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Reading and arithmetic are distinct academic skills that share similarities in skill acquisition and use. Previous research investigated the cognitive basis of associations and dissociations between reading and arithmetic by using either subtyping or dimensional approaches. In the current study, we aim to bridge the gap between these two approaches by investigating common and distinct predictors of reading and arithmetic at different performance levels with quantile regression models. This allowed us to look more closely at the lower tail of the ability distributions, and to test whether predictions for children with low reading and arithmetic fluency differed from the typical performance range. We analyzed longitudinal data of 357 children speaking English or German. Outcome variables were reading and arithmetic fluency assessed at the end of Grade 1, 2, and 3. Predictors were assessed in Grade 1. Results confirmed nonverbal IQ and working memory as domain-general predictors of reading and arithmetic. The association of reading and arithmetic was mainly explained by nonverbal IQ, phonological awareness, RAN and multi-digit transcoding. Across grades and performance levels, phonological awareness and RAN made a specific contribution to reading. Magnitude processing and multi-digit transcoding were specific predictors of arithmetic. Counting also made a specific prediction to arithmetic in Grade 3, but only in the low performance range. Our findings indicate partly distinct underlying cognitive mechanisms for reading and arithmetic. Shared predictors are involved in retrieval efficiency, language processing and cross-format integration. These results have important implications, as they suggest that most predictors are equally relevant for children with low, typical or even excellent reading and arithmetic fluency.

Tissue-engineered skin substitutes are promising tools to cover large and deep skin defects. However, the lack of a synergic and fast regeneration of the vascular network, nerves, and skin appendages limits complete skin healing and impairs functional recovery. It has been highlighted that an ideal skin substitute should mimic the structure of the native tissue to enhance clinical effectiveness. Here, we produced a pre-vascularized dermis (PVD) comprised of fibroblasts embedded in their own extracellular matrix (ECM) and a capillary-like network. Upon implantation in a mouse full-thickness skin defect model, we observed a very early innervation of the graft in 2 weeks. In addition, mouse capillaries and complete epithelialization were detectable as early as 1 week after implantation and, skin appendages developed in 2 weeks. These anatomical features underlie the interaction with the skin nerves, thus providing a further cue for reinnervation guidance. Further, the graft displays mechanical properties, collagen density, and assembly features very similar to the host tissue. Taken together our data show that the pre-existing ECM components of the PVD, physiologically organized and assembled similarly to the native tissue, support a rapid regeneration of dermal tissue. Therefore, our results suggest a promising potential for PVD in skin regeneration.

BackgroundSeveral systematic reviews (SRs) assessing the use of telemedicine for musculoskeletal conditions have been published in recent years. However, the landscape of evidence on multiple clinical outcomes remains unclear. ObjectiveWe aimed to summarize the available evidence from SRs on telemedicine for musculoskeletal disorders. MethodsWe conducted an umbrella review of SRs with and without meta-analysis by searching PubMed and EMBASE up to July 25, 2022, for SRs of randomized controlled trials assessing telemedicine. We collected any kind of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), patient-reported experience measures (PREMs), and objective measures, including direct and indirect costs. We assessed the methodological quality with the AMSTAR 2 tool (A Measurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2). Findings were reported qualitatively. ResultsOverall, 35 SRs published between 2015 and 2022 were included. Most reviews (n=24, 69%) were rated as critically low quality by AMSTAR 2. The majority of reviews assessed “telerehabilitation” (n=29) in patients with osteoarthritis (n=13) using PROMs (n=142 outcomes mapped with n=60 meta-analyses). A substantive body of evidence from meta-analyses found telemedicine to be beneficial or equal in terms of PROMs compared to conventional care (n=57 meta-analyses). Meta-analyses showed no differences between groups in PREMs (n=4), while objectives measures (ie, “physical function”) were mainly in favor of telemedicine or showed no difference (9/13). All SRs showed notably lower costs for telemedicine compared to in-person visits. ConclusionsTelemedicine can provide more accessible health care with noninferior results for various clinical outcomes in comparison with conventional care. The assessment of telemedicine is largely represented by PROMs, with some gaps for PREMs, objective measures, and costs. Trial RegistrationPROSPERO CRD42022347366; https://osf.io/pxedm/

This research delves into the profound significance of the Science of Representation, demonstrating its pivotal role in crafting semantic and interoperable analysis. The adept application of these ‘mediums’ could represent a primary shift for future generations in how information is conceptualized, interpreted, represented, and communicated, ultimately fostering a deeper level of understanding and collaboration among professionals in the field. In this context, the convergence of digital representation, knowledge-driven semantic refinement, and techniques for intricate model conversion could assume a foundational role. Given these paramount considerations, the study emphasizes the urgency of establishing interoperable procedures and cultivating a comprehensive understanding of digital representation as a crucial informational medium.The results served as vessels for disseminating archaeological knowledge and as powerful tools for dissecting the structural intricacies of ancient environments. To achieve this, a highly specialized cognitive process was required to elucidate both the tangible and intangible elements within the ontological framework. The introduction of the interoperable approach at the archaeological site of Villa dei Quintili in Rome served as a prime example of the critical function of digital models able to interpret, disseminate, and preserve our cultural heritage accurately. It proved instrumental, both theoretically and practically, in transferring geometries and information for diverse analytical purposes, significantly enhancing their effectiveness through a thoughtfully selected range of exchange formats for preservation and structural analysis. Finally, the study introduces a methodology for translating digital models into advanced mediums, including extended reality (XR), pushing the boundaries of heritage preservation in the digital age.DOI: https://doi.org/10.20365/disegnarecon.30.2023.25

Eleonora Volpato,1,2 Paolo Banfi,2 Francesco Pagnini1,3 1Department of Psychology, Universita’ Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy; 2IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy; 3Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USACorrespondence: Eleonora Volpato, Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Via Nirone, 15 CAP. 20123, Milan, Italy, Email eleonora.volpato@unicatt.itIntroduction: The main aim was to gain insight into the experience of adult people with a diagnosis of at least 6-months of mild or moderate persistent asthma according to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), and their emotions, beliefs, and expectations during the first wave of COVID-19.Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) were carried out by phone involving 31 people (mean age=58.2; SD=16.2). Interviews were audio recording, transcribed verbatim and analysed through thematic analysis.Results: Five superordinate themes and themes were dedicated to illness (symptoms of asthma; difficulties related to COVID-19), experienced emotions (lockdown period; medical changes; emotions COVID-19 related), beliefs (about asthma; about COVID-19), expectations (related to asthma; related to COVID-19) and behaviours (to protect; risk taken; adherence; contacts with General Practitioners; support). The prevalence of emotions such as fear, worry and anxiety emerged in the participants’ narratives. All are accompanied by a preference for action and problem solving. A sense of protection, connection to self and other, and commitment to life were revealed as central concepts for enhancing well-being even at a time of deterring.Discussion: The common threads of the presence of uncertainty and vulnerability open the outlook of a treatment that ensures greater continuity and ownership of care in the patient, preserving the sense of self-efficacy even in times of greater instability.Keywords: asthma, interpretative phenomenological analysis, COVID-19, clinical psychology

Matteo Briguglio,1 Claudio Cordani,2,3 Francesco Langella,4 Paolo Perazzo,5 Fabrizio Ernesto Pregliasco,6,7 Giuseppe Banfi,3,8 Thomas W Wainwright9,10 1Laboratory of Nutritional Sciences, IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Milan, Italy; 2Department of Biomedical, Surgical, and Dental Sciences, University “La Statale”, Milan, Italy; 3Scientific Direction, IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Milan, Italy; 4GSpine4, IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Milan, Italy; 5Intensive Care Unit, IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Milan, Italy; 6Health Management, IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Milan, Italy; 7Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; 8Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; 9Orthopaedic Research Institute, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK; 10Physiotherapy Department, University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, Bournemouth, UKCorrespondence: Matteo Briguglio, IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi – Sant’Ambrogio, Via Cristina Belgioioso 173, Milan, 20157, Italy, Tel +0039 02 83502224, Email matteo.briguglio@grupposandonato.itAbstract: Individuals with severe cartilage degeneration of the hip or knee or collapsed vertebrae that cause spine deformities can suffer from joint and neuropathic pain in the back, disuse of the affected limb, and restriction of movements. Surgical intervention is the most widespread and successful solution to date. There is a general belief that eating healthy and staying physically and mentally active might have a preventive role against musculoskeletal disease occurrence, while instead, we are more certain of the benefits deriving from a healthy diet and exercise therapy after major orthopaedic procedures. These aspects are in fact vital components in enhanced recovery after surgery programmes. However, they are applied in hospital settings, are often centre-dependent, and lack primary and tertiary preventive efficacy since end once the patient is discharged. There is the lack of initiatives at the territorial level that ensure a continuum in the patient’s journey towards orthopaedic surgery, home transition, and a healthy and long-lasting life. The expert panel advocates the integration of an intermediate lifestyle clinic that promotes healthy eating, physical activity, and sleep hygiene. In this facility directed by professionals in enhancing recovery after surgery, patients can be referred after the surgical indication and before home discharge. Surgery is in fact a moment when individuals are more curious to do their best to heal and stay healthy, representing a timepoint and opportunity for educating patients on how lifestyle changes may optimise not only their surgical recovery but also long-term future health state.Keywords: access to health care, health care facilities, manpower, services, surgeries, orthopaedic rehabilitation, dietary habits, physical therapy modalities, good sleep habit

Abstract Background The risk of proximal femoral fractures increases with aging, causing significant morbidity, disability, mortality and socioeconomic pressure. The aims of the present work are (1) to investigate the epidemiology and incidence of these fractures among the elderly in the Region of Lombardy; (2) to identify the factors influencing survival; (3) to identify the factors influencing hospitalization and post-operative costs. Methods The Region of Lombardy provided anonymized datasets on hospitalized patients with a femoral neck fracture between 2011 and 2016, and anonymized datasets on extra-hospital treatments to track the patient history between 2008 and 2019. Statistical evaluations included descriptive statistics, survival analysis, Cox regression and multiple linear models. Results 71,920 older adults suffered a femoral fracture in Lombardy between 2011 and 2016. 76.3% of patients were females and the median age was 84. The raw incidence of fractures was stable from year 2011 to year 2016, while the age-adjusted incidence diminished. Pertrochanteric fractures were more spread than transcervical fractures. In patients treated with surgery, receiving treatment within 48 h reduced the hazard of death within the next 24 months. Combined surgical procedures led to increased hazard in comparison with arthroplasty alone, while no differences were observed between different arthroplasties and reduction or fixation. In patients treated conservatively, age and male gender were associated with higher hazard of death. All patients considered, the type of surgery was the main factor determining primary hospitalization costs. A higher number of surgeries performed by the index hospital in the previous year was associated with financial savings. The early intervention significantly correlated with minor costs. Conclusions The number of proximal femoral fractures is increasing even if the age-adjusted incidence is decreasing. This is possibly due to prevention policies focused on the oldest cohort of the population. Two policies proved to be significantly beneficial in clinical and financial terms: the centralization of patients in high-volume hospitals and a time limit of 48 h from fracture to surgery. Trial registration Non applicable.

Abstract Background and objective N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and soluble interleukin 1 receptor-like 1 ST2 (sST2) are biomarkers used to grade heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) severity. Both are potential targets of HFrEF treatment, but the first is associated with the patient’s hemodynamic status, while the second is more indicative of the inflammatory status and of myocardial fibrosis. The aim of this study was to assess the kinetics of these biomarkers after treatment with sacubitril/valsartan in HFrEF. Methods We analyzed blood samples of patients with HFrEF at baseline (before sacubitril/valsartan treatment), after 1, 2, and 3 months (respectively, after a month taking the 24/26 – 49/51 – 97/103 mg twice daily, or b.i.d., doses), and 6 months after the maximum-tolerated dose was reached (end study). Results We obtained samples from 72 patients with HFrEF (age 64.0 ± 10.5 years, 83% males). NT-proBNP and sST2 values progressively and significantly reduced to 37% and 16%, respectively, with a greater reduction for NT-proBNP (p < 0.001). Specifically, NT-proBNP reduced from 1144 [593–2586] pg/mL to 743 [358–1524] pg/mL and sST2 from 27.3 [20.5–35.0] ng/mL to 23.1 [15.9–30.7] ng/mL, p for trend < 0.001 in both cases. The reduction of the two biomarkers over time occurred with statistically significant different kinetics: deferred for sST2 and faster for NT-proBNP. No significant changes in renal function and potassium levels were recorded. Conclusion These findings suggest that, in patients with HF, sacubitril/valsartan effects on the cardiovascular system share a double pathway: a first, hemodynamic, faster pathway and a second, non-hemodynamic anti-fibrotic, delayed one. Both likely contribute to the sacubitril/valsartan benefits in HFrEF.

Abstract We present a new semi-numerical method to compute leading hadronisation corrections to two-jet event shapes in e + e − annihilation. The formalism we present utilises the dispersive approach, where the magnitude of power corrections is controlled by suitable moments of an effective strong coupling, but it can be adapted to other methods. We focus on observables where the interplay between perturbative and non-perturbative effects is crucial in determining the power corrections. A naive treatment of power corrections for some of these observables gives rise to an unphysical behaviour in the corresponding distributions for moderate observable values, thus considerably limiting the available range to fit the non-perturbative moments. We present a universal treatment to handle such observables, based on a suitable subtraction procedure, and compare our results to the analytic result in the case of total broadening. Finally, for the first time we present predictions for the thrust major, which cannot be handled with analytic methods.

Digital therapeutics refers to smartphone applications, software, and wearable devices that provide digital solutions to improve healthcare delivery. We developed a digital platform to support the GYM (Grow Your Muscle) study, an ongoing 48-week randomized, controlled trial on reduction of sarcopenia through a home-based, app-monitored physical exercise intervention. The GYM platform consists of a smartphone application including the exercise program and video tutorials of body-weight exercises, a wearable device to monitor heart rate during training, and a website for downloading training data to remotely monitor the exercise. The aim of this paper is to describe the platform in detail and to discuss the technical issues emerging during the study and those related to usability of the smartphone application through a retrospective survey. The main technical issue concerned the API level 33 upgrade, which did not enable participants using the Android operating systems to use the wearable device. The survey revealed some problems with viewing the video tutorials and with internet or smartphone connection. On the other hand, the smartphone application was reported to be easy to use and helpful to guide home exercising. Despite the issues encountered during the study, this digital-supported physical exercise intervention could provide useful to improve muscle measures of sarcopenia.

Background: Different specific surfactant proteins (SPs) have been associated with various pathological conditions, not only of the respiratory system, but also more recently with cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of SP-A, SP-D, and the precursor protein of SP-B (proSP-B) in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular damage in patients affected by type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: The study considered 31 patients with T2D (DN group), 34 patients with both T2D and coronary heart disease (CHD) (DC group), and 30 patients without diabetes but with a diagnosis of CHD (NC group). SP-A, SP-D, and proSP-B concentrations were determined in plasma samples, and were statistically compared using parametric and multivariate methods. Results: Higher plasma concentrations of SP-D and proSP-B were found in patients affected by both T2D and CHD (DC group), and in patients with CHD without diabetes (NC group), in comparison to T2D patients (DN group). A significant correlation, both with linear regression (r = 0.3565, p = 0.001) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), was found between the plasma levels of SP-D and proSP-B in the overall cohort of patients. No differences in SP-A were observed among the three groups of subjects. Conclusion: The present study extends the knowledge on the role of plasma SPs’ levels as possible indicators of the risk of CHD being linked to T2D disease progression.

The rapid spread of SARS-COV-2 and the millions of worldwide deaths and hospitalizations have prompted an urgent need for the development of screening tests capable of rapidly and accurately detecting the virus, even in asymptomatic people. The easy collection and the biomarker content of saliva, together with the label-free and informative power of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) analysis have driven the creation of point-of-care platforms capable of identifying people with COVID-19. Indeed, different salivary fingerprints were observed between uninfected and infected people. Hence, we performed a retrospective analysis of SERS spectra from salivary samples of COVID-19-infected and -vaccinated subjects to understand if viral components and/or the immune response are implicated in spectral variations. The high sensitivity of the proposed SERS-based method highlighted the persistence of molecular alterations in saliva up to one month after the first positive swab, even when the subject tested negative for the rapid antigenic test. Nevertheless, no specific spectral patterns attributable to some viral proteins and immunoglobulins involved in COVID-19 infection and its progression were found, even if differences in peak intensity, presence, and position were observed in the salivary SERS fingerprint.

Valvular disease is a complex pathological condition that impacts countless individuals around the globe. Due to limited treatments, it is crucial to understand its mechanisms to identify new targets. Valve disease may result in pulmonary venous hypertension, which is linked to compromised functioning of the alveolar and capillary membranes and hindered gas exchange. Nonetheless, the correlation between surfactant proteins (SPs) and valve disease remains unexplored. A total of 44 patients were enrolled in this study, with 36 undergoing aortic valve replacement and 8 needing a second aortic valve substitution due to bioprosthetic valve degeneration. Ten healthy subjects were also included. The results showed that patients who underwent both the first valve replacement and the second surgery had significantly higher levels of immature SP-B (proSP-B) compared to control subjects. The levels of the extra-lung collectin SP-D were higher in patients who needed a second surgery due to bioprosthetic valve degeneration, while SP-A levels remained unchanged. The research also showed that there was no reciprocal relationship between inflammation and SP-D as the levels of inflammatory mediators did not differ between groups. The present study demonstrates that circulating proSP-B serves as a reliable marker of alveolar–capillary membrane damage in patients with valvular heart disease.

Traumatic brain injury is a significant global health issue, affecting approximately 69 million people annually. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management, and biomarkers provide a promising approach to identifying traumatic brain injury in various settings. This study investigates the perceived usefulness of biomarker testing in two distinct contexts: emergency departments and sports settings. Comprehensive interviews were conducted among healthcare professionals in emergency departments and sports-related medical staff. The interviews assessed their perceptions of the diagnostic accuracy, practicality, and overall value of traumatic brain injury biomarker testing. The findings indicate that the perceived usefulness of biomarker testing is high among professionals in both settings. However, significant differences emerged in the perceived barriers to implementation, with emergency department staff citing logistical issues and sports professionals expressing cost concerns. Addressing identified barriers could enhance the adoption and effectiveness of these tests, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Future research should focus on optimizing testing protocols and reducing implementation challenges. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of mild traumatic brain injury biomarkers within the framework of value-based health care, focusing on diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.

ABCA4 is the most frequently mutated gene leading to inherited retinal disease (IRD) with over 2200 pathogenic variants reported to date. Of these, ~1% are copy number variants (CNVs) involving the deletion or duplication of genomic regions, typically >50 nucleotides in length. An in-depth assessment of the current literature based on the public database LOVD, regarding the presence of known CNVs and structural variants in ABCA4, and additional sequencing analysis of ABCA4 using single-molecule Molecular Inversion Probes (smMIPs) for 148 probands highlighted recurrent and novel CNVs associated with ABCA4-associated retinopathies. An analysis of the coverage depth in the sequencing data led to the identification of eleven deletions (six novel and five recurrent), three duplications (one novel and two recurrent) and one complex CNV. Of particular interest was the identification of a complex defect, i.e., a 15.3 kb duplicated segment encompassing exon 31 through intron 41 that was inserted at the junction of a downstream 2.7 kb deletion encompassing intron 44 through intron 47. In addition, we identified a 7.0 kb tandem duplication of intron 1 in three cases. The identification of CNVs in ABCA4 can provide patients and their families with a genetic diagnosis whilst expanding our understanding of the complexity of diseases caused by ABCA4 variants.

Atherosclerosis is a complex condition that involves the accumulation of lipids and subsequent plaque formation in the arterial intima. There are various stimuli, cellular receptors, and pathways involved in this process, but oxidative modifications of low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) are particularly important in the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. Ox-LDLs promote foam-cell formation, activate proinflammatory pathways, and induce smooth-muscle-cell migration, apoptosis, and cell death. One of the major receptors for ox-LDL is LOX-1, which is upregulated in several cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis. LOX-1 activation in endothelial cells promotes endothelial dysfunction and induces pro-atherogenic signaling, leading to plaque formation. The binding of ox-LDLs to LOX-1 increases the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can induce LOX-1 expression and oxidize LDLs, contributing to ox-LDL generation and further upregulating LOX-1 expression. This creates a vicious circle that is amplified in pathological conditions characterized by high plasma levels of LDLs. Although LOX-1 has harmful effects, the clinical significance of inhibiting this protein remains unclear. Further studies both in vitro and in vivo are needed to determine whether LOX-1 inhibition could be a potential therapeutic target to counteract the atherosclerotic process.

Abstract Background Non-syndromic inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) such as retinitis pigmentosa or Leber congenital amaurosis generally manifest between early childhood and late adolescence, imposing profound long-term impacts as a result of vision impairment or blindness. IRDs are highly heterogeneous, with often overlapping symptoms among different IRDs, and achieving a definite diagnosis is challenging. This narrative review provides a clinical overview of the non-syndromic generalized photoreceptor dystrophies, particularly retinitis pigmentosa and Leber congenital amaurosis. The clinical investigations and genetic testing needed to establish a diagnosis are outlined, and current management approaches are discussed, focusing on the importance of the involvement of an interdisciplinary team from diagnosis and initial care to long-term follow-up and support. Results The effective management of IRDs requires a multidisciplinary, and ideally interdisciplinary, team of experts knowledgeable about IRDs, with experienced professionals from fields as diverse as ophthalmology, neuropsychiatry, psychology, neurology, genetics, orthoptics, developmental therapy, typhlology, occupational therapy, otolaryngology, and orientation and mobility specialties. Accurate clinical diagnosis encompasses a range of objective and subjective assessments as a prerequisite for the genetic testing essential in establishing an accurate diagnosis necessary for the effective management of IRDs, particularly in the era of gene therapies. Improvements in genome sequencing techniques, such as next-generation sequencing, have greatly facilitated the complex process of determining IRD-causing gene variants and establishing a molecular diagnosis. Genetic counseling is essential to help the individual and their family understand the condition, the potential risk for offspring, and the implications of a diagnosis on visual prognosis and treatment options. Psychological support for patients and caregivers is important at all stages of diagnosis, care, and rehabilitation and is an essential part of the multidisciplinary approach to managing IRDs. Effective communication throughout is essential, and the patient and caregivers’ needs and expectations must be acknowledged and discussed. Conclusion As IRDs can present at an early age, clinicians need to be aware of the clinical signs suggesting visual impairment and follow up with multidisciplinary support for timely diagnoses to facilitate appropriate therapeutic or rehabilitation intervention to minimize vision loss.

Valentina Poletti,1 Francesco Pagnini,1 Paolo Banfi,2 Eleonora Volpato1,2 1Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy; 2IRCCS Fondazione Don Gnocchi, Milan, ItalyCorrespondence: Valentina Poletti, Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy, Email valentina.poletti@unicatt.itBackground: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. Besides its irreversibility, COPD is a treatable condition, and patients would strongly benefit from being adherent to their treatments. However, almost half of them are non-adherent, and, according to several recent studies, the way the patient perceives the disease might influence this variable.Aim: This systematic review provided a synthesis of studies about the relationships between illness perceptions (IP), cognitions, beliefs, and adherence in COPD.Methods: English language publications were searched in PubMed, Medline, Scopus, ResearchGate, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library databases from November 2022 to February 2023, following PRISMA guidelines. The reference lists of eligible studies were also searched. Data extraction and critical appraisal were undertaken by two reviewers working independently.Results: A total of 14 studies were included. Adherence to treatment in COPD is confirmed to be low, using both self-report questionnaires and objective assessment systems. Most studies concluded that COPD is perceived as a moderate threat destined to last forever, even if many participants referred to little disease knowledge. This perception did not change between adherent and non-adherent groups. Those who considered more necessary to take their medicines and had a caregiver were more adherent and less concerned about their future. On the other side, forgetfulness, lack of trust in medications, and difficulties in understanding how to take them were perceived as the main causes of non-adherence. Other predictors of non-adherence, like depression, low self-efficacy, and severity of disease were confirmed.Conclusion: The systematic review highlights the variability of the relationship between IP, cognitions and beliefs, and COPD treatment adherence. A new level of awareness of the relationship between patients’ subjective point of view and treatment adherence may inform future treatment options and promote a more personalized intervention.Keywords: illness perception, COPD, adherence to treatment, illness cognition, illness belief

The Altamura Man and the paleontological remains are situated within a complex context encompassing logistical, geological, paleoenvironmental, and cultural perspectives. This context is exceptionally well-preserved but also fragile, requiring its preservation due to its unique nature. Unresolved inquiries exist in various disciplines, such as archaeology, biocultural studies, ecology, and geology, pertaining to karst formation, taphonomic dynamics, and the cultural and ecological context of the Neanderthal individual found in the cave. Interdisciplinary research was necessary to address these complex questions and understand the broader context of the Lamalunga Cave. Climate change also necessitated attention to preserving the cave’s microclimate and monitoring potential biodegradation. Digital technologies, including photogrammetry and laser scanning, were crucial for monitoring and safeguarding the cave’s cultural heritage. Digital representation, 3D modelling and Digital Twin were essential for managing the cave’s intricacies, analysing its values, and enhancing visual communication. The management of the Lamalunga cave aimed to promote scientific interpretation, safeguard the cave, and provide tools for understanding, storytelling, and further investigation. It was essential to utilise available methodologies and technologies while avoiding destructive interventions. Contemporary technologies have revolutionised the archaeological and paleoanthropological domains, enabling remote study and preservation. Protecting and comprehending the cultural heritage of the cave is linked to its usability, which can be enhanced through digital documentation methodologies to inform visitors about the karst context and promote social and economic development.

Abstract Background Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are heterogeneous conditions due to alterations of a variety of molecular mechanisms and cell dysfunctions. SETD5 haploinsufficiency leads to NDDs due to chromatin defects. Epigenetic basis of NDDs has been reported in an increasing number of cases while mitochondrial dysfunctions are more common within NDD patients than in the general population. Methods We investigated in vitro neural stem cells as well as the brain of the Setd5 haploinsufficiency mouse model interrogating its transcriptome, analyzing mitochondrial structure, biochemical composition, and dynamics, as well as mitochondrial functionality. Results Mitochondrial impairment is facilitated by transcriptional aberrations originated by the decrease of the SETD5 enzyme. Low levels of SETD5 resulted in fragmented mitochondria, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and ATP production both in neural precursors and neurons. Mitochondria were also mislocalized in mutant neurons, with reduced organelles within neurites and synapses. Limitations We found several defects in the mitochondrial compartment; however, we can only speculate about their position in the hierarchy of the pathological mechanisms at the basis of the disease. Conclusions Our study explores the interplay between chromatin regulation and mitochondria functions as a possible important aspect of SETD5-associated NDD pathophysiology. Our data, if confirmed in patient context, suggest that the mitochondrial activity and dynamics may represent new therapeutic targets for disorders associated with the loss of SETD5.

Abstract Within the chromatin, distal elements interact with promoters to regulate specific transcriptional programs. Histone acetylation, interfering with the net charges of the nucleosomes, is a key player in this regulation. Here, we report that the oncoprotein SET is a critical determinant for the levels of histone acetylation within enhancers. We disclose that a condition in which SET is accumulated, the severe Schinzel-Giedion Syndrome (SGS), is characterized by a failure in the usage of the distal regulatory regions typically employed during fate commitment. This is accompanied by the usage of alternative enhancers leading to a massive rewiring of the distal control of the gene transcription. This represents a (mal)adaptive mechanism that, on one side, allows to achieve a certain degree of differentiation, while on the other affects the fine and corrected maturation of the cells. Thus, we propose the differential in cis-regulation as a contributing factor to the pathological basis of SGS and possibly other the SET-related disorders in humans.

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of vascular flora alien to Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, exclusions for Italy or for Italian administrative regions. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrections are provided as Suppl. material 1.

In this contribution, new data concerning the distribution of native vascular flora in Italy are presented. It includes new records, confirmations, and exclusions to the Italian administrative regions. New combinations in the genera Pilosella and Roemeria are proposed. Furthermore, the name Papaver siculum is lectotypified. Nomenclatural and distribution updates, published elsewhere, and corrigenda are provided as Suppl. material 1.

People with severe acquired brain injury (pwSABI) frequently experience pulmonary complications. Among these, atelectasis can occur as a result of pneumonia, thus increasing the chance of developing acute respiratory failure. Respiratory physiotherapy contribution to the management of atelectasis in pwSABI is yet poorly understood. We conducted a retrospective analysis on 15 non-cooperative pwSABI with tracheostomy and spontaneously breathing, hospitalized and treated with high-frequency percussion physiotherapy between September 2018 and February 2021 at the Neurological Rehabilitation Unit of the IRCCS “S.Maria Nascente - Fondazione Don Gnocchi”, Milan. Our primary aim was to investigate the feasibility of such a physiotherapy intervention method. Then, we assessed changes in respiratory measures (arterial blood gas analysis and peripheral night-time oxygen saturation) and high-resolution computed tomography lung images, evaluated before and after the physiotherapy treatment. The radiological measures were a modified radiological atelectasis score (mRAS) assigned by two radiologists, and an opacity score automatically provided by the software CT Pneumonia Analysis® that identifies the regions of abnormal lung patterns. Treatment diaries showed that all treatments were completed, and no adverse events during treatment were registered. Among the 15 pwSABI analyzed, 8 were treated with IPV® and 7 with MetaNeb®. After a median of 14 (I-III quartile=12.5-14.5) days of treatment, we observed a statistical improvement in various arterial blood gas measures and peripheral night-time oxygen saturation measures. We also found radiological improvement or stability in more than 80% of pwSABI. In conclusion, our physiotherapy approach was feasible, and we observed respiratory parameters and radiological improvements. Using technology to assess abnormal tomographic patterns could be of interest to disentangle the short-term effects of respiratory physiotherapy on non-collaborating people.