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The CompSafeNano project, a Research and Innovation Staff Exchange (RISE) project funded under the European Union's Horizon 2020 program, aims to advance the safety and innovation potential of nanomaterials (NMs) by integrating cutting-edge nanoinformatics, computational modelling, and predictive toxicology to enable design of safer NMs at the earliest stage of materials development. The project leverages Safe-by-Design (SbD) principles to ensure the development of inherently safer NMs, enhancing both regulatory compliance and international collaboration. By building on established nanoinformatics frameworks, such as those developed in the H2020-funded projects NanoSolveIT and NanoCommons, CompSafeNano addresses critical challenges in nanosafety through development and integration of innovative methodologies, including advanced in vitro models, in silico approaches including machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven predictive models and 1st-principles computational modelling of NMs properties, interactions and effects on living systems. Significant progress has been made in generating atomistic and quantum-mechanical descriptors for various NMs, evaluating their interactions with biological systems (from small molecules or metabolites, to proteins, cells, organisms, animals, humans and ecosystems), and in developing predictive models for NMs risk assessment. The CompSafeNano project has also focused on implementing and further standardising data reporting templates and enhancing data management practices, ensuring adherence to the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles. Despite challenges, such as limited regulatory acceptance of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) currently, which has implications for predictive nanosafety assessment, CompSafeNano has successfully developed tools and models that are integral to the safety evaluation of NMs, and that enable the extensive datasets on NMs safety to be utilised for the re-design of NMs that are inherently safer, including through prediction of the acquired biomolecule coronas which provide the biological or environmental identities to NMs, promoting their sustainable use in diverse applications. Future efforts will concentrate on further refining these models, expanding the NanoPharos Database, and working with regulatory stakeholders thereby fostering the widespread adoption of SbD practices across the nanotechnology sector. CompSafeNano's integrative approach, multidisciplinary collaboration and extensive stakeholder engagement, position the project as a critical driver of innovation in NMs SbD methodologies and in the development and implementation of computational nanosafety.

Macrophage plasticity allows the adoption of distinct functional states in response to environmental cues. While unique transcriptomic profiles define these states, focusing solely on transcription neglects potential long-term effects. The investigation of epigenetic changes can be used to understand how temporary stimuli can result in lasting effects. Epigenetic alterations play an important role in the pathophysiology of macrophages, including their trained innate immunity, enabling faster and more efficient inflammatory responses upon subsequent encounters to the same pathogen or insult. In this study, we used a multi-omics approach to elucidate the interplay between gene expression and DNA-methylation, to explore the potential long-term effects of diverse polarizing environments on macrophage activity. We identified a common core set of genes that are differentially methylated regardless of exposure type, indicating a potential common fundamental mechanism for adaptation to various stimuli. Functional analysis revealed that processes requiring rapid responses displayed transcriptomic regulation, whereas functions critical for long-term adaptations exhibited co-regulation at both transcriptomic and epigenetic levels. Our study uncovers a novel set of genes linked to the long-term effects of macrophage polarization. This discovery underscores the potential of epigenetics in elucidating how macrophages establish long-term memory and influence health outcomes.

The article addresses real estate appraisals in Italy involving lands already subject to Local Government uses then legitimized or soils burdened by Emphyteusis (Land Lease). Local Government uses are collective property rights on rural land. Considering these conditions, it is possible for the land to be legitimized by the occupant, who thus obtains the right to alienate the land with the burden of the rent. Emphyteusis (Land Lease), on the other hand, is a right of enjoyment on another’s land with the obligation to improve it and pay a periodic rent. These two types of agrarian relationships may appear similar but confusing them can lead to inequalities when updating the rent or quantifying the capital of enfranchisement. Therefore, a historical-legal investigation becomes essential to reconstruct the existence of the right and its particular genesis, in order to identify the true owner of the land between the grantor and the grantee. The work also provides operational suggestions, in the two cases examined, for estimating the rent and capital of enfranchisement that are in line with the prescriptions imposed by case law and represent a fair balance between the various interests of the parties involved.

Abstract The incidence of eating disorders in children, mainly of anorexia nervosa, is dramatically increased in the last years. A timely identification of the disease is associated with higher rates of recovery. Aim of the work is to underline signs and symptoms that can be used to an early detection of anorexia nervosa in the pediatric age. A scoping review has been conducted by The Italian Pediatric Society Adolescent Study Group according to the PRISMA Extension guidelines for Scoping Reviews, using the search term “anorexia nervosa” and the following filters “review”, “systematic review”, “age 0–18”, “last 4 years”. The strategy search produced 657 studies, of which 52 were included in this revision. Screening and red flags were discussed in 23 reports, genetics in 12, neurological pathways in 11, environmental factors in 10, and gut microbiota in 7. An accurate physiological and pathological anamnesis, physical and psychological examination, including the body perception, should be taken in account as well as the presence of co-morbidities, including chronic functional abdominal pain and autoimmune/autoinflammatory diseases. Evidence suggests the role of familiar predisposition as well as of neurological morphology and pathway in anorexia nervosa development. Gut microbiota has also been included among possible risk factor for developing anorexia nervosa due to a complex direct and indirect interactions between gut and brain. The Italian Pediatric Society Adolescent Study Group suggests performing an accurate familial and personal anamnesis, including psychological evaluation as well as a physical exam including auxological parameters as a screening tool during pediatric checks to better explore the risk of developing anorexia nervosa.

The paper analyses the effects of modifying traffic light regulations at urban road junctions, focussing on the ratio between green time and cycle time, as a function of vehicular traffic variables (flows, density and speed) on the links. The analyses are conducted in an urban setting using a before-and-after approach, employing traffic data detected by loop detectors and traffic light control parameters (the ratio between green time and cycle time) that were actually implemented. The data pertain to a central street in the city of Santander (Spain), collected during several significant weeks in different periods corresponding to varying demands for mobility. In the context of existing studies on the flow-density diagram, a function is estimated that considers the ratio between green time and cycle time as the independent variable and link capacity as the dependent variable. The analysis at the link level may be extended in the future to the network level by incorporating the network fundamental diagram into the traffic signal setting design problem., Author(s): Borja Alonso [1]; Salvatore Del Giudice [2]; Giuseppe Musolino (corresponding author) [3]; Antonino Vitetta [3] 1. Introduction There is a well-established body of scientific literature that defines the unimodal [...]

Science is among humanitys greatest achievements, yet scientific censorship is rarely studied empirically. We explore the social, psychological, and institutional causes and consequences of scientific censorship (defined as actions aimed at obstructing particular scientific ideas from reaching an audience for reasons other than low scientific quality). Popular narratives suggest that scientific censorship is driven by authoritarian officials with dark motives, such as dogmatism and intolerance. Our analysis suggests that scientific censorship is often driven by scientists, who are primarily motivated by self-protection, benevolence toward peer scholars, and prosocial concerns for the well-being of human social groups. This perspective helps explain both recent findings on scientific censorship and recent changes to scientific institutions, such as the use of harm-based criteria to evaluate research. We discuss unknowns surrounding the consequences of censorship and provide recommendations for improving transparency and accountability in scientific decision-making to enable the exploration of these unknowns. The benefits of censorship may sometimes outweigh costs. However, until costs and benefits are examined empirically, scholars on opposing sides of ongoing debates are left to quarrel based on competing values, assumptions, and intuitions.

Abstract Objectives To assess the impact of a positive history of venous thromboembolism (VTE) on perioperative outcomes, including length of in‐hospital stay, readmission rates, 90‐day postoperative complications, and healthcare costs in bladder cancer (BCa) patients undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) in the United States. Patients and Methods Patients aged ≥18 years with a BCa diagnosis undergoing TURBT were identified in the Merative® Marketscan® Research de‐identified databases between 2007 and 2021. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted by relevant perioperative confounders was used to investigate the association between diagnosis of VTE before TURBT and 90‐day complication rates, new postoperative VTE events, re‐hospitalization, and total hospital expenditures (2021 US dollars). Sensitivity analyses on VTE severity (pulmonary embolism [PE], deep venous thrombosis [DVT] or superficial thrombophlebitis/phlebitis [SVT]), as well as TURBT extent (minor vs. major) were additionally examined. Results In total, 139 800 patients were identified, with 5.3% having preoperative VTE, including DVT (n = 3112, 42.20%), PE (n = 2046, 27.74%) and SVT (n = 2217, 30.06%). A history of preoperative VTE predicted higher rates of any complication (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.28, 95% CI 1.14–1.43) and also higher rates of infectious and haemorrhagic complications. Additionally, preoperative VTE increased the risk of novel VTE events following TURBT (aOR 17.30, 95% CI 16.05–18.65), hospital length of stay (aOR 2.23, 95% CI 1.90–2.62), readmissions (aOR 1.47, 95% CI 1.39–1.56), and hospital associated costs (aOR 1.17, 95% CI 1.12–1.23). DVT and non‐minor TURBT procedures did not increase the risk of any, infectious, or haemorrhagic complications, but other associations were maintained regardless of the severity of VTE (PE, DVT, SVT) or TURBT extent (minor/major). Conclusions A history of VTE before undergoing transurethral procedures for BCa is associated with significantly worse perioperative outcomes and higher healthcare costs. These findings may help us to counsel on the risks of the intervention and hopefully improve our ability to mitigate such risks.

BackgroundAge-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide, particularly among the elderly population. Two forms of late AMD are described: neovascular AMD (nAMD), characterized by abnormal choroidal blood vessel growth, and atrophic (dry) AMD, involving retinal cell degeneration. Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents have transformed nAMD treatment, with Brolucizumab emerging as a promising therapy. The aim of this study is to provide the real-life anatomical-functional and safety results, after 1 year of treatment experience with Brolucizumab.MethodsThis is a retrospective observational real-life study in which 44 patients (44 eyes) diagnosed with nAMD and treated with Brolucizumab were enrolled. We identified two groups: group 1 (24 treatment-naïve eyes) that received a loading dose of 3 monthly intravitreal injections of Broluciziumab 6 mg (0.05 mL solution) + Q8w/Q12w regimen, and a Group 2 (20 non-naïve eyes) which performed 1 injection + ProReNata (PRN) scheme. Monthly, all participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation until 12 months follow-up.ResultsWe observed a significant improvement in best corrected visual acuity (39 ± 15 L vs. 30 ± 17 L; p

Complexity theory provides an essential framework for analysing buildings as complex systems, influenced by the interaction of architectural, structural and building services elements. To manage this complexity, BIM methods and tools for Facility Management leverage the language of drawing to represent the complexity of data and optimise its management. The analysis of more than three thousand rooms of the Piedmont Region Palace as a case study for this contribution demonstrates how algorithms and automatisms can facilitate the management of large amounts of data to improve the visualisation and interpretation of information. This paper examines the value of graphical interfaces in revealing hidden logics of complexity and transforming them into resources available to users for a new decision support system. Article info Received: 10/09/2024; Revised: 11/10/2024; Accepted: 14/10/2024

In diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) treatment response relies on imaging. We investigated the potential value of molecular measurable residual disease (MRD) on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to predict patient outcomes. We retrospectively evaluated 73 patients. Analyses were conducted on 57 tumor biopsies, based on sample availability. At baseline, next-generation sequencing was used to detect clonal immunoglobulin (IG) gene rearrangements on tumor biopsies and ctDNA. MRD monitoring was applied by tracking the IG clones in ctDNA samples collected during treatment (interim) and at the end of treatment (EOT). MRD results were correlated with clinical data and radiologic disease assessment. Before treatment, clonal IG were found in 91.2% (52/57) of tumor biopsies and in 93.2% (68/73) of ctDNA samples. In paired samples, the same clonotype was found in 69.2% (36/52) of cases. At the interim analysis, ctDNA MRD was negative in 32/45 evaluable patients and positive in 13/45, correlating significantly with progression-free survival (PFS) (78.1% MRD- vs 30.8% MRD+; p

Background: Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a major health concern in Europe, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Survivors often suffer from cognitive deficits, anxiety, and depression, that affect significantly their quality of life. Current post-discharge care is inconsistent and frequently overlooks subtle but disabling symptoms. The ENFORCER trial aims to significantly enhance the health and quality of life of OHCA survivors by providing a comprehensive, accessible, and user-friendly internet-based lifestyle intervention. Methods: ENFORCER is a multicentre, parallel group randomized controlled trial involving OHCA survivors aged 18–80 years with cognitive impairment or anxiety/depression measured through validated instruments.Participants will be randomized 1:1 to the intervention or the control group. The intervention group will receive a one-year program via a secure web application, offering cognitive, emotional, and physical rehabilitation support. The control group will receive standard care.The primary outcome is the difference in the proportion of patients without cognitive or emotional symptoms between the two groups after one year.Secondary outcomes include changes in the level of patients’ cognitive and emotional symptoms, quality of life, sleep quality, sexual interest and satisfaction, and caregivers’ burden, quality of life, sleep quality and emotional symptoms in the two groups. Discussion: The trial addresses the need for consistent post-discharge care, and the timely detection and treatment of cognitive and emotional problems. The internet-based approach allows to potentially reach many patients, ensuring cost-effectiveness and high adherence rates.The study results could establish a standard for post-OHCA care, improving long-term recovery and quality of life for survivors.Trial registration.The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06395558).

In recent years, the practice of using laser scanners or other technologies to create point clouds describing historical artifacts has become consolidated. The purpose of these surveys method is to carefully inspect architectural heritage elements. In this contest, H-BIM approach associates the geometric objects derived from these surveys with information useful for various fields (e.g., the maintenance or history of the elements). In this contribution, an analysis is made of the data required to use BIM models in extended reality (XR) applications to optimize the data accessibility for several end users (e.g., museum visitors, frails people).DOI: https://doi.org/10.20365/disegnarecon.32.2024.9

Introduction & Objectives: Revision ureteric reconstruction is often very challenging due to limited ureteric length and compromised blood supply. We aimed to describe a technique of a non-transecting augmentation ureteroplasty with buccal mucosal graft for a patient with a recurrent ureteric stricture. This technique was adapted from the urethroplasty literature and applied to upper tract reconstruction. Methods: A 70 year old male had previously underwent a diverticulectomy and boari flap reimplantation for urothelial cancer. The anastomosis strictured and a revision ureteric reimplantation was performed which also subsequently strictured. A stent was not able to be placed across the stricture so the patient was nephrostomy dependent. A buccal mucosal graft augmentation was performed using a muco-mucosal anastomotic non-transecting augmentation (MANTA) technique adapted from the urethroplasty literature Results: The patient recovered well and was discharged day 3. A cystogram was performed and catheter removed at 4 weeks. The stent was removed at 6 weeks and a retrograde pyelogram showed a normal ureteric caliber. A MAG-3 renogram at 3 months showed no obstruction Conclusions: We describe a novel technique for difficult revision upper tract reconstruction cases.

Respiratory infections are a relevant issue during infancy and childhood, constituting a major source of morbidity and imposing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Conditions such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and influenza exemplify the gravity of these infections among pediatric populations. In the context of this health challenge, resveratrol, a naturally occurring polyphenolic antioxidant has emerged as a focal point of extensive research, known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. This comprehensive review delves into the compound's extensive antimicrobial activities against a diverse range of bacteria and viruses, both as a standalone agent and in combination with conventional antibiotics. This compound exhibits notable antiviral activity against viruses implicated in severe respiratory infections, offering a potential therapeutic avenue. By exploring the antiviral mechanisms and highlighting the anti-inflammatory potential of resveratrol, this comprehensive overview contributes to a deeper understanding of its applicability in mitigating the complexities associated with pediatric respiratory infections.

This paper presents an accurate and efficient initialization strategy for modular multilevel converters (MMCs) based on the shooting method, a numerical technique aimed at deriving the periodic steady-state operating condition of any circuit. This technique is compatible with MMC models of different levels of detail and whose control scheme may include modulation strategies and capacitor voltage balancing algorithms. Electromagnetic transient simulations of the NORDIC32 power system modified by adding a high-voltage direct current link with 128-level MMCs prove that the proposed initialization strategy allows starting simulations close to steady-state, thereby significantly limiting initialization transients and their corresponding extra CPU time.

The emergence of vaccinomics and system vaccinology represents a transformative shift in immunization strategies, advocating for personalized vaccines tailored to individual genetic and immunological profiles. Integrating insights from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and immunology, personalized vaccines offer the promise of enhanced efficacy and safety, revolutionizing the field of vaccinology. However, the development of personalized vaccines presents multifaceted challenges, including technical, ethical, economic, and regulatory considerations. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure equitable access and safety of personalized vaccination strategies. Despite these hurdles, the potential of personalized vaccines to optimize responses and mitigate disease burden underscores the significance of ongoing research and collaboration in advancing precision medicine in immunization.