Search Results (455)

This paper reports a statistical analysis of a database archiving information on the strengths of the materials in existing Italian bridges having pre- and post-tensioned concrete beams. Data were collected in anonymous form by analyzing a stock of about 170 bridges built between 1960 and 2000 and located in several Italian regions. To date, the database refers to steel reinforcing bars, concrete, and prestressing steel, whose strengths were gathered from design nominal values, acceptance certificates, and in situ test results, all derived by consulting the available documents for each examined bridge. At first, this paper describes how the available data were collected. Then, the results of a statistical analysis are presented and commented on. Moreover, goodness-of-fit tests are carried out to verify the assumption validity of a normal distribution for steel reinforcing bars and prestressing steel, and a log-normal distribution for concrete. The database represents a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners for the assessment of existing bridges. It may be applied for the use of prior knowledge within a framework where Bayesian methods are included for reducing uncertainties. The database provides essential information on the strengths of the materials to be used for a simulated design and/or for verification in the case of limited knowledge. Goodness-of-fit tests make the collected information very useful, even if probabilistic methods are applied. Full article

Background/Objectives: Early experiences can significantly influence brain development, particularly when they occur during specific time windows known as sensitive or critical periods. Therefore, the early promotion of neurodevelopmental functions is crucial in children at risk for neurodevelopmental disabilities, such as those with cerebral palsy. This article introduces AMIRA (A Multidimensional and Integrated Rehabilitation Approach), a rehabilitative framework designed for infants at risk of neurodevelopmental disabilities. Methods: AMIRA is intended to guide clinical–rehabilitation reasoning rather than prescribe a rigid sequence of predetermined activities for the child. The theoretical foundation and structure of AMIRA are presented by formalizing its criteria, objectives, tools, and intervention procedures. The framework comprises four distinct sections, each supported by adaptive strategies to facilitate access to materials and to promote play-based interactions among the child, their environment, and communication partners. Particular attention is given to optimizing both micro- and macro-environments for children with, or at risk of, co-occurring visual impairment. Each rehabilitative section includes three progressive phases: an initial observation phase, a facilitation phase to support the child’s engagement, and an active experimentation phase that gradually introduces more challenging tasks. Results: The intervention pathways in AMIRA are organized according to six core developmental domains: behavioral–emotional self-regulation, visual function, postural–motor skills, praxis, interaction and communication, and cognitive function. These are outlined in structured charts that serve as flexible guidelines rather than prescriptive protocols. Each chart presents activities of increasing complexity aligned with typical developmental milestones up to 24 months of age. For each specific ability, the corresponding habilitation goals, contextual recommendations (including environmental setup, objects, and tools), and suggested activities are provided. Conclusions: This study presents a detailed intervention approach, offering both a practical framework and a structured set of activities for use in rehabilitative settings. Further studies will explore the efficacy of the proposed standardized approach. Full article

We report the first case of pleural mesothelioma (PM) occurring in a child affected by NF2-related schwannomatosis (NF2-SWN) and without any history of environmental exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma is a rare secondary tumor in brain cancer patients and the association with NF2-SWN has been described only in a few anecdotal cases and never in the pediatric field. NF2-SWN is an autosomal dominant disease caused by inactivating germline mutations of the NF2 tumor suppressor gene, one of the most common mutations associated with human primary mesothelioma too. By MLPA assay, array-CGH analysis, and NGS on blood and tumor DNA, we determined the mutation profile of this rare NF2-driven PM and we identified several atypical chromosomal aberrations in tumor cells, suggesting a different genomic signature between pediatric and adult mesothelioma. Full article

Background/Objectives: Aseptic loosening is a major challenge in hip and knee arthroplasty. While radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is the gold standard for detecting early migration, it is static, costly, and requires metal beads. Provocation CT-based analysis studies implants under physiological stresses and offers a marker-free alternative with comparable accuracy. This systematic review evaluates its effectiveness, cost, and role in orthopedic imaging. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Three databases were searched, with no date restrictions, using keywords related to the research area. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB-1 tool. Results: The initial search identified 42 studies, with 6 ultimately included in the review. These studies involved 198 patients with an average age of 65.0 years. Provocation CT demonstrated higher sensitivity and specificity than standard radiographs, particularly in cases with inconclusive X-rays. Additionally, the radiation dose for CT scans varied across studies, with effective doses ranging from 0.2 mSv to 4.5 mSv per scan. Compared to X-ray, CT-based methods showed comparable or superior performance in motion detection, though direct clinical comparisons with RSA remain lacking. Conclusions: Provocation CT-based analysis is a valuable diagnostic tool for early detection of implant loosening, offering a potentially feasible, accurate, and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. However, standardized protocols, broader economic evaluations, and prospective multicenter trials are needed to confirm its routine clinical applicability. Full article

This study aimed to compare the contents of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) in healthy liver tissue from deceased liver donors (DGs), in cirrhotic tissue from patients without (CIR) or with hepatocellular carcinoma (CIR-HCC) and in HCC tissue from the latter patients. Liver tissue samples were obtained from cirrhotic liver transplant recipients, with (n = 14) and without HCC (n = 14), and from DGs (n = 18). In patients with HCC, both cirrhotic and tumor tissue was collected. The tissue metal content was measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. The Cu content of DG tissue was significantly lower than that of CIR-HCC and HCC tissue but not CIR tissue. The tissue Zn and Mg contents were significantly higher in DG tissue than in CIR, CIR-HCC, and HCC tissues. No difference was observed for Fe. The Cu/Zn ratio progressively increased in DG, CIR, CIR-HCC, and HCC tissues. The increased Cu content in cirrhotic and tumor tissue of HCC patients and the fact that the latter had the highest value for the Cu/Zn ratio indirectly suggest the potential role of these metals in hepatocarcinogenesis. These findings support a pathophysiological basis for further experimental studies to investigate the potential therapeutic implications of pharmacological agents targeting metal homeostasis in this malignancy. Full article

Severe drought events have raised concerns regarding their effects on the phenological cycles of forest species. This study evaluates the correspondence between in situ phenophases and those detected by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in tree species coexisting within a mixed forest, with particular attention to their relationship with climatic variables. Based on 12 consecutive monthly field observations, we compared phenological developments with UAV-derived normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values, which were then correlated with environmental variables. The analysis revealed a convergence of inflection points and seasonal phenological shifts, likely driven by climatic factors, although distinct patterns emerged between coniferous and broadleaf species. Photoperiod (PP), vapor pressure deficit (VPD), maximum temperature (TMAX), and, to a lesser extent, precipitation (P) were the primary environmental variables influencing NDVI results, used here as a proxy for phenology. Photothermal conditions revealed seasonal asynchrony in NDVI responses between coniferous and broadleaf species, exerting a positive influence on conifers during summer, while having a negative impact on broadleaf species in spring. Validation of in situ observations with UAV-derived data demonstrated a biological correlation between canopy dynamics and NDVI values, supporting its use as a proxy for detecting phenophases at the level of individual trees. Full article

Objective: Endovascular repair of visceral artery aneurysms (VAAs) and visceral artery pseudoaneurysms (VAPAs) using covered stent grafts is a novel technique that preserves efferent vessel patency and prevents end-organ ischemia; however, long-term results are lacking in the literature. This study aims to evaluate ultra-long-term outcomes (>5 years) using CT angiography (CTA) and technical aspects of covered stents in treating VAAs and VAPAs. Methods: A single-center retrospective study was conducted on patients with VAAs and VAPAs treated with stent grafts between 2004 and 2023. The study included an ultra-long-term follow-up using CTA. Stent graft patency, aneurysm characteristics, technical success, 30-day and long-term follow-up clinical success, and mortality were assessed. Results: Among 23 patients presenting with VAAs and VAPAs treated exclusively with covered stents implantation, 7 (mean age: 68 years, SD 14), including 5 with VAAs and 2 with VAPAs, met the inclusion criteria for the study. Six of the seven patients underwent elective procedures with no significant periprocedural complications. Both technical and 30-day clinical success rates were 100%. The mean follow-up period was 10 years (125 months SD 53). At the 5-year follow-up, 71% of stent grafts remained patent. No patient experienced aneurysm sac revascularization or rupture. Stent obstruction did not affect survival. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that endovascular covered stenting is a durable and effective treatment for VAAs and VAPAs, even in the ultra-long term, with a patency rate of 71% at a mean CTA follow-up of 125 months, the longest reported to date and no cases of sac revascularization. Stent thrombosis was significantly associated with VAPAs. Full article

Transition metal dichalcogenides, especially molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), exhibit exceptional properties that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. However, the interaction between MoS₂ and technologically relevant substrates, such as platinum (Pt) electrodes, can significantly influence its properties. This study investigates the growth and properties of MoS₂ thin films on Pt substrates using ionized jet deposition, a versatile, low-cost vacuum deposition technique. We explore the effects of the roughness of Pt substrates and self-heating during deposition on the chemical composition, structure, and strain of MoS₂ films. By optimizing the deposition system to achieve crystalline MoS₂ at room temperature, we compare as-deposited and annealed films. The results reveal that as-deposited MoS₂ films are initially amorphous and conform to the Pt substrate roughness, but crystalline growth is reached when the sample holder is sufficiently heated by the plasma. Further post-annealing at 270 °C enhances crystallinity and reduces sulfur-related defects. We also identify a change in the MoS₂–Pt interface properties, with a reduction in Pt–S interactions after annealing. Our findings contribute to the understanding of MoS₂ growth on Pt and provide insights for optimizing MoS₂-based devices in catalysis and electronics. Full article

Background: Looking for anomalies and vascular control gains a central role in colon cancer surgery. Complete mesocolic excision (CME) presents technical challenges, primarily due to the considerable variability in the arterial configuration of the right colon. The importance of understanding colonic vascular anatomy has become more prominent with the adoption of this surgical technique. The aim of this study is to systematically review the vascular anatomical variations in the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) in the setting of extended lymphadenectomy for CME in right colon cancer and to show its impact in clinical practice. Methods: A systematic review of the literature on Medline (PubMed), Web of Science (WOS), and Scopus was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. The following criteria were set for inclusion: (1) studies reporting minimally invasive (robotic, laparoscopic, and hybrid techniques) or open CME/D3 lymphadenectomy; (2) studies reporting patients with right-sided colon cancer; (3) studies reporting the description or illustration of SMA variations. The methodological quality of all included studies was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results: After the literature search, 800 studies were recorded, 31 studies underwent full-text reviews, and 9 studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies reported vascular variations in SMA, and the total number of patients was 813. No intraoperative complications were reported. In 6.4% of patients, post-operative bleeding occurred. Conclusions: Vascular anatomical variations are not a rare entity. In experienced centers, vascular anomalies are not associated with an increase in complications, both in traditional open and minimally invasive surgery (MIS). However, in MIS, full access to central vessels and intraoperative vascular control, moderate retraction, safety maneuvers, and accurate vascular dissection are mandatory. Full article

Introduction: Childhood emotional maltreatment, which includes emotional abuse and neglect, has been identified as a significant risk factor for the development of disordered eating behaviors related to overeating and reduced dietary control. At the same time, the literature suggests that childhood emotional maltreatment appears to be linked to deficits in reflective functioning which, in turn, may increase vulnerability to dysregulated, impulsive, and addictive behaviors. However, to date, the role of a key factor, such as food addiction (FA), within this model has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test a mediation model in which emotional abuse and neglect predict overeating and reduced dietary control through deficits in reflective functioning and FA symptoms. Method: Using a cross-sectional design, a conventional non-clinical sample of 543 participants was recruited and completed a set of standardized questionnaires. A multiple mediation model with observed variables was specified (10,000 bootstrap resampling). Results: The multiple mediation model showed good results, confirming the initial hypotheses. Specifically, emotional abuse and neglect were associated with FA symptoms through deficits in reflective functioning. In turn, FA symptoms predicted overeating behaviors and poor dietary control. Discussion: These findings highlight the central role of FA in linking reflective functioning deficits to disordered eating patterns associated with excessive food consumption. This study advances our understanding of the psychological mechanisms underlying disordered eating behaviors and underscores the need for targeted interventions addressing reflective functioning deficits and food addiction in individuals with a history of childhood emotional maltreatment. Full article

Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a cardiac disease associated with characteristic ECG abnormalities and a heightened risk of sudden cardiac death, especially in young individuals with structurally normal hearts. The primary aim of this study was to highlight, for the first time, the potential of using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), a highly sensitive method, to detect C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) and its receptors, NPR-B and NPR-C, expression in BrS. Whole-blood samples from 12 subjects with type 1 BrS and 12 controls were analyzed. CNP expression was detectable and lower in BrS patients than in the controls, although not significantly. NPR-B and NPR-C expression was significantly reduced in the same patients (p ≤ 0.05). Strong correlations were observed between CNP and NPR-B (p = 0.01) and NPR-C (p < 0.0001), as well as between NPR-B and NPR-C (p = 0.0002). Body weight correlated with CNP (p = 0.02), NPR-B (p = 0.03), and NPR-C (p = 0.02); meanwhile, NPR-B expression was related to height (p = 0.05). This study is the first to analyze CNP expression and its specific receptors using ddPCR technology, showing for the first time their presence and activation in individuals with BrS. Although further research is needed to clarify CNP-related mechanisms, these findings offer a valuable starting point for exploring its role in BrS. Full article

The parasites of the genus Trypanosoma have a great diversity of vertebrate hosts and can be transmitted by several groups of invertebrates. All rodent and marsupial species are potential hosts of different trypanosome species. Most species descriptions of trypanosomes have been based only on morphological characteristics. In this study, we conducted a survey on trypanosome infection in small mammals that were caught in an area of the Brazilian Pantanal (Wetlands) and Cerrado (Savanna) biomes in the state of Mato Grosso. The trypanosomes isolated were included in phylogenetic studies based on the SSUrDNA and gGAPDH genes, which were complemented through morphological studies based on scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The morphological and biological discontinuities, along with the phylogenetic position, made it possible to describe four new species of trypanosome hosted by marsupials and rodents, which we described and named as Trypanosoma daniloi sp. nov., Trypanosoma favoritoae sp. nov., Trypanosoma percequilloi sp. nov., and Trypanosoma trefauti sp. nov. Full article

Introduction: Hyperbilirubinemia in newborns can lead to kernicterus, a severe form of neonatal encephalopathy caused by bilirubin toxicity. Despite timely interventions such as exchange transfusion, kernicterus can still develop, especially in high-risk infants. MRI is crucial for detecting early and evolving signs of bilirubin-induced brain damage. Case Report: We report a term newborn who developed severe hyperbilirubinemia and kernicterus despite receiving exchange transfusion. The infant presented on day 3 of life with jaundice, hypotonia, and feeding difficulties and had a bilirubin level of 51 mg/dL. After exchange transfusion, bilirubin levels normalized, but neurotoxicity persisted. Initial MRI at one month showed mild T1 hyperintensity in the hippocampi with no changes in the basal ganglia. At two months, T1 hyperintensities in the hippocampi partially resolved. By six months, MRI revealed T2 hyperintensities in the globus pallidus and hippocampal atrophy, consistent with kernicterus. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) showed reduced N-acetylaspartate (NAA) levels, indicating neuronal loss. Discussion: MRI is essential in monitoring bilirubin-induced brain injury. In this case, early MRI findings showed mild hippocampal T1 hyperintensity, which resolved partially. At six months, T2 hyperintensities in the globus pallidus confirmed chronic bilirubin encephalopathy. MRS demonstrated a reduction in N-acetylaspartate, indicative of neuronal loss. Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging (SWI) showed no abnormalities, likely due to the myelination process in neonates. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of repeated MRI in detecting bilirubin-induced brain damage. Early neuroimaging enables timely interventions and improves long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants with severe hyperbilirubinemia. Full article

Background: Postoperative neck hematoma is an infrequent but potentially fatal complication following thyroidectomy. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) on the occurrence of this complication. Methods: Patients who underwent thyroidectomy between January 2020 and December 2022 in nine high-volume thyroid surgery centers in Europe were retrospectively evaluated. Based on taking direct oral anticoagulants, patients were divided into two groups: the DOAC Group and the Control Group. Propensity score matching 1:1 was performed between the two groups, which were then compared through a univariate analysis. Results: The total number of patients enrolled based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria was 8985. Following propensity score matching, the study population consisted of 316 patients: 158 in the DOAC Group and 158 in the Control Group. In the DOAC Group, the overall incidence of neck hematoma was 5.70% (4.43% for neck hematomas managed conservatively, and 1.27% for those that required surgical revision of hemostasis). No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of the incidence of this complication. Hospital readmission due to neck hematoma was not observed in any patient. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of the timing of the onset of neck hematomas that required surgical revision of hemostasis. Conclusions: This study showed that direct oral anticoagulants, in the field of thyroid surgery, have no impact on the occurrence of postoperative neck hematoma. Therefore, based on our findings, it can be concluded that thyroidectomy can be safely performed in patients taking this class of drugs. Full article

FPGA-RICH is an FPGA-based online partial particle identification system for the NA62 experiment employing AI techniques. Integrated between the readout of the Ring Imaging Cherenkov detector (RICH) and the low-level trigger processor (L0TP+), FPGA-RICH implements a fast pipeline to process in real-time the RICH raw hit data stream, producing trigger primitives containing elaborate physics information—e.g., the number of charged particles in a physics event—that L0TP+ can use to improve trigger decision efficiency. Deployed on a single FPGA, the system combines classical online processing with a compact Neural Network algorithm to achieve efficient event classification while managing the challenging ∼10 MHz throughput requirement of NA62. The streaming pipeline ensures ∼1 $\mathsf{\mu }$s latency, comparable to that of the NA62 detectors, allowing its seamless integration in the existing TDAQ setup as an additional detector. Development leverages High-Level Synthesis (HLS) and the open-source hls4ml package software–hardware codesign workflow, enabling fast and flexible reprogramming, debugging, and performance optimization. We describe the implementation of the full processing pipeline, the Neural Network classifier, their functional validation, performance metrics and the system’s current status and outlook. Full article