Recent publications
- Stefano Pierini
In questo capitolo viene discusso il problema generale dei flussi a bassi numeri di Reynolds. Viene inoltre considerato un interessante esempio di rilevanza meteo-oceanografica.
Background and study aims
Despite lower patient adherence, the overnight split-dose (SD) intestinal preparation regimen is currently recommended for early morning colonoscopies. Using low-volume preparation, we compared performance of a “day before late” (DBL) regimen, with the whole preparation taken between 8.30 pm and midnight on the day before the endoscopic procedure vs the overnight SD regimen for colonoscopies scheduled between 8 am and 10 am.
Patients and methods
Patients were randomized to the DBL group (n = 162) or SD group (n = 158). The SD group took the second dose 5 hours before colonoscopy. Successful bowel cleansing, defined as an overall Boston Bowel Preparation Score ≥ 3, safety, compliance and tolerability were assessed in the two groups.
Results
The DBL regimen failed to demonstrate non-inferiority compared with the SD regimen in terms of successful bowel cleansing (DBL, 88.2 % vs SD, 98.1%, P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis on colonoscopies before 9 am showed BBPS ≥ 3 rates of 94.6% and 100% in the DBL and SD groups, respectively P = 0.126). The two regimens showed similar compliance and tolerability. Compared with SD patients (25.5%), a lower proportion of DBL patients (13.9%) reported fear of incontinence during the journey to the hospital ( P = 0.01).
Conclusions
Albeit more tolerable, the DBL regimen was less effective than the SD regimen with regard to successful bowel cleansing for colonoscopies between 8 am and 10 am. Subgroup analysis on colonoscopies scheduled before 9 am showed that the two regimens have similar efficacy, suggesting that the DBL regimen may be a valuable alternative to the SD regimen for very early morning colonoscopies.
This paper empirically investigates the relationship between specific dimensions of ESG disclosure and ESG controversies. We analyze an unbalanced panel sample of European banks between 2015 and 2022, implementing the GMM-SYS
version of the Arellano-Bond estimator for dynamic panels. The study results indicate that banks disclosing full information are more likely to face scandals. In addition, EU membership has a positive impact on the ESG controversies. Overall, our research suggests that while transparency is intended to enhance accountability, it may also lead to heightened scrutiny and the exposure of more controversies. Our study, therefore, sheds new light on current knowledge on ESG disclosure and controversies, integrating theoretical, practical, policy, and investor perspectives.
Under low O2, the heart of Carassius auratus (goldfish) shows an enhanced hemodynamics. This is observed in ex vivo cardiac preparations from animals acclimated to both normoxia and short-term (4 days) moderate hypoxia and perfused for 90 min with a hypoxic medium. Under short-term hypoxia, this is associated with a higher ventricular muscularity and an expanded mitochondrial compartment. To date, little is known about the putative influence of hypoxia on the mitochondrial contribution to cardiac energy metabolism. Similarly, it remains unexplored whether the exposure to environmental low O2 affects the cardiac response to preload increases (i.e., the Frank–Starling mechanism). We here observed, on ex vivo isolated and perfused goldfish heart, that 20 days of exposure to moderate water hypoxia are accompanied by a potentiated cardiac performance, analyzed as stroke volume, cardiac output, and stroke work. The sensitivity to preload increases significantly improved after 20 days of hypoxia, while it is similar to normoxia after 4 days of exposure. This suggested a time-dependent response. Mitochondrial O2 consumption initially decreased during short-term hypoxia but returned to normoxia-like levels after 20 days of exposure. Biomolecular analyses of ventricular extracts revealed a time-dependent regulation of key proteins involved in the mitochondrial biogenesis, including PGC1α, NRF1/2, and TFAM, as well as cytochrome c. Additionally, mitochondrial DNA content was notably increased after 20 days of hypoxia. Our data revealed that, when challenged by chronic environmental hypoxia, the goldfish heart improves its pumping behavior under both basal and loading-stimulated conditions. This is accompanied by a mitochondrial remodeling which likely supports adequate energy supply for the working myocardium.
The spectral analysis of CM meteorites can help to constrain the mineralogical composition of their parent body, the C‐type asteroids. The CM2 NWA 12184 was spectrally examined employing seven complementary techniques at different spatial resolutions, including VIS‐to‐MIR reflectance and Raman spectroscopy. Furthermore, the effects of space weathering on asteroids can be investigated by performing laboratory simulations on meteorites samples; thus, the meteorite was processed with He ⁺ ions at 200 keV (maximum fluence of 1.0 × 10 ¹⁷ ions cm ⁻² ) to simulate the solar wind irradiation on C‐type asteroids. We discriminated the mineralogical composition of the NWA 12184 at the millimeter scale and at the micrometer scale, investigating both matrix and chondrules. The ion experiment produced spectral darkening, reddening, shifting of the hydration band, and weakening of the absorption band ascribed to olivine in the VIS‐NIR range, as well as the reduction in the olivine's peak in MIR range, clue of the sample's amorphization. The study identified the native mineralogy of the meteorite, the products of terrestrial weathering, and the aqueous and thermal alteration experienced by the parent body of the sample.
This chapter explores the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within cybersecurity in healthcare. In particular, the integration of Artificial Intelligence AI into traditional security monitoring framework is discussed, introducing AI-based Security Monitoring approaches, combining rule-based SIEM with Machine Learning (ML) techniques, such as Association Rule Mining (ARM) for improved detection and Explainable AI (xAI) for transparency. Adaptive Security Monitoring, addressing dynamic cyber threats, is discussed through Concept Drift Detectors. Finally, the application of AI-based Security Monitoring in healthcare is highlighted. Various use cases are presented, such as the protection of patient data, medical devices, and network. The integration of AI in access control and threat intelligence is examined to ensure confidentiality, prevent unauthorized access, and maintain healthcare system integrity.
The transportation sector is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring the need for innovative fiscal measures to promote decarbonisation. This study evaluates the efficiency of car models based on price, emissions, and technical specifications, while examining the impact of fiscal policies on the adoption of green vehicles in Italy. A two‐stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was conducted utilising a comprehensive database of new cars registered in 2019, categorised by market segments. The results indicate a paradox: the most efficient cars are not necessarily the most environmentally friendly. Furthermore, while green cars are available in smaller segments, their prices often exceed those of comparable conventional cars by 100%. This highlights the need for eco‐bonus adjustments that consider factors beyond CO₂ emissions. Additionally, promoting environmentally friendly cars in higher‐end segments could drive innovation, reduce costs, and advance the automotive industry's transition to sustainability.
Since 2013, the female playwright Li Jing has presented to the public a number of dramatic works which number among the most discussed plays in Chinese theatre circles. This article sketches an approach to her first work, Daxiansheng , which is based, thematically, on the life and work of the modern Chinese writer Lu Xun. By focusing on dramaturgical aspects of this play, such as the material and perspective selected for the story; the interweaving of all kinds of texts; the fragmentation and reassembling of the characters; the design of various contrasting modes and atmospheres; as well as the method of participation of both author and audiences, this article foregrounds the aspects of cosmopolitan theatre displayed both by Li Jing’s work and by contemporary Chinese drama more broadly.
We report for the first time on the effects of electron radiation on the spectral properties of long period grating (LPG) sensors fabricated in various commercially available single-mode silica optical fibers, namely standard SMF28, a B/Ge co-doped fiber, a pure-silica core fiber, and a P-doped fiber. These LPGs were exposed to a 5.5 MeV e-beam with a dose rate of 6 kGy/min and a total accumulated dose of 192 kGy. The impact is discussed in terms of the real-time resonance wavelength shift, depending on the fiber type. To better understand the benefits and limits of utilizing this technology in specific applications, we also investigated the long-term recovery of the devices following exposure, with intermediate evaluations at 21 hours, 8 days, 6 months, and 12 months after irradiation is finished. The main findings are that LPG in B/Ge co-doped fiber is responding up to 192 kGy, with a resonance wavelength shift exceeding 35 nm and no evidence of saturation. Additionally, we demonstrated its long-term data storage potential, showing a 45% recovery toward initial values after post-irradiation stabilization. On the contrary, pure-silica core fiber maintains radiation-hardening properties against electrons. This study is the first to test the limitations of LPGs fabricated in both sensitive and radiation-hardened optical fibers, subjected to high dose rates, with a focus on both the temporary and permanent electron induced effects.
Anthropic activities have significantly elevated cadmium levels, making it a significant stressor in aquatic ecosystems. Present in high concentrations across water bodies, cadmium is known to bioaccumulate and biomagnify throughout the food chain. While the toxic effects of cadmium on the organs and tissues of aquatic species are well-documented, little is known about its impact on sensory systems crucial for survival. Consequently, this study investigated the impact of short-term exposure (96 h) to 25 µM cadmium chloride on the olfactory system of adult zebrafish. The research aimed to assess structural and functional changes in the zebrafish’s olfactory lamellae, providing a deeper understanding of how cadmium affects the sense of smell in this aquatic species. After exposure, cyto-anatomical alterations in the lamellae were analysed using light microscopy and immunocytochemistry. They revealed severe lamellar edema, epithelial thickening, and an increased number of apoptotic and crypt cells. Rodlet and goblet cells also increased by 3.5- and 2.5-fold, respectively, compared to control lamellae, and collagen density in the lamina propria increased 1.7-fold. Cadmium upregulated metallothioneins and increased the number of PCNA-positive cells. The olfactory function was assessed through a behavioural odour recognition test, followed by a recovery phase in which zebrafish exposed to cadmium were placed in clean water for six days. The exposed fish performed poorly, failing to reach food in five consecutive trials. However, lamellar damage was reduced after the recovery period, and their performance improved, becoming comparable to the control group. These results suggest that cadmium disrupts the sense of smell, and that recovery is possible after short-term exposure. This evidence sheds light on aspects of animal survival that are often overlooked when assessing environmental pollution.
In the aftermath of the Great Recession, European economies have recognised the relevance of industrial sector competitiveness and have taken a wide set of actions to increase it. In this view, the European Commission has introduced a wide set of instruments to relaunch industrial sector competitiveness. Among others, incentive zones present several features which might allow them to become booster of regional competitiveness, by generating spillover effects able to shape the environment where industrial firms operate. Based on these premises, the research aims at assessing if the establishment of incentive zones acts as a booster of regional industrial competitiveness and which contextual factors allow to enhance it. First, we construct a novel metric of regional industrial competitiveness and, subsequently, by using econometric techniques, we evaluate the effectiveness of different typologies of incentive zones in promoting regional industrial competitiveness. The diversification among the different typologies of zones allows to evaluate the effectiveness of each. These results, interpreted together with the contextual factors of the regions in which they are localised, allow to provide useful suggestions to policymakers willing to implement regional industrial policies, by informing them on both the strengths and weakness of these instruments realised in specific regions.
We present new results regarding the stability properties of a stochastic nonlinear quadratic system (NLQS). The paper extends to the stochastic context a previous work concerning the domain of attraction of the zero equilibrium point of a NLQ. In this context, we use the concept of ()—stability in probability and we achieve sufficient stability condition by exploiting the usual approach based on quadratic Lyapunov. This approach allows us to solve also the stabilization problem obtaining a procedure to design a state feedback control law which guarantees a region of attraction with a certain level of risk. The proposed designed procedure requires the solution of an optimization problem in the form of linear matrix inequalities, which allows us to estimate an upper bound for the quadratic performance functional. Two examples based on biological phenomena illustrate the effectiveness of the developed approach.
This paper investigates the connection between economic freedom and poverty, with a particular attention devoted to the size of government. We focus on 12 eurozone countries in the period between 2000 and 2019. The common framework of these countries is the adherence to a policy model relying on competition, flexibility, and a non-active role of government intervention in the belief that through economic freedom, the common currency is able to achieve prosperity and growth. We connect monetary poverty with liberalization indexes released by the Fraser institute through a long-run dynamic cointegration technique. The general results tell us that the higher the freedom index the higher the number of people living below the median income. When considering the components of the economic freedom index related to the size of government, we find that the higher the sub-indexes—meaning lower public investments, consumption and top-marginal tax rates—the higher the percentage of people living below the poverty threshold. The results—verified through several robustness checks related to the alternative indicator and the sample—support the conclusion that wider liberalizations worsened the general living conditions and that government intervention is an important tool to redistribute resources and reduce the income gap among individuals.
This paper introduces a supervisory controller designed for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) to minimize total energy consumption and tailpipe NOx emissions while adhering to Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) constraints. The case study exploits historical driving cycle data from an urban bus route in Zurich to analyze trip correlations, where a ZEZ restriction was added to assess the vehicle performance under such conditions. A PHEV bus model was built, integrating the powertrain and After-Treatment System (ATS), where an electric heater is included to mitigate NOx emissions. The supervisory controller is tasked with determining the optimal power split and the electric heater power to ensure adherence to feasible operating conditions along the route. Historical driving cycle data analysis demonstrates that the speed profiles along the selected route exhibit similarities. This observation is leveraged by a Dynamic Programming (DP) optimization, where an arbitrary bus trip is employed to generate a cost-to-go matrix. Then, the resulting cos-to-go matrix was indexed by the position in the route and is used on the real-time controller by applying the one-step look-ahead roll-out algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate the controller effectiveness in addressing ZEZ restrictions, presenting a trade-off between energy consumption and tailpipe NOx emissions. A benchmark was carried out, comparing the results obtained with the DP solution as the baseline, assuming perfect knowledge of driving cycle disturbances, revealing a 7% increase in tailpipe NOx emissions and a 1.3% increase in fuel consumption compared to the theoretical minimum and fulfilling the ZEZ restrictions in all the cases.
We prove some regularity results for a priori bounded local minimizers of non-autonomous integral functionals of the form under the constraint a.e. in , where is a fixed obstacle function. Assuming that the coefficients of the partial map satisfy a suitable Sobolev regularity, we are able to obtain higher differentiability and Lipschitz continuity results for the local minimizers.
The precious red coral Corallium rubrum (Linnaeus, 1758) is a charismatic species living in the Mediterranean Sea and its Atlanticsurroundings, known for its slow growth and long lifespan. The development of a reliable method for assessing colony age hasenabled the comparison of average annual growth rates, minimising age-related variability. This study aimed to investigate thepotential effect of depth on colony growth by analysing a set of morphometric parameters - basal diameter, height, weight, totalbranch length (TBL), and number of apexes - normalised per year. The analysis was conducted on 59 specimens collected fromshallow (<60 m) and mesophotic (>60 m) banks along the Italian coast, which are subject to diverse environmental conditions.The colonies’ estimated average age was approximately 30 years, regardless of depth. Notably, the annual growth rate in weightwas significantly higher in colonies from the deeper depth range, while growth rates for the other morphometric parametersshowed no variation with depth.
(PDF) Are colony growth rates depth-dependent in the Mediterranean red coral?. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387784360_Are_colony_growth_rates_depth-dependent_in_the_Mediterranean_red_coral [accessed Jan 10 2025].
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