Marche Polytechnic University

A submarine, hybrid cable for the simultaneous transfer of green electricity and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) in a 30 km-long pipeline from an offshore renewable power plant, in the Adriatic Sea is presented here. The superconducting (SC) cable is designed with MgB2 strands to carry the transport current with a significant margin. The SC strands are twisted around a bundle of normal conducting strands with the function of protecting against overcurrents and ensuring at the same time flexibility of the cable. The SC cable, covered by multiple layers of cold dielectric, is inserted into a corrugated pipe, constituting the inner part of a cryostat where LH2 flows. LH2 has the dual function of cryogen and energy carrier. The outer part of the cryostat is designed to limit the heat load to less than 2 W/m, and to withstand the pressure in operation due to the submarine installation at a maximum depth of ∼ 50 m.

Crystals of the model protein lysozyme were grown and soaked with the potential drug VIVO(acetylacetonato)2 at 37°C. X‐ray diffraction and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) data collected at this temperature reveal that mixed‐valence cage‐like polyoxidovanadate clusters are formed and covalently bind protein residue side chains at physiological temperature.

Background and study aims Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard treatment for patients with cholecystitis or gallbladder stones after common bile duct (CBD) clearance. According to the sequential strategy, cholecystectomy should be performed within 2 weeks after CDB clearance with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). However, in real-life experience, the average waiting time is 60 to 180 days. We aimed to evaluate the clinical rationale for prophylactic stent placement in CBD to prevent recurrent biliary events. Patients and methods This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed following a protocol designed a priori (PROSPERO: CRD42024564804; July 13, 2024). All published studies involving patients who had undergone ERCP for CBDs and who were awaiting cholecystectomy were included. Results At the end of the revision process, four full texts including 755 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The odds ratio (OR) for symptom recurrence in patients awaiting cholecystectomy was 0.74 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30-1.79; I ² 67%). The pooled OR for adverse event occurrence was 0.74 (95% CI 0.45-1.24) in the stent group. The post-ERCP pancreatitis and cholangitis risk were 0.76 (95% CI 0.25-2.34) and 0.92 (95% CI 0.31-2.67), respectively. Conclusions This meta-analysis showed no benefit for stent insertion after bile duct clearance in patients scheduled for delayed cholecystectomy. Further randomized controlled trials with bigger cohorts are needed to assess any benefit for this procedure, which in the meantime, cannot be recommended.

Despite recent significant advances in the controlled assembly of protocell units into complex 3D architectures, the development of prototissues capable of mimicking the sophisticated energy transduction processes fundamental to living tissues remains a critical unmet challenge in bottom‐up synthetic biology. Here a synthetic approach is described to start addressing this challenge and report the bottom‐up chemical construction of a photonastic prototissue endowed with photo‐mechano‐chemical transduction capabilities. For this, novel protocells enclosing photothermal transducing proto‐organelles based on gold nanoparticles and a thermoresponsive polymeric proto‐cortex are developed. These advanced protocell units are assembled into prototissues capable of light‐induced reversible contractions and complex motions, which can be exploited to reversibly switch off a coordinated internalized enzyme metabolism by blocking the access of small substrate molecules. Overall, the work provides a synthetic pathway to constructing prototissues with sophisticated energy transduction mechanisms, enabling the rational design of emergent behaviors in synthetic materials and addressing critical challenges in bottom‐up synthetic biology and bioinspired materials engineering.

Nanoplastics are persistent pollutants that may act as vectors of various inorganic and organic pollutants. Due to their small size and complex nature, their identification in environmental samples is still extremely difficult. The goal of this work is to investigate the ability of an electrolyte‐gated carbon nanotube field‐effect transistor (EG‐CNTFET) based sensor to detect polystyrene nanoplastics (PS NPs) in a more realistic scenario in the presence of a typical environmental pollutant such as mercury. To do so, PS NPs/Hg²⁺ complexes are formed through the sorption of mercury ions (Hg²⁺ on the surface of carboxylated PS NPs, and the formation of Hg‐O bonds, with a sorption efficiency of up to 7.9% w wNP⁻¹. The EG‐CNTFET sensor effectively detects these complexes in water, with an increase in normalized current of up to 27.4% (±12.7) after 5 min of measurement and stable values reached after 25 min. As proved, the reached values do not differ significantly from the pure PS NPs samples (29.7% (±6.9)). Therefore, this study demonstrates that the sensitivity of the developed EG‐CNTFET is not affected by the NP surface modifications induced by Hg²⁺ binding, opening the possibility for its use for the real‐time identification of NPs in complex environmental samples.

Purpose We developed Machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict ureteroscopy (URS) outcomes, offering insights into diagnosis and treatment planning, personalised care and improved clinical decision-making. Methods FLEXOR is a large international multicentric database including 6669 patients treated with URS for urolithiasis from 2015 to 2023. Preoperative and postoperative(PO) correlations were investigated through 15 ML-trained algorithms. Outcomes included stone free status (SFS, at 3-month imaging follow up), intraoperative (PCS bleeding, ureteric/PCS injury, need for postoperative drainage) and PO complications (fever, sepsis, need for reintervention). ML was applied for the prediction, correlation and logistic regression analysis. Explainable AI emphasizes key features and their contributions to the output. Results Extra Tree Classifier achieved the best accuracy (81%) in predicting SFS. PCS bleed was negatively linked with ‘positive urine culture‘(-0.08), ‘tamsulosin‘(-0.08), ‘stone location‘(-0.10), ‘fibre optic scope‘(-0.19), ‘Moses Fibre‘(-0.09), and ‘TFL‘(-0.09), and positively with ‘elevated creatine‘(0.25), ‘fever‘(0.11), and ‘stone diameter‘(0.21). ‘PCS injury’ and ‘ureteric injury’ both showed moderate correlation with ‘elevated creatinine‘(0.11), ‘fever‘(0.10), and ‘lower pole stone‘(0.09). ‘Tamsulosin‘(0.23) use, presence of ‘multiple‘(0.25) or ‘lower pole‘(0.25) stones, ‘reusable scope‘(0.17) and ‘Moses Fibre’(0.2546) increased the risk for PO stent, while ‘digital scope’(-0.13) or ‘TFL‘(-0.29) reduced it. ‘Preoperative fever‘(0.10), ‘positive urine culture‘(0.16), and ‘stone diameter‘(0.10) may play a role in ‘PO fever’ and ‘sepsis’. SFS was mainly influenced by ‘age‘(0.12), ‘preoperative fever‘(0.09), ‘multiple stones‘(0.15), ‘stone diameter‘(0.17), ‘Moses Fibre“(0.15) and ‘TFL‘(-0.28). Conclusion ML is valuable tool for accurately predicting outcomes by analysing pre-existing datasets. Our model demonstrated strong performance in outcomes and risks prediction, laying the groundwork for development of accessible predictive models.

Non-invasive characterization of electrochemical properties is crucial for the preservation of cultural artifacts as it allows detailed analysis while avoiding mechanical damage. This study presents a portable electrochemical probe developed for localized corrosion measurements on metal surfaces, ensuring non-invasive interaction through a suspended drop of electrolyte solution. The probe was validated on reference samples and applied to bronze statues from San Casciano dei Bagni, Italy. The results show agreement with data from conventional three-electrode cells and confirm the effectiveness of the probe in detecting active corrosion sites. Furthermore, the application of the probe before and after a conservation treatment showed differences in the response of the different corrosion products. This work underlines the potential of the probe for in situ electrochemical assessments and provides conservators with a practical tool to evaluate and guide conservation measures.

Naphthoxy‐imine pyridine zinc and magnesium complexes were synthesized and fully characterized by NMR. In the presence of an alcohol as initiator, both complexes promoted the ring‐opening polymerization of L‐lactide (L‐LA), ε‐caprolactone (ε‐CL), β‐butyrolactone (β‐BL), trimethylene carbonate (TMC) and 1‐methyl trimethylene carbonate (Me‐TMC), which was purposely synthesized from CO2 and the appropriate diol. The zinc complex exhibited notably high activity, particularly in the polymerization of lactide and trimethylene carbonate, and was subsequently employed in the synthesis of polytrimethylene carbonate‐based diblock and random copolymers with both ε‐caprolactone and L‐lactide. Furthermore, the zinc complex demonstrated its ability to close the life cycle of the synthesized materials by successfully depolymerizing both PTMC and its copolymers.

Lupin crops provide nutritious seeds as an excellent source of dietary protein. However, extensive genomic resources are needed for crop improvement, focusing on key traits such as nutritional value and climate resiliency, to ensure global food security based on sustainable and healthy diets for all. Such resources can be derived either from related lupin species or crop wild relatives, which represent a large and untapped source of genetic variation for crop improvement. Here, we report genome assemblies of the cross-compatible species Lupinus cosentinii (Mediterranean) and its pan-Saharan wild relative L. digitatus, which are well adapted to drought-prone environments and partially domesticated. We show that both species are tetraploids, and their repetitive DNA content differs considerably from that of the main lupin crops L. angustifolius and L. albus. We present the complex evolutionary process within the rough-seeded lupins as a species-based model involving polyploidization and rediploidization. Our data also provide the foundation for a systematic analysis of genomic diversity among lupin species to promote their exploitation for crop improvement and sustainable agriculture.

Background Vital signs in triage are essential for effective risk stratification in the emergency department (ED). They are also increasingly used to calculate an early warning score at the time of presentation. However, obtaining a blood pressure is more time-consuming than other vital signs, potentially delaying care for subsequent patients. Additionally, studies indicate that this measure is not always collected. This study aimed to evaluate whether removing systolic blood pressure (SBP) from the National Early Warning Score (NEWS) affects the prediction of mortality. Methods This prospective observational single-centre study included all patients presenting to triage of the General Hospital of Merano, Italy, from 1 June 2022 to 30 June 2023. Vital signs were recorded for each patient. NEWS and NEWS without SBP (NEWS-SBP) were computed. The ability of the two versions of the score to predict mortality at 48 hours, 7 days and 30 days was evaluated using the Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curves (AUROC). Results Data were recorded from 26 249 patients. For predicting 7-day and 30-day mortality, NEWS had a significantly higher AUROC than NEWS-SBP (7-day mortality: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.81 to 0.87 vs 0.83, 95% CI: 0.80 to 0.86; p=0.012, and 30-day mortality: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.77 to 0.81 vs 0.77, 95% CI: 0.75 to 0.79; p<0.001). No significant difference was found in the AUROC for the prediction of 48-hour mortality (NEWS: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85 to 0.92 vs NEWS-SBP 0.88, 95% CI: 0.85 to 0.91; p=0.139). Conclusion The NEWS-SBP was equivalent to the complete score for prediction of 48-hour mortality, but was less accurate in predicting medium and long-term mortality among ED patients. Further research is needed to clarify potential advantages in reducing triage time and whether these benefits outweigh the loss of prognostic accuracy.

‘Pegasus’ volans is a highly unusual fossil teleost fish from the celebrated Eocene Bolca Lagerstatte. The fossil, known on the basis of two specimens, has been historically assigned to seamoths (Pegasidae), then to oarfishes and relatives (Lampriformes). We describe its enigmatic skeletal anatomy in detail and provide a new genus name: †Dibango. †Dibango volans is an extremely elongate and slender animal, with long anal and dorsal fins and a very well-developed first dorsal-fin ray reminiscent of the vexillum of some modern teleost larvae. Most striking is its extreme ventral projection of the pelvic bone (basipterygium), associated with an element of the pectoral girdle (a long process of the coracoid) and developed pelvic-fin rays. The strongly reduced abdominal region suggests that †D. volans had an external gut, once again reminiscent of those of certain larval teleosts. The unique character state combination of †D. volans makes it impossible to assign it to a specific subclade within perch-like spiny-rayed fishes (Percomorpha). Nevertheless, it offers a valuable perspective on the diversity of morphologies and ecological niches occupied by teleost fishes of the early Eocene Bolca fauna

The European Union’s ambitious “Farm to Fork” strategy, a cornerstone of the Green Deal, aims to transform the European agricultural sector into a more sustainable model. However, the effectiveness of this strategy in addressing the pressing sustainability challenges of the Ag-Food industry remains under scrutiny. This contribution seeks to critically analyse the Farm to Fork strategy and identify areas where further improvement is needed. A systematic literature review of recent scientific contributions on European policies aimed at Ag-Food industries from a cross-disciplinary, holistic, and systemic perspective, was conducted. The study identified best practices and gaps across various areas of the Ag-Food industry, providing insights into the systemic implications of the Farm to Fork strategy. Key findings from the analysis revealed that while the Farm to Fork strategy sets a positive direction for sustainable agriculture, it faces limitations in addressing critical aspects. The assessments point towards a quantitative reduction in production throughout the European Union, increased dependence on imports and a reduction in exports, as well as a reduction in consumer purchasing power. The legislator appear to perceive the strategy as having a net positive impact overall. Yet, the literature seems to show the opposite, highlighting that this may not hold true without significant technological progress such as the adoption of best practices and measures to assist those negatively impacted by the transition.

Objective In this study we tested whether some intrapsychic behaviors of structure of personality can be associated with the onset of Type 2 diabetes (T2-DM). Methods T2-DM Patients (n. 257) and Healthy subjects (n = 258). Test: Social schedule (demographic variables); SASB–Form- Questionnaire A (describing intrapsychic behaviors of personality structure - 8 Clusters-Cl -). Results From the logistic model emerged that in subjects with profile 2 “Low Affiliation and Autonomy” compared to profile 2 “Low Autonomy and Self-Care” considering age, education and living conditions effects, the association to the onset of diabetes increases (OR: 1.668). Subjects with profile 2 “Low Affiliation and Autonomy” show low assertiveness and autonomy (SASB-Cl 1); have a medium-low ability to accept and support themselves (medium-low-SASB-Cl 3,4); do not improve their leisure activities or interpersonal relationships because they are too scheduled by things to do (SASB-Cl 4, Cl5); have self-critical behavior (SASB-Cl 6 medium) and self-neglectful behavior - ignore illnesses at an emotional and physical level (Cl8). They occasionally incur in self-destructive behaviors (Cl 7). They may experience self-exhaustion and mild to moderate depression. These are the intrapsychic behaviors associated with onset of diabetes. Another variable associated with the onset of diabetes is high educational level. Conclusions These results suggest that certain personality traits have a great association with T2-DM onset. Furthermore the analysis of intrapsychic modalities in association with the onset of diabetes could constitute a further screening aimed at primary prevention.

In recent years, tracking systems have transformed the understanding of spatiotemporal dynamic processes. However, these systems often face challenges due to missing data caused by technical limitations or intentional manipulation, leading to classification bias and hidden suspicious activities. In response, we propose a deep learning algorithm based on sequential Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (BiLSTM) to impute missing trajectories in spatiotemporal datasets. Our approach employs both backward and forward BiLSTMs resulting in BF-BiLSTM architecture to model temporal dependencies before and after the missing trajectories. We evaluated the algorithm on a realistic marine and aerial dataset, considering missing data trajectories on vessels and flights with missing data rates ranging from 5% to 30%. The model improves performance in terms of MAE (0.011°), MSE (0.056%), MAPE (0.054%) and ADE (0.017°) when compared to state-of-the-art approaches. By effectively addressing challenges in spatiotemporal datasets and improving existing benchmarks, our algorithm provides a robust solution for enhancing trajectory imputation in the context of monitoring systems potentially across diverse application domains.

Self-assembly via non-covalent interactions is key to constructing complex architectures with advanced functionalities. A noncovalent synthetic chemistry approach, akin to organic chemistry, allows stepwise construction with enhanced control. Here, we explore this by coupling Pt(II) complex self-assembly with a redox reaction. Oxidation to Pt(IV) creates a non-emissive monomer that, upon reduction to Pt(II), forms luminescent gels with unique kinetic and thermodynamic pathways. UV irradiation induces Pt(IV) reduction, generating supramolecular fibers with Pt∙∙∙Pt interactions, enhancing photophysical properties and enabling visible light absorption up to 550 nm. This allows photoselective growth, where fibers convert surrounding Pt(IV) to Pt(II), promoting growth over nucleation, as observed via real-time fluorescence microscopy.

This article explores the dynamics of digital platforms for food delivery in Latin America, with a focus on empirical research conducted in Mexico City. The impact of gig and platform labour reveals significant divergences between the Global North and South, particularly in how these platforms disrupt social labour relations and subjective working conditions, suggesting to analyse in the frame of ‘differential uberisation’ of labour. Through interviews, the study examines the structural heterogeneity of labour realities in Latin America, while also highlighting key contributions from critical Latin American thought on labour. Furthermore, it discusses how conditions typical of peripheral economies, such as the super-exploitation of labour, are increasingly prevalent within the platform economy. These conditions are globalised through the worldwide operation of digital platforms. This article seeks to critically analyse this phenomenon from a Latin American perspective, drawing on long-term ethnographic research.

Chalcogenone donors represent a fundamental chemical class of compounds in the treatment of hyperthyroidism; particularly, imidazoline‐based systems are associated with the strongest affinity for I2. Therefore, the reactivity of these types of donors with dihalogens may be insightful to understand the mechanism of action of popular drugs, such as methimazole (1‐methyl‐4‐imidazoline‐2‐thione, MMI). In this work, the reactivity of 1,3‐dimethyl‐4‐imidazoline‐2‐chalcogenone (S, Se, Te) with dihalogens X2 (X = Cl, Br, I) is evaluated for any combination through a systematic computational study. Three different products are found: a linear charge transfer (CT) “spoke” adduct, a “T‐shaped” intermediate (TI), and a “T‐shaped” hypercoordinate species (TY). The halogen and chalcogen effects are discussed separately as for the solvation effects. Furthermore, only the TY species formed from the reaction between 1,3‐dimethyl‐4‐imidazoline‐2‐thione and I2 resulted to be disfavored with respect to the corresponding CT adduct; therefore, this peculiarity is rationalized in the framework of activation strain analysis. Lastly, a possible alternative mechanism involving the formation of a cationic intermediate species is considered.

Premise Asia's wet tropical forests face a severe biodiversity crisis, but few fossils record their evolutionary history. We recently discovered in situ cuticles on fossil leaves, attributed to the giant rainforest tree Dryobalanops of the iconic Dipterocarpaceae family, from the Plio‐Pleistocene of Brunei Darussalam (northern Borneo). Studying these specimens allowed us to validate the generic identification and delineate affinities to living dipterocarp species. Methods We compared the leaf cuticles and architecture of these fossil leaves with the seven living Dryobalanops species. Results The cuticular features shared between the fossils and extant Dryobalanops , including the presence of giant stomata on veins, confirm their generic placement. The leaf characters are identical to those of D. rappa , an IUCN red‐listed Endangered, northern Borneo endemic. The D. rappa monodominance at the fossil site, along with Dipterocarpus spp. leaf fossils, indicates a dipterocarp‐dominated forest near the mangrove‐swamp depocenter, most likely in an adjacent peatland. Conclusions The Dryobalanops rappa fossils are the first fossil evidence of a living endangered tropical tree species and show how analysis of in situ cuticles can help illuminate the poorly known floristic history of the Asian tropics. This discovery highlights new potential for fossils to inform heritage values and paleoconservation in Southeast Asia.