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Abstract Background to evaluate the predictability of expansion achieved in patients in early mixed dentition treated with Clear Aligners (CA), analyzing the efficiency of the expansion at the end of the first set of aligners and at the end of the therapy in the upper and lower arch. Methods 36 patients (20 F, 16 M; mean age 8.3 ± 1.5 years) were selected retrospectively from the Department of Orthodontics of the Hospital of Rome “Tor Vergata”. All subjects were treated with CA with no other auxiliaries than attachments. For each patient a standardized sequential expansion protocol was planned for both arches. Digital dental casts were created at three observation periods from an intraoral scanner: prior to treatment (T0), at the end of the first set of aligners (T1), at the end of treatment (T2). The 3D models in planned position determined by the first Clincheck (CC) were obtained for comparison with T1 and T2. Six linear transversal measurements were used to evaluate the dimensional changes and the predictability of expansion movements, comparing T1-CC and T2-CC. Results a statistically significant increase within the pre-treatment and the final outcomes for all the variables examined was found. In the upper arch, the greatest level of predictability was detected at the level of the first (46.44%) and second deciduous molar width (44.95%) at T1. The analysis of T2-CC changes showed a significant increase in the percentage of predictability of expansion at the level of the first permanent molars, at mesial (54.86%) and distal (58.92%) width. In the lower arch, a higher percentage of predictability than the upper arch was reported at T1-CC and T2-CC, with the greatest values at the level of second (T1-CC: 48.70%; T2-CC: 75.32%) and first deciduous molar width (T1-CC: 45.71%; T2-CC: 72.75%). Conclusions CA can induce significant transversal increments. The predictability of expansion is variable, but it did not exceed the 50% during the first set of aligners. It was necessary to apply refinement set to achieve a good predictability for expansion of about 70%. The expansion in the lower arch was observed to be more predictable than in the upper arch.

This review discusses the challenges that hospitals face when caring for older patients in emergency departments and intensive care units. Beyond chronic diseases, the older person is often affected by acute events, which require, in addition to the typical knowledge of emergency medicine and anesthesia, the holistic and targeted approach of the comprehensive geriatric assessment in the emergency room and intensive care setting. With Italy’s health centers struggling to manage the increasing pressure of patients, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a geriatric approach to address this challenge. This review outlines the Geriatric 5Ms Model of Care, which addresses five domains, and the Domain Management Model, which provides acute medical management.

ObjectiveThe aim of the present retrospective study was to compare the changes resulting from treatment using the MA and the TB with special regard to the oro-and naso-pharyngeal sagittal airway dimensions in subjects with dentoskeletal Class II malocclusions and positive history of Sleep Disorder Breathing (SDB) diagnosed through the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ).Materials and methodsThis retrospective study involved 2 groups of subjects: patients treated with Twin Block (TB group: n = 22, 10 males, 12 females; mean age 12.0 ± 1.3 years) and patients treated with Mandibular Advancement (MA group: n = 23, 11 males, 12 females; mean age 12.2 ± 1.1 years). Pretreatment (T1) and posttreatment (T2) lateral cephalograms were analyzed. All patients underwent the PSQ to diagnose SDB.ResultsIn both treated groups there was an increase in the airways dimensions and an improvement in symptoms related SDB. The statistical comparison of the changes between T1 and T2 in the TB group showed a significant increment in upper airway size (PNS-AD2, +1.50 mm + −3.30; McNamara's upper pharynx dimension, +2.21 + −4.21) after active treatment. The MA group showed similar results during active treatment with a significant increase in both upper (PNS-AD2, +2.72 + −2.65; McNamara's upper pharynx dimension, +2.97 + −3.07) and lower (PNS-AD1, +2.17 mm + −3.54) airway size.ConclusionsDespite the different structure of these two devices and the different advancement protocols, both appliances were valuable as a suitable treatment option for Class II patients with respiratory disorders, inducing an increase of upper and lower airway size and a significant reduction in diurnal symptoms.

The present research focuses on the effects of different processing routes on the physical and mechanical properties of nano Ti(CN)-based cermets with metallic binders. Tungsten carbide (WC) is added as a secondary carbide and Ni-Co is added as a metallic binder to nano Ti(CN)-based cermet processed via conventional and spark plasma sintering (SPS). A systematic comparison of the composition and sintering conditions for different cermets’ systems was carried out to design novel composition and sintering conditions. Nano TiCN powder was prepared by 30 h of ball milling. The highest density of >98.5% was achieved for the SPS-processed cermets sintered at 1200 °C and 1250 °C for 3 min at 60 MPa of pressure in comparison to the conventionally sintered cermets at 1400 °C for 1 h with a two-stage compaction process—uniaxially at 150 MPa and isostatically at 300 MPa of pressure. Comparative X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of the milled powders at different time intervals was performed to understand the characteristics of the as-received and milled powders. Peak broadening was observed after 5 h of ball milling, and it increased to 30 hr. Also, peak broadening and a refined carbide size was observed in the XRD and scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs of the SPS-processed cermet. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis of the milled powder showed that its internal structure had a regular periodic arrangement of planes. SEM base scattered electron (BSE) images of all the cermets primarily showed three major microstructural phases of the core–rim–binder with black, grey, and white contrast, respectively. With the present sintering conditions, a high hardness of ~16 GPa and a fracture toughness of ~9 MPa m1/2 were obtained for SPS-processed cermets sintered at higher temperatures.

The approach to skeletal dysmorphisms in the maxillofacial area usually requires an orthodontic treatment by means of fixed appliances, both before and after the surgical phase. Since its introduction, Invisalign system has become a popular treatment choice for the clinicians because of the aesthetics and comfort of the removable clear aligners compared with the traditional appliances. Therefore, the aim of the present report was to illustrate the management of a malocclusion by means of clear aligners associated with the traditional surgical technique. The present paper shows a case of a 18-year-old female patient characterized by a Class III malocclusion with lateral deviation of the mandible. Clear aligners were used during the pre- and postsurgical phases rather than fixed appliances. The posttreatment cephalometric analysis emphasized the stability of the dental and skeletal symmetry corrections, occlusion and functional balance, over a 4-year follow-up. The results achieved at the end of the treatment showed how clear aligners can be effective in the management of the orthodontic phases in orthognathic surgery. The follow-up after 4 years emphasizes the stability of the treatment over time.

Abstract Background The sars-Cov-2 pandemic has determined psychological stress, particularly in the young population of medical students. We studied the impact of the pandemic on menstrual cycle alteration in relation to psychological stress, presence of depression, sleep disturbances and post-traumatic stress, on a population of medical students. Methods 293 female students at the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology of the Sapienza University of Rome (23.08 years old ± 3.8) were enrolled. In March 2021, one year after quarantine, a personal data sheet on menstrual cycle, examining the quality of the menstrual cycle during the pandemic, compared to the previous period. Concomitantly, the Beck Depression Inventory and the Impact of Event Scale have been administered. A Pearson chi-square test was assessed to evaluate the difference between the characteristics of the menstrual cycle and the scores obtained with the questionnaires. Results A statistically significant association between menstrual alterations and stress during pandemic had been found. The onset of depressive symptoms and sleep disturbances was observed in 57.1% and in 58.1% of young women with cycle’s alterations, respectively. Amenorrhea was three times more common in female students with depressive symptoms, premenstrual syndrome had a significant correlation with both depression and sleep disturbances. The pandemic has been related to menstrual alterations, with depressive symptoms and sleep disorders. Amenorrhea is connected to depression, as observed on the functional hypothalamic amenorrhea. Conclusions The pandemic affected the menstrual cycle as well as the depressive symptoms and sleep. Practical implications of the study lead to the development of strategies for psychological intervention during the pandemic experience, in order to help medical trainees, with specific attention to women’s needs. Future studies should analyze the impact of other types of social stress events, on sleep, depression and the menstrual cycle beside the pandemic.

If the term “genetics” is a relatively recent proposition, introduced in 1905 by English biologist William Bateson, who rediscovered and spread in the scientific community Mendel’s principles of inheritance, since the dawn of human civilization the influence of heredity has been recognized, especially in agricultural crops and animal breeding. And, later, in familial dynasties. In this concise review, we outline the evolution of the idea of hereditary hearing loss, up to the current knowledge of molecular genetics and epigenetics.

Abstract Left-sided acute diverticulitis in WSES Stage 0-IIb preferentially undergoes conservative management. However, there is limited understanding of the risk factors for failure of this approach. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with the decision to perform conservative treatment as well as the predictors of its failure. We included patients with a diagnosis of WSES diverticulitis CT-driven classification Stage 0-IIb treated in the Emergency Surgery Unit of the Agostino Gemelli University Hospital Foundation between 2014 and 2020. The endpoints were the comparison between the characteristics and clinical outcomes of acute diverticulitis patients undergoing conservative versus operative treatment. We also identified predictors of conservative treatment failure. A set of multivariable backward logistic analyses were conducted for this purpose. The study included 187 patients. The choice for operative versus conservative treatment was associated with clinical presentation, older age, higher WSES grade, and previous conservative treatment. There were 21% who failed conservative treatment. Of those, major morbidity and mortality rates were 17.9% and 7.1%, respectively. A previously failed conservative treatment as well as a greater WSES grade and a lower hemoglobin value were significantly associated with failure of conservative treatment. WSES classification and hemoglobin value at admission were the best predictors of failure of conservative treatment. Patients failing conservative treatment had non-negligible morbidity and mortality. These results promote the consideration of a combined approach including baseline patients’ characteristics, radiologic features, and laboratory biomarkers to predict conservative treatment failure and therefore optimize treatment of acute diverticulitis.

Background: Elderly individuals over 65, along with children under 5, are the most affected by invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPDs). Monitoring vaccination coverage and conducting surveillance are essential for guiding evidence-based prevention campaigns and public health measures. Methods: Since 2007, the Veneto Region has relied on three sources for surveillance of invasive bacterial infections, contributing to an increase in reported IPD cases. This study analyzed notifications related to individuals aged ≥65 years from 2007 to 2023. Results: A total of 1527 cases of IPDs in elderly individuals were reported between 2007 and 2023. The notification rate significantly increased from 5.61 to 14.63 per 100,000 inhabitants, despite underreporting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cases associated with sepsis increased from 3.89 to 9.58 per 100,000, while notifications of meningitis and case fatality rates remained stable at 1.5 per 100,000 and 11.8%, respectively. Serotyping was not performed in 52% of the notifications. The most common serotypes were 3 (21.6%), 8 (11.1%), and 19A (5.0%), with fluctuations over time. There was a significant decline in serotypes covered by PCV7 and PCV13 and an increase in non-vaccine serotypes. Conclusions: The regional surveillance system allows for an increasingly comprehensive profile of the epidemiological landscape of IPDs in Veneto. However, the surveillance of pneumococcal infections still presents challenges. The currently available data are likely to be underestimated, mainly referring to the most severe cases, and the serotyping necessary to identify the etiological agent is still not often performed.

The properties of the final product obtained by solidification directly result from the thermal variables during solidification. This study aims to analyze the influence of thermal solidification variables on the hardness, microstructure, and phases of the CuAl6Si2 alloy. The material was solidified using unidirectional solidification equipment under non-stationary heat flow conditions, where heat extraction is conducted through a water-cooled graphite base. The thermal solidification variables were extracted using a data acquisition system, and temperature was monitored at six different positions, with cooling rates ranging from 217 to 3 °C/min from the nearest to the farthest position from the heat extraction point. An optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to verify the fusion structure and determine the volumetric fraction of the formed phases. The XRD results showed the presence of β phases, α phases, and possible Fe3Si2 and Fe5Si3 intermetallics with different morphologies and volumetric fractions. Positions with lower cooling rates showed an increased volume fraction of the α phase and possible intermetallics compared to positions with faster cooling. High cooling rates increased the Brinell hardness of the alloy due to the refined and equiaxed β metastable phase, varying from 143 HB to 126 HB for the highest and lowest rates, respectively.

To compare preadolescents’ smile outcomes after two different orthodontic treatments: RME/Schwarz plate (RS) and clear aligners (CAs). A sample of 31 patients (13 M, 18 F, mean age 8.3 ± 1.2 y.m) treated with RS and a sample of 28 patients (12 M, 16 F, mean age 7.9 ± 1.1 y.m) treated with CAS were included. Pre-treatment and post-treatment records were taken before the treatment (T1) and at the end of treatment (T2). Seventeen variables were evaluated. Both therapies were effective in smile width increase (RS = p < 0.02; CAs = p < 0.04) and buccal corridor reduction (RS = p < 0.02; CAs = p < 0.04). The intragroup analysis showed in the RS group an increase of incisor gingival display (p < 0.02), overbite (OVB) (p < 0.04) alongside a reduction of overjet (OVJ) (p < 0.01). Conversely, the CAs group evidenced a reduction in incisor gingival display (p < 0.04) and OVB (p < 0.01) with an increase in C angulation (p < 0.02) and maxillary incisor inclination (p < 0.04). An intergroup comparison evidenced a greater improvement in smile width, smile index and buccal corridor in the RS group with respect to the CAs group (p < 0.02; p < 0.02; p < 0.03). CAs were more effective in the management of gingival display, incisor position, midline correction (incisor gingival display p < 0.01; maxillary incisor position p < 0.04; maxillary dental midline p < 0.02), with a better control of OVJ (p < 0.01) and OVB (p < 0.02). The RS approach resulted in a greater smile width and a reduction in buccal corridor with respect to the CAs. The CAs provided a better management of both gingival display and smile aesthetics.

Background: The aim of the present study was to compare the vertical dimension changes, before and after treatment, in two groups of growing patients, one group treated with clear aligner therapy versus a group treated with Quad-helix and bite-block therapy. Methods: The studied sample was composed of n. 40 patients (20 females and 20 males with a mean age of 8.6 ± 1.8 years), enrolled from the Department of Orthodontics at Policlinico of Rome Tor Vergata. The original sample was randomly divided into two groups: Group IF (Invisalign First) and Group BB (Quad-helix and bite block). Pre- (T0) and post-treatment (T1 after 12 months) lateral cephalograms were collected from all the selected patients. Nine cephalometric parameters, both angular and linear, were measured and recorded for each cephalogram. Results: No statistically significant changes were found between both the IF and BB groups at T0, while statistically significant changes were observed in both groups (BB and IF) between T0 and T1 (after 12 months of active therapy), p < 0.005. Conclusions: Both therapies were able to control the patient’s vertical condition. To date, the use of conventional appliances seems to have slightly better efficacy in controlling the vertical dimension than aligner therapy.

The purpose of this clinical epidemiological investigation was to examine the oral health conditions of homeless people in the city of Rome, Italy. A total of 157 homeless subjects were subjected to a first dental visit, during which anamnestic information was recorded in a digital medical record. A diagnosis of dental disorders was performed by assessing oral hygiene conditions, periodontal health, the presence of caries and/or root residues, and the presence of partial and/or total edentulousness. Caries and missing teeth were evaluated by the DMFT index. The first major criticality was represented by poor or absent oral hygiene. The examined sample showed a major percentage of high DMFT (63.0%); the most common clinical condition was the presence of numerous root residues. Regarding periodontal health, 73.2% of patients had gingivitis, 21.6% periodontitis, while 11 patients had periodontal pathologies with tooth mobility (7%). Finally, 8.9% of patients had one or two missing elements, 22.9% had partial edentulousness, and 8.9% of the sample had total edentulism. This analysis provides an important basis for strengthening health promotion and the importance of accessible and effective care for this population. It will therefore be necessary to continue to adopt a patient-centered approach geared towards addressing the demands that this population faces in maintaining their oral health.

Background: In both the elderly and children, pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of hospitalization. This study aimed to assess the impact of pneumonia-related hospitalizations in the population over 65 years of age in the Veneto Region. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed hospital discharge records for patients aged 65 and older who resided in the Veneto Region and had a diagnosis of pneumonia from 2007 to 2023. The hospitalizations were identified using specific ICD-9-CM codes for pneumonia as a discharge diagnosis. Hospitalization rates, mortality rates, the prevalence of complications and comorbidities, the length of stay, and associated costs were calculated by age and year. Results: From 2007 to 2023, there were 139,201 hospitalizations for pneumonia. Emergency admissions accounted for 92.1% of these cases, and only 2.0% had a specific diagnosis of pneumococcal pneumonia. The median length of stay was 10 days, and the median diagnosis-related group (DRG) tariff per hospitalization was EUR 3307. Excluding the pandemic years, the hospitalization rates remained stable at approximately 850 cases per 100,000 inhabitants before 2019. After 2022, the rates started to increase again. Overall, in the investigated period, the results showed a negative trend (average Annual Percentage Change (AAPC) of −1.931, p < 0.0001). However, when only considering the pre-pandemic years, the trend was stable, while a decline was observed starting in 2020 (AAPC of −19.697, p = 0.001). The overall discharge mortality rates ranged from 13% to 19.3% but were significantly higher in those over 85 years of age (20.6% compared with 6.5% and 12.0% in the 65–74 and 75–84 age groups, respectively). Conclusions: This study highlights the substantial burden of pneumonia in individuals over 65 years of age, showing the impacts on public health.

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of three different intraoral scanners (IOSs) and to evaluate the patients’ experience. Methods: Thirty subjects were scanned with three different IOSs (TRIOS Color®, iTero Element 5D®, and iTero Lumina®): a sample of 90 maxillary casts was collected. The inclusion criteria were permanent dentition, absence of defects during the dental impression, and complete record of the palatal vault. After the scanning procedure, patients were asked to answer a questionnaire (10 answers, scale from 1 to 10) to compare their experiences with iTero Element and iTero Lumina in the scanning procedure. Results: Differences were recorded in the upper central incisor region (f-ratio of 4.186 for Mesiodistal 1.1 and f-ratio of 4.222 for Mesiodistal 2.1, p < 0.05), while intercanine width Upper 13–23 showed the smallest f-ratio (0.226) when compared to the other results, followed by Mesiodistal 1.4 (0.433). Patients reported more comfort, less pain, decreased duration, and a better technology visualization of the impression with iTero Lumina. No significant differences concerning dryness of the mouth and gag reflex were found. Conclusions: The examined IOSs offer comparable accuracy in capturing dental arch dimensions. The interviewed patients expressed an overall preference for digital impressions performed with iTero Lumina, linked to increased comfort, painless practice, and a better technology visualization of the impression.

This article describes a course design that offers an innovative approach to using client-based projects (CBPs) in technical and professional writing. It shows how teachers can incorporate CBPs in hybrid or fully virtual instruction, adapt it for a quarter or semester, and tailor it to meet students' needs. While there are standard writing assignments, such as letters, memos, progress reports, and job application materials, other writing activities assigned depend on the CBP. These projects can involve creating operation manuals, employee handbooks, event planning guides, rewriting gaming instructions, summarizing scientific reports, producing website content, and/or compiling annotated bibliographies. First, CBPs foster students' different talents and abilities and provide different ways to improve communication skills, allowing students to pursue their writing interests across a range of disciplines. Secondly, this course has broad enough goals to support CBP integration. This course was designed around three such broad goals: (1) composing in professionally appropriate modes; (2) understanding professional obligations and ethical behaviors in diverse situations; and (3) working individually and collaboratively. Finally, the learning objectives for each goal are flexible, thus providing both instructor and student with an open framework for pursuing client-based work.

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in the management of frail elderly patients. Indeed, effective management can reduce common pathological situations, such as malnutrition, refeeding syndrome, and aspiration pneumonia, which can increase morbidity and mortality in intensive care unit settings. To optimize this management, it is essential to have knowledge of basic aspects such as timing, route, and composition of nutrition, as well as the prevention and management of the most common adverse events.

In older adults, hyponatremia often represents a medical emergency and is frequently associated with neurological manifestations or symptomatic pictures that the clinician mistakes for other pathologies. This paper deals with some practical considerations in the assessment and management of hyponatremia in older adults in the acute care setting, following the clinical discussion that took place at the Soave (Italy) meeting convened by the scientific committee of the Italian Society of Geriatrics Hospital and Territory.

Phytochelatins (PCs) are small cysteine-rich peptides involved in metal detoxification, not genetically encoded but enzymatically synthesized by phytochelatin synthases (PCSs) starting from glutathione. The constitutive PCS expression even in the absence of metal contamination, the wide phylogenetic distribution and the similarity between PCSs and the papain-type cysteine protease catalytic domain suggest a wide range of functions for PCSs. These proteins, widely studied in land plants, have not been fully analyzed in algae and cyanobacteria, although these organisms are the first to cope with heavy-metal stress in aquatic environments and can be exploited for phytoremediation. To fill this gap, we compared the features of the PCS proteins of different cyanobacterial and algal taxa by phylogenetic linkage. The analyzed sequences fall into two main, already known groups of PCS-like proteins. Contrary to previous assumptions, they are not classed as prokaryotic and eukaryotic sequences, but rather as sequences characterized by the alternative presence of asparagine and aspartic/glutamic acid residues in proximity of the catalytic cysteine. The presence of these enzymes with peculiar features suggests differences in their post-translational regulation related to cell/environmental requirements or different cell functions rather than to differences due to their belonging to different phylogenetic taxa.

A large amount of waste material derives from the horticultural industry. These plant matrices constitute a valuable source of active secondary metabolites with a wide spectrum of potential applications, including both human health and veterinary science. Italy is one of the leading European producers of fennel, and the ‘Finocchio di Isola Capo Rizzuto’ is a protected geographical indication (PGI) product, typical of the Calabria region. In this study, the waste material from this PGI Italian fennel was investigated for the first time as a potential source of bioactive compounds. Both bulbs and aerial parts were extracted with ethanol through maceration, and the phenolic content was assessed, together with the antioxidant properties. Moreover, the nutraceutical value was investigated by evaluating the potential anti-obesity effects. To this end, fennel extracts were studied for their inhibitory effects on pancreatic lipase enzyme, which plays a pivotal role in dietary fat absorption. The aerial part extract demonstrated DPPH radical scavenging (IC50 = 293.13 ± 22.98 µg/mL) and lipid peroxidation inhibitory activities (IC50 = 43.26 ± 1.90 µg/mL), and it was also effective in inhibiting pancreatic lipase (IC50 = 3.51 ± 0.09 mg/mL). Moreover, a significant positive correlation was highlighted between observed biological properties and fennel phenolic constituents. Obtained results show that ‘Finocchio di Isola Capo Rizzuto’ PGI by-products are a good candidate for further investigations as a potential source of antioxidant and anti-obesity agents useful as functional ingredients.

Gastric cancer (GC) is a significant healthcare concern, and the identification of high-risk patients is crucial. Indeed, gastric precancerous conditions present significant diagnostic challenges, particularly early intestinal metaplasia (IM) detection. This study developed a deep learning system to assist in IM detection using image patches from gastric corpus examined using virtual chromoendoscopy in a Western country. Utilizing a retrospective dataset of endoscopic images from Sant’Andrea University Hospital of Rome, collected between January 2020 and December 2023, the system extracted 200 × 200 pixel patches, classifying them with a voting scheme. The specificity and sensitivity on the patch test set were 76% and 72%, respectively. The optimization of a learnable voting scheme on a validation set achieved a specificity of 70% and sensitivity of 100% for entire images. Despite data limitations and the absence of pre-trained models, the system shows promising results for preliminary screening in gastric precancerous condition diagnostics, providing an explainable and robust Artificial Intelligence approach.

Drawing from material collected during two ethnographic investigations conducted in Rome and Lazio, I will focus on the experience of love triggered by relationships with human beings and archaeological remains. I aim to show how these activities give rise to a romantic experience in a context that paradoxically regards love as a fictional and unreliable reality. Utilizing Ernesto De Martino’s conceptual framework, I describe that for the transitional generation born around 1990, caught between precariousness and the triumphant narratives of their predecessors, romantic discourse serves as a shield against existential annihilation by the uncontrollable forces of the universe. It also serves as a means to attain a distinctive identity validated by Italian tradition and heritage. However, while love offers a stable and trustworthy refuge, it can also render individuals powerless to change their life situation and cope with a lack of future prospects.

ABSTRACTThe management of waste from electrical and electronic equipments (WEEEs) is a well-established topic in the extant literature. However, also the automotive sector is becoming a relevant source of WEEE, given the even more relevant presence of electronic components in cars. Due to new European environmental policies, end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) volumes are expected to grow in the next future, together with obsolete car electronics components. Hence, this work wants to assess the potential economic impact derived from car electronics recycling processes adopting the Net Present Value (NPV) as reference indicator. Through a detailed sensitivity and break-even point (BEP) analysis and a comparison of different cases, this work identifies a set of scenarios useful for industrial actors willing to enter the market of car electronics recycling. Results show an NPV varying from 136,570 to 607,621 €/t with a decisive role played by gold recovery.

The artichoke (Cynara cardunculus subsp. scolymus) is an intriguing source of indigestible sugar polymers such as inulin-type fructans. Artichoke represents an important component of a traditional Mediterranean diet and its edible parts are a good source of many high added value compounds such as inulin, a polymer showing relevant prebiotic properties. Compared to the cultivated varieties, the wild cardoon (C. cardunculus var. sylvestris) growing naturally under harsh conditions and well-adapted to many marginal areas, could have a good potential for use in sustainable production in stressed lands. Here, we evaluated by enzymatic assay, the amount of inulin-type fructans both in artichoke and wild cardoon in the two different organs, heads and rhizomes. The expression pattern of the genes encoding the two key enzymes sucrose:sucrose 1-fructosyltransferase and fructan 1-fructosyltransferase, involved in fructan biosynthesis, have been also evaluated. Our results showed that the amount of inulin-type fructans was higher in the wild cardoon than in the artichoke heads, together with a higher expression of the two key genes involved in the fructan biosynthetic pathway. A conspicuous content of inulin-type fructans was found also in the rhizome, supporting the significant role of these compounds in the storage and in protection from cold and/or winter stresses.

Abstract Background To evaluate by means of profilometric analysis and scanning electronic microscope (SEM) the effects on enamel surfaces of oscillating mechanical systems for interproximal enamel reduction (IPR). Fifteen complete (Group 1) oscillating IPR sequence and 15 single metallic strips (Group 2) for active IPR phase of 0.2 mm were selected and tested on 30 freshly extracted teeth by means of tribological tests with alternative dry-sliding motion (Linear Reciprocating Tribometer, C.S.M. Instruments, Peseaux, Switzerland). Enamel surface roughness and waviness measurements were assessed by contact probe surface profiler (TalySurf CLI 2000; Taylor Hobson, Leicester, UK) and a TayMap software for the 3D analysis. Statistical analysis was performed with independent samples t-test. Significance was established at the P

Background: Early mixed dentition represents a critical phase since crowding conditions can occur. The interceptive resolution of dental crowding allows favorable arch and occlusal development. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate dentoalveolar changes of clear aligner treatment planned to manage lower incisor crowding, loss of arch length, and midline deviation in early mixed dentition. Methods: A total of 13 patients (7 females, 6 males, 9.4 ± 1.2 age) treated with clear aligners were selected. Arch dimensions and incisor inclinations were evaluated before (T0) and at the end of interceptive treatment (T1). A paired t-test was chosen to compare T1–T0 changes. The level of significance was set at 5%. Results: The greatest significant increase in mandibular width was observed at the level of the first deciduous molars (+2.44 ± 1.4 mm), followed by the second permanent molars (+2.16 ± 1.4 mm). Lower arch length and arch depth showed a statistically relevant increase (2 ± 0.6 mm and 4.5 ± 1.6 mm, respectively). The mean lower dental midline changes were statistically significant (1.42 ± 0.73 mm). Conclusions: Early treatment with clear aligners, including the combination of transversal arch development, maintenance of leeway space, and guidance of eruption, represents a valid treatment strategy in early mixed dentition to manage arch crowding and occlusion development.

Australian Cattle Dogs (ACD) are medium-sized animals widely used in fieldwork for managing cattle and sheep. There needs to be more information about the conditions these dogs can develop despite being well-characterized animals since the beginning of the 20th century. Hip dysplasia (HD) is a developmental abnormality between the femoral head and the acetabular fossa, which can be debilitating. However, the available literature has no studies on the prevalence of this condition in dogs of this breed. This study aimed to evaluate radiographs of ACD qualitatively and quantitatively. For this purpose, 49 dogs considered healthy without clinical signs of HD were radiographically assessed, and the animals were classified as dysplastic (D) and non-dysplastic (ND). A frequency of 46.9% of dysplastic dogs was observed, with males being more affected. The cortical index (CI) and angle of inclination (AI) could not differentiate D from ND animals; only the Norberg angle (NA) was effective in this differentiation. No correlation was observed between AI, CI, and AN.

Cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a cost-effective and time-saving technique for excluding coronary artery disease. One valuable tool obtained by CCTA is the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score. The use of CAC scoring has shown promise in risk assessment and stratification of cardiovascular disease. CAC scores can be complemented by plaque analysis to assess vulnerable plaque characteristics and further refine risk assessment. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the value of the CAC as a prognostic tool and its implications for patient risk assessment, treatment strategies and outcomes. CAC scoring has demonstrated superior ability in stratifying patients, especially asymptomatic individuals, compared to traditional risk factors and scoring systems. The main evidence suggests that individuals with a CAC score of 0 had a good long-term prognosis, while elevated CAC score is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Finally, the clinical power of CAC scoring and the develop of new models for risk stratification could be enhanced by machine learning algorithms.

BackgroundDistinguishing a disorder of persistent and impairing grief from normative grief allows clinicians to identify this often undetected and disabling condition. As four diagnostic criteria sets for a grief disorder have been proposed, their similarities and differences need to be elucidated.MethodsParticipants were family members bereaved by US military service death (N = 1732). We conducted analyses to assess the accuracy of each criteria set in identifying threshold cases (participants who endorsed baseline Inventory of Complicated Grief ⩾30 and Work and Social Adjustment Scale ⩾20) and excluding those below this threshold. We also calculated agreement among criteria sets by varying numbers of required associated symptoms.ResultsAll four criteria sets accurately excluded participants below our identified clinical threshold (i.e. correctly excluding 86-96% of those subthreshold), but they varied in identification of threshold cases (i.e. correctly identifying 47-82%). When the number of associated symptoms was held constant, criteria sets performed similarly. Accurate case identification was optimized when one or two associated symptoms were required. When employing optimized symptom numbers, pairwise agreements among criteria became correspondingly 'very good' (κ = 0.86-0.96).ConclusionsThe four proposed criteria sets describe a similar condition of persistent and impairing grief, but differ primarily in criteria restrictiveness. Diagnostic guidance for prolonged grief disorder in International Classification of Diseases, 11th Edition (ICD-11) functions well, whereas the criteria put forth in Section III of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) are unnecessarily restrictive.

The death of a loved one is one of life's greatest stressors. Most bereaved individuals experience a period of acute grief that diminishes in intensity as they adapt to the changes brought about by their loss. Over the past four decades, a growing body of research has focused on a form of prolonged grief that is painful and impairing. There is a substantial and growing evidence base that supports the validity and significance of a grief-related disorder, including the clinical value of being able to diagnose it and provide effective targeted treatment. ICD-11 will include a new diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder (PGD). DSM-5 called this condition persistent complex bereavement disorder (PCBD) and included it in Section III, signaling agreement that a diagnosis is warranted while further research is needed to determine the optimal criteria. Given the remaining uncertainties, reading this literature can be confusing. There is inconsistency in naming the condition (including complicated grief as well as PGD and PCBD) and lack of uniformity in identifying it, with respect to the optimal threshold and timeframe for distinguishing it from normal grief. As an introductory commentary for this Depression and Anxiety special edition on this form of grief, the authors discuss the history, commonalities, and key areas of variability in identifying this condition. We review the state of diagnostic criteria for DSM-5 and the current ICD-11 diagnostic guideline, highlighting the clinical relevance of making this diagnosis.

Homogeneous (HM) and functionally graded (FG) TiN thin films were produced by the grid-assisted magnetron sputtering (GAMS) technique. The joint use of ball-cratering micro-abrasive wear test (BCMA) and nanoscratching (NN) test was proposed and carried out to evaluate the wear resistance of TiN films. The results showed an increase of 33.3% wear resistance in the FG TiN thin film, when compared with the HM TiN thin film. This result was justified by the higher resistance to nucleation and propagation of cracks and higher level of adhesion to the substrate by the FG TiN thin film, validated through the NN tests.

Discussing competence in architectural education is the opportunity for Giovanni Durbiano, Nino Saggio, and Ilaria Valente to reflect on the foundations of architectural education in Italy and the Schools where they have been teaching for a few decades, in Torino, Rome, and Milan, respectively. Since their inception, Architectural Schools in Italy have been characterized by the presence of “masters” who mediated via their authorship the effects of design on places, their history, and contexts. Beyond education, this became the Italian way of approaching architecture. The three scholars agree, in different ways, on the value that a similar approach may retain. At the same time, more instances emerge and innovation seems to expand indefinitely the fields in which competencies matter.

Abstract Background The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the mandibular shape differences between a group of success and a group of failure Anterior Open Bite (AOB) malocclusion early orthodontic treatment in growing subjects, in order to identify mandibular features of relapse. Methods Twenty three patients (7 males, 16 females, 9.3 years ±1,5 years) were enrolled from the Department of Orthodontics at the University of Rome Tor Vergata. Inclusion criteria were: white ancestry, overbite