and hypertension (2%). Conclusions: In heavily pretreated patients who have relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, combined carfilzomib, bendamustine, and dexamethasone is an effective treatment option administered in the outpatient setting. Infection prophylaxis and attention to patients with cardiovascular predisposition are required. In patients with heavily pretreated relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, combined carfilzomib, bendamustine, and dexamethasone is an effective, well tolerated, and affordable treatment option safely administered in the outpatient setting. However, infection prophylaxis and attention to patients with cardiovascular predisposition are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Krebs von den Lungen‐6 (KL‐6) is a high‐molecular‐weight (200kDa) glycoprotein proposed as a diagnostic biomarker for differentiating interstitial lung disease (ILD). Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare immune‐mediated disorder, and ILD is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE) has been described to have a poor prognosis in SSc‐ILD patients. This study undertook to compare serial changes in KL‐6 in SSc‐ILD patients with and without PPFE, to verify its prognostic value as a disease biomarker. Materials and Methods: Twenty‐five SSc‐ILD patients (median IQR, 62 (56‐58); 20% males) were retrospectively enrolled. 12 SSc‐ILD patients (48%) had also a radiological diagnosis of PPFE. Serum KL‐6 concentrations were measured by KL‐6 reagent assay (Fujirebio Europe, Ghent, Belgium). Results: Serum KL‐6 measurements were increased in SSc‐ILD patients with and without PPFE compared with healthy controls (P <.0001). Comparative analysis of the rate of variation of KL‐6 over the 6 years of follow‐up was performed by serial two‐yearly KL‐6 measurements: Δ1(t1‐t0), Δ2(t2‐t1) and Δ3(t3‐t2). In SSc‐ILD patients with PPFE pattern, Δ3 was significantly different than those without PPFE pattern (P =.0020). Serum KL‐6 levels were significantly different (P =.0455) either at Δ2 and Δ3 in the PPFE group. In SSc‐ILD patients with PPFE, at t3 serum KL‐6 concentrations were inversely correlated with FEV1 (r = −.76; P =.037) and FVC percentages (r = −.79; P =.028). Conclusion: These results suggest that serial measurements of KL‐6 in the follow‐up of these patients may help to monitor disease progression. In real life, in SSc‐ILD patients PPFE should be always evaluated at CT and when present should suggest a tight follow‐up to monitor its evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces the conic section arc elements in 2D and 2.5D finite element method (FEM). Elements are obtained by deforming an edge in a standard triangular element through a coordinate transformation. This allows to completely eliminate the geometrical error in structures composed of circular, elliptical, hyperbolic and parabolic arcs. The element order is defined independently of the geometrical description of the boundary, allowing the use of simple meshers. Previously available FEM codes can be straightforwardly modified to introduce the conic section boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite significant advancement in environmental flow science, the release of minimum flows (MFs) still represents one of the main measures globally adopted to mitigate off‐stream diversion in regulated rivers. In the Lake Como basin (Italy), we monitored water‐depleted reaches below hydropower reservoirs and intakes and reaches unimpacted by water withdrawal. Our aim was to verify if the gradient in streamflow alterations resulted in detectable differences in the structure and functions of benthic assemblages, possibly identifying streamflow metrics explaining the observed differences. The macroinvertebrate assemblages sampled below reservoirs showed significant differences from those from unimpacted reaches, including the reduced relative richness of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (mainly stoneflies) and the higher abundance and richness of dipterans. These differences were well explained by the corresponding streamflow pattern, characterized by a rather constant flow throughout the year, occasionally interrupted by sharp peaks related to spilling episodes. In contrast, the shift from unimpacted conditions was minor for benthic assemblages collected at reaches below intakes, where the seasonal streamflow variation was partly preserved. Our results suggest that an increase of the e‐flow released by hydropower dams during the seasons characterized by larger run‐offs could support improved benthic assemblages. Dewatered river sections below reservoirs could thus be prioritized for updating the current MF management, in the study area as well as in comparable contexts. At least to our knowledge, specific investigations are so far unavailable regarding the exploration of the different responses of benthic macroinvertebrates to intakes and reservoirs operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies of Internet‐delivered acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for chronic pain have shown small to moderate positive effects for pain interference and pain acceptance. Effects on pain intensity, depression, anxiety and quality of life (QoL) have been less favourable, and improvements for values and sleep are lacking. In this randomized controlled trial iACT – a novel format of Internet‐ACT using daily microlearning exercises – was examined for efficacy compared to a waitlist condition. Methods: Adult participants (mean age 49.5 years, pain duration 18.1 years) with diverse chronic pain conditions were recruited via self‐referral, and randomized to iACT (n = 57) or waitlist (n = 56). The primary outcome was pain interference. The secondary outcomes were QoL, depression, anxiety, insomnia and pain intensity. The process variables included psychological inflexibility and values. Post‐assessments were completed by 88% (n = 100) of participants. Twelve‐month follow‐up assessments were completed by 65% (iACT only, n = 37). Treatment efficacy was analysed using linear mixed models and an intention‐to‐treat‐approach. Results: Significant improvements in favour of iACT were seen for pain interference, depression, anxiety, pain intensity and insomnia, as well as process variables psychological inflexibility and values. Between‐group effect sizes were large for pain interference (d = 0.99) and pain intensity (d = 1.2), moderate for anxiety and depressive symptoms and small for QoL and insomnia. For the process variables, the between‐group effect size was large for psychological inflexibility (d = 1.0) and moderate for values. All improvements were maintained at 1‐year follow‐up. Conclusions: Internet‐ACT as microlearning may improve a broad range of outcomes in chronic pain. Significance: The study evaluates a novel behavioral treatment with positive results on pain interference, mood as well as pain intensity for longtime chronic pain sufferers. The innovative format of a digital ACT intervention delivered in short and experiential daily learnings may be a promising way forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intubation with a flexible fibrobronchoscope in an awake patient is frequently considered the technique of choice in patients with predicted difficult intubation. There are, however, situations in which the use of the fibrobronchoscope is not applicable, particularly due to problems attributable to the patient or to limited use of the instrument. In such situations, the video laryngoscope can be a useful alternative, as long as it is associated with adequate sedation of the patient. In fact, it ensures excellent viewing of the glottis, allowing for successful orotracheal intubation to be performed even in case of difficult airways, while keeping the patient spontaneously breathing throughout the procedure. From the data present in the literature, this technique seems to ensure a success rate and a safety profile similar to those obtained with the fibrobronchoscope, moreover, with greater ease of use by the anaesthesiologist. The main purpose of this work is to provide a valid and safe alternative to intubation with a fibrobronchoscope while awake in those patients with anticipated difficult airway management and in whom, for different reasons, fibrobronchoscope cannot be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stratified oceanic systems are characterized by the presence of a so‐called Deep Chlorophyll a Maximum (DCM) not detectable by ocean color satellites. A DCM can either be a phytoplankton (carbon) biomass maximum (Deep Biomass Maximum, DBM), or the consequence of photoacclimation processes (Deep photoAcclimation Maximum, DAM) resulting in the increase of chlorophyll a per phytoplankton carbon. Even though these DCM (further qualified as either DBMs or DAMs) have long been studied, no global‐scale assessment has yet been undertaken and large knowledge gaps still remain in relation to the environmental drivers responsible for their formation and maintenance. In order to investigate their spatial and temporal variability in the open ocean, we use a global data set acquired by more than 500 Biogeochemical‐Argo floats given that DCMs can be detected from the comparative vertical distribution of chlorophyll a concentrations and particulate backscattering coefficients. Our findings show that the seasonal dynamics of the DCMs are clearly region‐dependent. High‐latitude environments are characterized by a low occurrence of intense DBMs, restricted to summer. Meanwhile, oligotrophic regions host permanent DAMs, occasionally replaced by DBMs in summer, while subequatorial waters are characterized by permanent DBMs benefiting from favorable conditions in terms of both light and nutrients. Overall, the appearance and depth of DCMs are primarily driven by light attenuation in the upper layer. Our present assessment of DCM occurrence and of environmental conditions prevailing in their development lay the basis for a better understanding and quantification of their role in carbon budgets (primary production and export). Key Points: The main characteristics and drivers of Deep Chlorophyll Maxima (DCM) are analyzed from a global BGC‐Argo databaseLatitude and season determine the occurrence and characteristics of DCMsDCMs result from photoacclimation or biomass accumulation, depending on the availability of light and nitrate [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the efficacy of personal protective equipment and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-based spray against coronavirus in dental setting. It mentions that efficiency of a hydrogen peroxide-based spray in reducing a coronavirus viral load, similar to that of asymptomatic patients, dispersed during a conventional dental procedure.

Forecasting geomagnetic indices represents a key point to develop warning systems for the mitigation of possible effects of severe geomagnetic storms on critical ground infrastructures. Here we focus on SYM-H index, a proxy of the axially symmetric magnetic field disturbance at low and middle latitudes on the Earth's surface. To forecast SYM-H, we built two artificial neural network (ANN) models and trained both of them on two different sets of input parameters including interplanetary magnetic field components and magnitude and differing for the presence or not of previous SYM-H values. These ANN models differ in architecture being based on two conceptually different neural networks: the long short-term memory (LSTM) and the convolutional neural network (CNN). Both networks are trained, validated, and tested on a total of 42 geomagnetic storms among the most intense that occurred between 1998 and 2018. Performance comparison of the two ANN models shows that (1) both are able to well forecast SYM-H index 1 h in advance, with an accuracy of more than 95% in terms of the coefficient of determination R²; (2) the model based on LSTM is slightly more accurate than that based on CNN when including SYM-H index at previous steps among the inputs; and (3) the model based on CNN has interesting potentialities being more accurate than that based on LSTM when not including SYM-H index among the inputs. Predictions made including SYM-H index among the inputs provide a root mean squared error on average 42% lower than that of predictions made without SYM-H. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In neuroimaging studies, small sample sizes and the resultant reduced statistical power to detect effects that are not large, combined with inadequate analytic choices, concur to produce inflated or false‐positive findings. To mitigate these issues, researchers often restrict analyses to specific brain areas, using the region of interest (ROI) approach. Crucially, ROI analysis assumes the a priori justified definition of the target region. Nonetheless, reports often lack details about where in the timeline, ranging from study conception to the data analysis and interpretation of findings, were ROIs selected. Frequently, the rationale for ROI selection is vague or inadequately founded on the existing literature. These shortcomings have important implications for ROI‐based studies, augmenting the risk that observed effects are inflated or even false positives. Tools like preregistration and registered reports could address this problem, ensuring the validity of ROI‐based studies. The benefits could be enhanced by additional practices such as selection of ROIs using quantitative methods (i.e., meta‐analysis) and the sharing of whole‐brain unthresholded maps of effect size, as well as of binary ROIs, in publicly accessible repositories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Click chemistry is used to functionalize simple lipophilic and water‐soluble molecules, a complex PEGylated phospholipid (DSPE‐PEG2000), and two benzylic substrates with the 2‐(hydroxyimino)aldehyde (HIA) group. To this end, two terminal alkynes bearing the HIA moiety were synthesized and coupled to different azides through copper(I)‐catalyzed azide alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). Norrish–Yang photoisomerization (λ= 365 nm, LED source) is successfully obtained, with no interference by the triazole linker, except when the forbidden n‐π* carbonyl transition is screened by a remote substituent such as salicylaldehyde. UV‐Vis spectrometry suggests a specific interaction of HIAs with Cu(II), whereas no such evidence is found with Cu(I). We thereby show that the CuAAC methodology can be used successfully to obtain HIA‐based UV‐responsive hydrophilic or lipophilic ligands, phospholipidic components for the construction of liposomes, and macrocycle precursors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopic endonasal approaches (EEAs) have been adopted as an alternative to standard transcranial approaches for olfactory groove meningiomas (OGMs). However, the relative cost‐effectiveness remains controversial. Methods: Cost‐utility analysis from a societal perspective comparing EEA vs transcranial approaches for OGM was used in this study. Surgical treatment was modeled using decision analysis, and a Markov model was adopted over a 20‐year horizon. Parameters were obtained from literature review. Costs were expressed in 2017 Canadian dollars. Results: In the base case, EEA was cost‐effective compared with transcranial surgery with an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of $33 523 ($30 475 USD)/QALY. There was a 55% likelihood that EEA was cost‐effective at a willingness‐to‐pay of $50 000/QALY. EEA remained cost‐effective at a cerebrospinal fluid leak rate below 60%, gross total resection rate above 25%, and base cost less than $66 174 ($60 158 USD). Conclusion: EEA may be a cost‐effective alternative to transcranial approaches for selected OGM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article applies a new method to analyze modes in empty waveguides having perfectly conducting walls and a rather generic cross‐section. The method is based on a coordinate transformation that maps the generic profile of the waveguide cross‐section to a circular waveguide (CW) filled with an anisotropic material. Modes in this latter waveguide can be represented as a series over the corresponding free‐space CW modes. This representation is particularly useful if used as a modal expansion over the port of a 2.5D or 3D device treated with a transformation optics approach. The method is particularly efficient when the waveguide is "similar" to a CW. Applications are shown to the analysis of some waveguides of arbitrary cross‐section with a view on practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To describe our response to the COVID‐19 emergency in a cancer centre to enable other nursing organizations to determine which elements could be useful to manage a surge of patients in their own setting. Background: The COVID‐19 pandemic represents one of the most challenging healthcare scenarios faced to date. Managing cancer care in such a complex situation requires a coordinated emergency action plan to guarantee the continuity of cancer treatments for patients by providing healthcare procedures for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals in a safe environment. Procedures: We describe the main strategies and role of nurses in implementating such procedures. Results: Nurses at our hospital were actively involved in COVID‐19 response defined by the emergency action plan that positively contributed to correct social distancing and to the prevention of the spread of the virus. Implications for nursing and health policies: Lessons learned from the response to phase I of COVID‐19 have several implications for future nursing and health policies in which nurses play an active role through their involvement in the frontline of such events. Key policies include a coordinated emergency action plan permitting duty of care within the context of a pandemic, and care pathway revision. This requires the rapid implementation of strategies and policies for a nursing response to the new care scenarios: personnel redistribution, nursing workflow revision, acquisition of new skills and knowledge, effective communication strategies, infection control policies, risk assessment and surveillance programmes, and continuous supplying of personal protective equipment. Finally, within a pandemic context, clear nursing policies reinforcing the role of nurses as patient and caregiver educators are needed to promote infection prevention behaviour in the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Network Medicine applies network science approaches to investigate disease pathogenesis. Many different analytical methods have been used to infer relevant molecular networks, including protein–protein interaction networks, correlation‐based networks, gene regulatory networks, and Bayesian networks. Network Medicine applies these integrated approaches to Omics Big Data (including genetics, epigenetics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics) using computational biology tools and, thereby, has the potential to provide improvements in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of complex diseases. We discuss briefly the types of molecular data that are used in molecular network analyses, survey the analytical methods for inferring molecular networks, and review efforts to validate and visualize molecular networks. Successful applications of molecular network analysis have been reported in pulmonary arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic lung diseases, and drug development. Important knowledge gaps in Network Medicine include incompleteness of the molecular interactome, challenges in identifying key genes within genetic association regions, and limited applications to human diseases. This article is categorized under:Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Mechanistic ModelsTranslational, Genomic, and Systems Medicine > Translational MedicineAnalytical and Computational Methods > Analytical MethodsAnalytical and Computational Methods > Computational Methods [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On August 2017, a massive rock slope failure triggered an extreme sedimentation event in a regulated Alpine river. Consequently, high sediment load affected the river for about 1 month, with sediment concentration peaking up to several hundred g/L, and overall sediment yield of 0.4–0.8 Mm3. The availability of sound pre‐event data concerning benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages gave us the opportunity to assess the impact of this unusually severe sediment disturbance through before/after comparison. Within 1 month from the event, all the monitored communities displayed low density, richness and diversity, with minimum values never recorded before, particularly at the most upstream investigated reach, and where riverbed aggradation was comparatively larger. Persisting riverbed alteration was also identified as a major determinant justifying the slow recovery observed during the year after the event. Overall, the high resilience of some taxa, suited to a baseline unnatural condition, allowed the fast recolonization of the investigated river reaches. However, the recovery of other taxa, more sensitive to sediment pressure, was slow or did not occur during the monitored year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tetrapyrazinoporphyrazine (TPysPz) ligands and metal complexes find, generally, application as electronic materials and catalysts. Considering the limited application of Titanium (Ti), we prepared and characterized a family of ligands and Ti‐based complexes of tetrakis‐2,3‐[5,6‐di‐R8‐pyrazino]porphyrazine (R = H, 2‐Py, Ph). UV/Vis measurements in different solvents confirm molecular aggregation, which results more pronounced in the presence of 2‐pyridil and phenyl substituents on the macrocycle edge. Because of low solubility, solid state NMR was applied for structure characterization. Additional IR and MALDI‐TOF were carried out to complete the characterization. Cyclic voltammetry in DMSO/Bu4NBF4 0.1 m unveiled that our Ti complexes can take part in up to five redox events. The first two quasi‐reversible reductions involve Ti(IV), whereas the further to or three occur at the expense of the TPysPz macrocycle. To test the applicability of our compounds as catalytic materials, we performed a preliminary cyclic voltammetry investigation in the solid‐state, which showed typical peaks of hydrogen redox reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An elementary dipole in presence of a perfectly conducting wedge radiates a field whose analytic expression can be written in terms of a double infinite series. A dipole located at a point characterized by complex coordinates behaves in the real space as a directive source akin to a Gaussian beam in the paraxial region. In this article, the series solution, originally conceived for a dipole located at a point characterized by real coordinates, is extended to the case of a complex coordinates source, hence providing an analytical solution approximating the problem of a wedge illuminated by a Gaussian beam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. Recent studies have suggested that vitamin K may exert significant effects on the central nervous system. The present study investigates the relationship between vitamin K plasmatic levels and cognitive functions in elderly patients on oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT). Design. At the Thrombosis Centre of Haematology, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 85 patients on OAT, aged between 75 and 92, were randomly enrolled in the study. Patients were on OAT with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Vitamin K1 concentrations were determined using standardized High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Cognitive functions were assessed using the Milan Overall Dementia Assessment (MODA). Results. MODA scores are positively correlated to vitamin K1 concentration. Patients with vitamin K1 below 0.100 μg/L and between 0.100 and 0.400 μg/L showed a mean MODA score of 79 ± 5 and 82 ± 3, respectively. Patients with vitamin K1 above 0.400 μg/L had a significantly greater MODA score (89 ± 1). After binning the data into bicentiles, MODA scores are shown to be linearly dependent on vitamin K1 concentrations (p < 0.001). Even long-term OAT (>10 years) does not affect MODA scores. Education seems to exert a greater role on the cognitive status in comparison with aging. Conclusions. The study shows a positive association between vitamin K1 concentration and cognitive status in elderly patients (≥75 years) on OAT. The relationship between vitamin K1 concentration and MODA scores is described by a linear model. Cognitive status is not influenced by the duration of OAT but by the years of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]