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Research has shown that extensive reading (ER) can promote students’ reading skills and motivation to read in an additional language. However, different pedagogical designs exist also including the use of technologies. In this article, we particularly look at the application of Digital Social Reading (DSR) to the extensive reading of Young Adult Literature (YAL) in English as a Foreign Language (FL). In our study, EFL students from Italy and Hungary were engaged in pre‑, during‑, and post‑reading activities based on the preferred novel on two digital platforms, Moodle and Glose for Education. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from the students and the facilitators participating in the project to investigate their perceived affordances and challenges of extensive DSR and mobile digital reading. Results show that DSR can lead to positive gains in terms of motivation to read, comprehension, and deep reading. Furthermore, the study has revealed that mobile reading has both advantages and disadvantages that still need to be fully understood. Hence, pedagogical implications are drawn.

In today’s rapidly changing world, foreign language (FL) education faces significant global challenges that require innovative approaches to teaching and learning. As educators seek to prepare students for an interconnected future, the integration of multiliteracies and multimodal practices have become essential. These frameworks enable learners to navigate diverse forms of communication and expression, which are crucial in our increasingly digital landscape. In fact, while digitalisation in education is not a new phenomenon, the recent COVID‑19 pandemic has heightened the urgency of exploring how to effectively and meaningfully incorporate digital tools in the language classroom.

This study examines how Digital Storytelling enhanced upper secondary students’ multiliteracy and mediation skills in EFL and their reflections on global issues. Thirteen digital stories, created in response to Young Adult Literature, were analysed using Visual Communication Grammar and Soundscape. This analysis was complemented by students’ diaries and classroom field notes. Results show that students used different remix strategies to reinterpret novel themes, enjoying collaboration and fostering critical and creative skills but struggling with brainstorming, research, and editing.

Abstract Background In response to the imperative need for standardized support for adolescent Gender Dysphoria (GD), the Italian Academy of Pediatrics, in collaboration with the Italian Society of Pediatrics, the Italian Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Italian Society of Adolescent Medicine and Italian Society of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry is drafting a position paper. The purpose of this paper is to convey the author's opinion on the topic, offering foundational information on potential aspects of gender-affirming care and emphasizing the care and protection of children and adolescents with GD. Main body Recognizing that adolescents may choose interventions based on their unique needs and goals and understanding that every individual within this group has a distinct trajectory, it is crucial to ensure that each one is welcomed and supported. The approach to managing individuals with GD is a multi-stage process involving a multidisciplinary team throughout all phases. Decisions regarding treatment should be reached collaboratively by healthcare professionals and the family, while considering the unique needs and circumstances of the individual and be guided by scientific evidence rather than biases or ideologies. Politicians and high court judges should address discrimination based on gender identity in legislation and support service development that aligns with the needs of young people. It is essential to establish accredited multidisciplinary centers equipped with the requisite skills and experience to effectively manage adolescents with GD, thereby ensuring the delivery of high-quality care. Conclusion Maintaining an evidence-based approach is essential to safeguard the well-being of transgender and gender diverse adolescents.

Summary: Background: NOTCH3 encodes a transmembrane receptor critical for vascular smooth muscle cell function. NOTCH3 variants are the leading cause of hereditary cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). While monoallelic cysteine-involving missense variants in NOTCH3 are well-studied in cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), patients with biallelic variants in NOTCH3 are extremely rare and not well characterised. Methods: In this study, we present clinical and genetic data from 25 patients with biallelic NOTCH3 variants and conduct a literature review of another 25 cases (50 patients in total). Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were analysed by expert neuroradiologists to better understand the phenotype associated with biallelic NOTCH3 variants. Findings: Our systematic analyses verified distinct genotype-phenotype correlations for the two types of biallelic variants in NOTCH3. Biallelic loss-of-function variants (26 patients) lead to a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by spasticity, childhood-onset stroke, and periatrial white matter volume loss resembling periventricular leukomalacia. Conversely, patients with biallelic cysteine-involving missense variants (24 patients) fall within CADASIL spectrum phenotype with early adulthood onset stroke, dementia, and deep white matter lesions without significant volume loss. White matter lesion volume is comparable between patients with biallelic cysteine-involving missense variants and individuals with CADASIL. Notably, monoallelic carriers of loss-of-function variants are predominantly asymptomatic, with only a few cases reporting nonspecific headaches. Interpretation: We propose a NOTCH3-SVD classification depending on dosage and variant type. This study not only expands our knowledge of biallelic NOTCH3 variants but also provides valuable insight into the underlying mechanisms of the disease, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of NOTCH3-related SVD. Funding: The Wellcome Trust, the MRC.

BackgroundGross motor function impairments and manual dexterity deficits are frequently observed in children and adolescents with Cerebral Palsy (CP), having a major impact on their activity level and autonomy. Improving manual dexterity and activity level of patients with CP is often the focus of rehabilitation. Novel and adjuvant treatment methods that could support the standard training also in chronic conditions are a research priority. The transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, which provides a bottom-up stimulation of subcortical and cortical brain structures, enhancing brain GABA and Noradrenaline levels. This technique may play a pivotal role in brain plasticity, which has not been tested in CP patients before.Methods44 children and adolescents with CP will be involved, treated in pairs in a randomized, double-blind, pre-post test study. The two groups will undergo the Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy Including Lower Extremities (HABIT-ILE) for 2 consecutive weeks, with 3 h daily sessions for 5 days per week, for an overall time interval of 30 h; the training will be combined with the application for 75 min/day of active or sham tVNS, in separate, randomly allocated groups. The primary outcome measure will include the scores at the Assisting Hand Assessment and Box and Block Test, and at an ad-hoc visuomotor task evaluating manual visuomotor control. Secondary outcomes will include the scores at the Children’s Hand Experience Questionnaire, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function, Gross Motor Function Measure, Vineland, Pediatric quality of life inventory. The evaluation points will include pre (T0), post (T1) and 3-month follow up (T2) assessments. Safety and tolerability will also be assessed.ResultsThe results of this trial will assess whether tVNS can effectively boost the effects of an intensive two-week bimanual training, in improving manual dexterity in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy, ensuring safety and tolerability throughout the intervention period.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06372028.

Objetivo: validar o conteúdo de uma cartilha sobre avaliação dos contatos de pessoas com tuberculose pulmonar. Método: estudo metodológico realizado em Ananindeua, Pará, Brasil, entre junho e outubro de 2021. Participaram 16 especialistas selecionados com base em critérios de expertise, que responderam a um instrumento organizado com escala de Likert de sete itens. Os dados foram analisados por meio de estatística descritiva para obter o Índice de Validação de Conteúdo. Resultados: foram apresentados em três tópicos: primeira versão da cartilha, validação por especialistas e descrição da versão final, que obteve um Índice de Validação de Conteúdo de 74,75%, considerado aceitável pela literatura. Com base nas sugestões, houve reestruturação de textos e imagens. A versão final ficou com 20 páginas e destaca sinais e sintomas da doença, orientações para coleta de material para exame, convívio familiar com o caso índice, contexto regionalizado e humanizado entre profissional de saúde e usuário. Conclusão e implicações para a prática: a cartilha foi considerada adequada para orientar as práticas de avaliação dos contatos de pessoas com tuberculose, e seu conteúdo é composto por informações que podem contribuir para uma maior adesão ao tratamento, diagnósticos precoces da doença e interrupção da cadeia de transmissão.

Abstract We begin a study of the Higgs branch of six-dimensional (1, 0) little string theories governing the worldvolumes of heterotic ALE instantons. We give a description of this space by constructing the corresponding magnetic quiver. The latter is a three-dimensional N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 quiver gauge theory that flows in the infrared to a fixed point whose quantum corrected Coulomb branches is the Higgs branch of the six-dimensional theory of interest. We present results for both types of heterotic strings, and mostly for ℂ2 /ℤ k ALE spaces. Our analysis is valid both in the absence and in the presence of small instantons. Along the way, we also describe small SO(32) instanton transitions in terms of the corresponding magnetic quiver, which parallels a similar treatment of the small E 8 instanton transitions in the context of the E 8 × E 8 heterotic string.

Summary: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic heightened risks for individuals with hematological malignancies due to compromised immune systems, leading to more severe outcomes and increased mortality. While interventions like vaccines, targeted antivirals, and monoclonal antibodies have been effective for the general population, their benefits for these patients may not be as pronounced. Methods: The EPICOVIDEHA registry (National Clinical Trials Identifier, NCT04733729) gathers COVID-19 data from hematological malignancy patients since the pandemic's start worldwide. It spans various global locations, allowing comprehensive analysis over the first three years (2020–2022). Findings: The EPICOVIDEHA registry collected data from January 2020 to December 2022, involving 8767 COVID-19 cases in hematological malignancy patients from 152 centers across 41 countries, with 42% being female. Over this period, there was a significant reduction in critical infections and an overall decrease in mortality from 29% to 4%. However, hospitalization, particularly in the ICU, remained associated with higher mortality rates. Factors contributing to increased mortality included age, multiple comorbidities, active malignancy at COVID-19 onset, pulmonary symptoms, and hospitalization. On the positive side, vaccination with one to two doses or three or more doses, as well as encountering COVID-19 in 2022, were associated with improved survival. Interpretation: Patients with hematological malignancies still face elevated risks, despite reductions in critical infections and overall mortality rates over time. Hospitalization, especially in ICUs, remains a significant concern. The study underscores the importance of vaccination and the timing of COVID-19 exposure in 2022 for enhanced survival in this patient group. Ongoing monitoring and targeted interventions are essential to support this vulnerable population, emphasizing the critical role of timely diagnosis and prompt treatment in preventing severe COVID-19 cases. Funding: Not applicable.

Objectives: Elderly patients with hematologic malignancies face the highest risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. The infection's impact on different age groups remains unstudied in detail. Methods: We analyzed elderly patients (age groups: 65-70, 71-75, 76-80, and >80 years old) with hematologic malignancies included in the EPICOVIDEHA registry between January 2020 and July 2022. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models were conducted to identify factors influencing death in COVID-19 patients with hematological malignancy. Results: The study included data from 3,603 elderly patients (aged 65 or older) with hematological malignancy, with a majority being male (58.1%) and a significant proportion having comorbidities. The patients were divided into four age groups, and the analysis assessed COVID-19 outcomes, vaccination status, and other variables in relation to age and pandemic waves. The 90-day survival rate for patients with COVID-19 was 71.2%, with significant differences between groups. The pandemic waves had varying impacts, with the first wave affecting patients over 80 years old, the second being more severe in 65-70, and the third being the least severe in all age groups. Factors contributing to 90-day mortality included age, comorbidities, lymphopenia, active malignancy, acute leukemia, less than three vaccine doses, severe COVID-19, and using only corticosteroids as treatment. Conclusion: These data underscore the heterogeneity of elderly hematological patients, highlight the different impacts of COVID-19 waves and the pivotal importance of vaccination, and may help in planning future healthcare efforts.

Abstract We study orientifold projections of families of four-dimensional N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 toric quiver gauge theories. We restrict to quivers that have the unusual property of being associated with multiple periodic planar diagrams which give rise, in general, to inequivalent models. A suitable orientifold projection relates a subfamily of the latter by conformal duality. That is, there exist exactly marginal deformations that connect the projected models. The deformations take the form of a sign flip in some of the superpotential interactions, similarly to the β-deformation of N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM. Our construction generalizes previous results on the orientifold projections of the PdP3b and PdP3c singularities.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the haemato-biochemical parameters of tambaqui Colossoma macropomum in different growth phases in an integrated culture with açai Euterpe oleracea. For this, 240 juvenile tambaqui with initial average weight and length of 21.8 ± 7.74 g and 11.28 ± 6.88 cm were cultured in an aquaponic system integrated with açai for 180 days. During the period, 108 healthy tambaquis were sampled and categorized into five distinct growth phases. At each growth phase blood aliquots were collected. The first phase being fish with an average weight of 103.1 ± 5.27 g; second phase with 823.4 ± 42.6 g; third phase with 1087.75 ± 16.38 g; fourth phase with 1402.0 ± 76.6 g and fifth phase with 1815.0±65.1 g. Water quality variables remained within acceptable parameters for both cultures. Erythrocyte was significantly lower in the first and second phase. Haemoglobin was significantly lower in fish in the first phase. Haematocrit remained the same from the second phase onwards. MCV was significantly lower in fish with 1815.0 ± 65.1 g. Plasma glucose levels were significantly lower in the first and second phases. Cholesterol, triglycerides, and total proteins were significantly higher in fish of the fifth phase. AST was significantly lower in fish from the third phase when compared to fish from the first and fifth phases. ALT was significantly higher in fish from the first phase when compared to fish from the third, fourth, and fifth phases. The results are important tools for assessing the health and well-being of tambaqui in future research involving aquaponic cultures.

ABSTRACT: Eryngiumfoetidum exhibits low germination rates and heterogeneous seed maturation. Thus, in order to reduce problems during seedling production, a number of treatments can be used. The aim of this study was to assess the physiological quality of Amazon chicory seeds submitted to water immersion treatments. Two experiments were conducted, under controlled temperature (25 ºC) and nursery conditions, with six treatments (0, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours) in each. A completely randomized design was used in the controlled condition and random blocks in the nursery. The following were assessed: germination/emergence speed index (GSI/ESI), mean germination/emergence time (MGT/MET), germination/emergence percentage, normal seedling development, fresh weight and dry weight. The data were submitted to linear and second-order polynomial regression analysis in the R statistical program. Under controlled conditions, Maximum GSI was 4.65 after 18.03 hours of immersion, and for MGT, 12 h of immersion provided a shorter average time (13.76 days) and obtained 39.26% of germinated seeds after 26.27 h of immersion, as well as 19.34% of normal seedlings in 27.97 h. In the nursery, a lower MET was observed after 48 h and mean fresh and dry weight were higher after 12 h (18.47 and 1.44 g, respectively). Thus, water immersion for 12 hours resulted in a shorter germination time and higher fresh and dry weight, and the treatment may have helped reactivate embryo metabolism and growth.

Abstract Background It is well known that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a global health crisis, especially for young people. However, most studies were conducted during the first waves of the pandemic. Few Italian studies specifically attempted to broadly assess young people’s mental health status during the fourth wave of the pandemic. Methods This study aimed at evaluating the mental health status among a group of Italian adolescents and young adults during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. 11,839 high school students and 15,000 university students (age range 14–25) were asked to complete a multidimensional online survey, of which 7,146 (26,6%) agreed to participate. The survey also included standardized measures for depression, anxiety, anger, somatic symptoms, resilience, loneliness and post-traumatic growth. Two separate clusters were identified through cluster analysis. Random forest, classification tree and logistic regressions analyses were applied to identify factors associated to a good or a poor level of mental health and, thus, to define students’ mental health profiles. Results Overall, the students in our sample showed high levels of psychopathology. The clustering methods performed identified two separate clusters reflecting groups of students with different psychological features, that we further defined as "poor mental health" and "good mental health". The random forest and the logistic regressions found that the most discriminating variables among those two groups were: UCLA Loneliness Scale score, self-harm behaviors, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-10 score, satisfaction with family relationships, Fear of COVID-19 Scale score, gender and binge eating behaviors. The classification tree analysis identified students’ profiles, showing that, globally, poor mental health was defined by higher scores of loneliness and self-harm, followed by being of female gender, presenting binge eating behaviors and, finally, having unsatisfying family relationships. Conclusions The results of this study confirmed the major psychological distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in a large sample of Italian students, and provided further insights regarding those factors associated with a good or poor mental health status. Our findings suggest the importance of implementing programs targeting aspects that have been found to be associated to a good mental health.

The jambu (Acmella oleracea) production can be influenced by the growing season and light available for metabolic processes. This study aimed to assess the agronomic and physiological performance of two jambu varieties, under different shading levels, during the winter and summer of the Brazilian Amazon. Two random block experiments were conducted, in a 2 x 4 factorial scheme, consisting of two jambu varieties (yellow and purple flower) and four shading levels (0, 30, 50 and 70 %), with four replications. Physiological, growth and yield traits were assessed. There was no significant interaction between treatments and growing seasons (Amazon winter and summer) for growth or yield traits, nor between treatments for the physiological characteristics. The cultivation without shading screen can increase the shoot dry weight of both varieties; the yellow flower variety exhibited early-onset flowering regardless of the shading screen used; the “Amazon summer” growing season increased the jambu yield by 33 %, while the 70 % shading reduced the net photosynthetic rate, consequently not favoring the vegetative development of the jambu plants. As such, it is recommended that the yellow and purple flower jambu varieties be grown without shading screen in the Amazon summer.

Abstract n‐Type organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) and organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) are less developed than their p‐type counterparts. Herein, polynaphthalenediimide (PNDI)‐based copolymers bearing novel fluorinated selenophene‐vinylene‐selenophene (FSVS) units as efficient materials for both n‐type OECTs and n‐type OFETs are reported. The PNDI polymers with oligo(ethylene glycol) (EG7) side chains P(NDIEG7‐FSVS), affords a high µC* of > 0.2 F cm−1 V−1 s−1, outperforming the benchmark n‐type Pg4NDI‐T2 and Pg4NDI‐gT2 by two orders of magnitude. The deep‐lying LUMO of −4.63 eV endows P(NDIEG7‐FSVS) with an ultra‐low threshold voltage of 0.16 V. Moreover, the conjugated polymer with octyldodecyl (OD) side chains P(NDIOD‐FSVS) exhibits a surprisingly low energetic disorder with an Urbach energy of 36 meV and an ultra‐low activation energy of 39 meV, resulting in high electron mobility of up to 0.32 cm2 V−1 s−1 in n‐type OFETs. These results demonstrate the great potential for simultaneously achieving a lower LUMO and a tighter intermolecular packing for the next‐generation efficient n‐type organic electronics.

Abstract We extend the analysis of [9] to the 6d (1, 0) SCFTs known as massive E-string theories, which can be engineered in massive Type IIA with 8 − n 0 < 8 D8-branes close to an O8 − (or O8* if n 0 = 8, 9). For each choice of n 0 = 1, …, 9 the massive E 1 + 8 − n 0 $$ {E}_{1+\left(8-{n}_0\right)} $$ -strings (including the more exotic E ~ 1 $$ {\overset{\sim }{E}}_1 $$ and E 0) are classified by constrained E 8 Kac labels, i.e. a subset of Hom(ℤ k , E 8), from which one can read off the flavor subalgebra of E 1 + 8 − n 0 $$ {E}_{1+\left(8-{n}_0\right)} $$ of each SCFT. We construct hierarchies for two types of Higgs branch RG flows: flows between massive theories defined by the same n 0 but different labels; flows between massive theories with different n 0. These latter flows are triggered by T-brane vev’s for the right SU factor of the SCFT global symmetry, whose rank is a function of both k and n 0, a situation which has so far remained vastly unexplored.

Abstract Individuals with Angelman syndrome (AS) present with severe intellectual disability alongside a social phenotype characterised by social communication difficulties and an increased drive for social engagement. As the social phenotype in this condition is poorly understood, we examined patterns of social attention and social modulation of attention in AS. Twenty-four individuals with AS and twenty-one young children with similar mental age were shown videos featuring unfamiliar actors who performed simple actions across two conditions: a playful condition, in which the actor showed positive facial emotions, and a neutral condition, in which the actor showed a neutral facial expression. During the passive observation of the videos, participants’ proportion of time spent watching the two areas of interest (faces and actions) was examined using eye-tracking technology. We found that the playful condition elicited increased proportion of fixations duration to the actor’s face compared to the neutral condition similarly across groups. Additionally, the proportion of fixations duration to the action area was similar across groups in the two conditions. However, children with AS looked towards the actor’s face for a shorter duration compared to the comparison group across conditions. This pattern of similarities and differences provides novel insight on the complex social phenotype of children with AS.

Abstract Background Previous research suggests that Warburg‐subtypes are related to potentially important survival differences in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. In the present study, we investigated whether mutational subgroups based on somatic mutations in RAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, and MET, which are known to promote the Warburg‐effect, as well as mismatch repair (MMR) status, hold prognostic value in CRC. In addition, we investigated whether Warburg‐subtypes provide additional prognostic information, independent of known prognostic factors like TNM stage. Methods CRC patients (n = 2344) from the prospective Netherlands Cohort Study (NLCS) were classified into eight mutually exclusive mutational subgroups, based on observed mutations in RAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, and MET, and MMR status: All‐wild‐type + MMRproficient, KRASmut + MMRproficient, KRASmut + PIK3CAmut + MMRproficient, PIK3CAmut + MMRproficient, BRAFmut + MMRproficient, BRAFmut + MMRdeficient, other + MMRproficient, and other + MMRdeficient. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression models were used to investigate associations between mutational subgroups and survival, as well as associations between our previously established Warburg‐subtypes and survival within these mutational subgroups. Results Compared to patients with all‐wild‐type + MMRproficient CRC, patients with KRASmut + MMRproficient, KRASmut + PIK3CAmut + MMRproficient, BRAFmut + MMRproficient, or other + MMRproficient CRC had a statistically significant worse survival (HRCRC‐specific ranged from 1.29 to 1.88). In contrast, patients with other + MMRdeficient CRC had the most favorable survival (HRCRC‐specific 0.48). No statistically significant survival differences were observed for the Warburg‐subtypes within mutational subgroups. Conclusion Our results highlight the prognostic potential of mutational subgroups in CRC. Warburg‐subtypes did not provide additional prognostic information within these mutational subgroups. Future larger‐scale prospective studies are necessary to validate our findings and to examine the potential clinical utility of CRC subtyping based on mutational subgroups.

Abstract N M5-branes probing the intersection between the orbifold ℂ2 /ΓADE and an E 8 wall give rise to 6d (1, 0) SCFTs known as ADE-type orbi-instantons. At fixed N and order of the orbifold, each element of Hom(ΓADE , E 8) defines a different SCFT. The SCFTs are connected by Higgs branch RG flows, which generically reduce the flavor symmetry of the UV fixed point. We determine the full hierarchy of these RG flows for type A, i.e. ℂ2 /ℤ k , for any value of N and k. The hierarchy takes the form of an intricate Hasse diagram: each node represents an IR orbi-instanton (homomorphism), and each edge an allowed flow, compatibly with the 6d a-theorem. The partial order is defined via quiver subtraction of the 3d magnetic quivers associated with the 6d SCFTs, which is equivalent to performing a so-called Kraft-Procesi transition between homomorphisms.

Key Clinical Message Baricitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor (JAK‐inhibitor), seems to contribute to an improvement of a child affected by Aicardi‐Goutières syndrome (AGS), reducing the interferon score and determining a recovery of cognitive, communicative, and relational dysfunctions, while the gross motor deficit persisted. Abstract We report the treatment response to baricitinib, a JAK‐inhibitor, in a 4‐year‐old girl affected by Aicardi‐Goutières syndrome (AGS2, RNASEH2B mutation). Using quantitative measures, we detected a significant amelioration characterized by a complete recovery of cognitive, communicative, and relational skills after 8 and 16 months from the beginning of therapy.

One of the challenges faced by language teachers is promoting students’ reading for pleasure while also helping them confront world issues. Introducing Young Adult Literature in the EFL classroom can be of great help in this sense. However, it is not easy to select the most appropriate texts and topics, as teenage students’ reading preferences are still not well known. Against this background, we administered an online questionnaire to Austrian, Italian, and Hungarian students to explore their reading preferences and habits. In this article, we report the results of this questionnaire and draw some pedagogical implications.

Abstract We study various orientifold projections of 4d N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 toric gauge theories, associated with CY singularities known as L a,b,a /ℤ2, with a + b even. We obtain superconformal chiral theories that have the same central charge, anomalies and superconformal index, whereas they were different before the orientifold. Some of these projections are implemented by a novel type of orientifold without fixed loci, known as glide orientifold. We claim that these theories flow to the same conformal manifold, and they are connected by quadratic exactly marginal deformations. The latter can be written in terms of conjugate pairs of bifundamental fields of R-charge one, generalizing previous results for unoriented non-chiral theories.

ABSTRACT Amazon chicory is still a little-known vegetable despite its great agronomic potential. The characterization of chicory genotypes concerning genetic divergence is a key step for breeding programs, as it allows the selection of superior individuals and to explore the variability and complementarity of characteristics via interbreeding between newly generated genotypes. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the genetic divergence among Amazon chicory creole genotypes from the northern Brazilian states of Pará and Rondônia based on morpho-agronomic traits. We conducted an experiment in a randomized block design with eight chicory genotypes (treatments) and four replications. Both quantitative and qualitative characteristics were evaluated. Genetic divergence was estimated via squared generalized Mahalanobis distance (D2), considering only quantitative characters, and the genotypes were subsequently clustered via the UPGMA method. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among genotypes for all studied characteristics, except shoot fresh weight. The UPGMA grouped the genotypes into three clusters, which demonstrated that the genotypes from Colares and Santarém Novo (Pará) (Chic-02 and Chic-04) were the most divergent as compared to the genotypes from Castanhal and Santa Isabel do Pará (Pará). Qualitative characteristics showed a monomorphic behavior and, therefore, were not used to assess genetic divergences. To obtain segregating populations with complementary characteristics, crossbreeding between the two most divergent clusters is recommended.

Two ternary copper(II) complexes with an anthraquinone and a N,N-heterocyclic donor, [Cu(dmp)(L)(H2O)](ClO4) (1), [Cu(bpy)(L)(dmso)](ClO4) (2), in which dmp = 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline, bpy = 2,2′-bipyridine, and HL = 1-hydroxyanthracene-9,10-dione were synthesized and fully characterized by conductivity, elemental, and spectral analyses (FTIR and UV-Vis; EPR and ESI-MS). The structure of 1 reveals that Cu(II) is bound to two oxygens of L, two nitrogens of dmp, and a molecule of water in the fifth position. In complex 2.1, Cu(II) is also pentacoordinated with an O-bonded dmso in the axial position. The presence of the heteroleptic complexes in solution was evidenced by ESI-MS, EPR in dmso solution and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. All complexes bind to CT-DNA with affinity constants of approximately 104. Complex 2 can nick plasmid DNA but no cleavage was performed by complex 1. The investigation of DNA interactions by spectrofluorimetry using ethidium bromide (EB) showed that it was displaced from DNA sites by the addition of the complexes. The complexes inhibited the growth of chronic myelogenous leukemia and human squamous carcinoma cells with low IC50 values, complex 1 being the most effective.

Abstract Previous research has suggested that the expression of proteins related to the Warburg effect may have prognostic value in colorectal cancer (CRC), but results remain inconsistent. Our objective was to investigate the relationship between Warburg‐subtypes and patient survival in a large population‐based series of CRC patients. In the present study, we investigated the expression of six proteins related to the Warburg effect (LDHA, GLUT1, MCT4, PKM2, p53, PTEN) by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays (TMAs) from 2,399 incident CRC patients from the prospective Netherlands Cohort Study. Expression levels of the six proteins were combined into a pathway‐based sum‐score and patients were categorised into three Warburg‐subtypes (low/moderate/high). The associations between Warburg‐subtypes and CRC‐specific and overall survival were investigated using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression models. CRC patients were classified as Warburg‐low (n = 695, 29.0%), Warburg‐moderate (n = 858, 35.8%) or Warburg‐high (n = 841, 35.1%). Patients with Warburg‐high CRC had the poorest CRC‐specific [hazard ratio (HR) 1.17; 95% CI 1.00–1.38] and overall survival (HR 1.19; 95% CI 1.05–1.35), independent of known prognostic factors. In stratified analyses, this was particularly true for patients with tumour‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stage III CRC (HRCRC‐specific 1.45; 95% CI 1.10–1.92 and HRoverall 1.47; 95% CI 1.15–1.87), and cancers located in the rectum (HRoverall 1.56; 95% CI 1.15–2.13). To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify the prognostic value of immunohistochemistry‐based Warburg‐subtypes in CRC. Our data suggest that Warburg‐subtypes are related to potentially important differences in CRC survival. Further research is required to validate our findings and to investigate the potential clinical utility of these Warburg‐subtypes in CRC.

The unique sensing features of the tilted Fibre Bragg Grating (TFBG) as a single three-parameter optical sensor are demonstrated in this work, to monitor the manufacturing process of composite materials produced using Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Moulding (VARTM) process. Each TFBG sensor can measure simultaneously and separately strain, temperature and refractive index (RI) of the material where the optical fibre is embedded. A TFBG embedded in a 2 mm glass-fibre/epoxy composite plate was used to measure the thermomechanical variations induced during the curing process. At the same time, the RI measurements, performed with the same TFBG sensor, can estimate the degree of cure of the resin. The TFBG sensor shows to be a valid and promising technology to improve the state of art of sensing and monitoring in composite material manufacturing.

Abstract We study 4d SCFTs obtained by orientifold projections on necklace quivers with fractional branes. The models obtained by this procedure are 𝒩 = 1 linear quivers with unitary, symplectic and orthogonal gauge groups, bifundamental and tensorial matter. Remarkably, models that are not dual in the unoriented case can have the same central charges and superconformal index after the projection. The reason for this behavior rests upon the ubiquitous presence of adjoint fields with R-charge one. We claim that the presence of such fields is at the origin of the notion of inherited S-duality on the models’ conformal manifold.

IntroductionAicardi-Goutières Syndrome (AGS) is a rare encephalopathy with early onset that can be transmitted in both dominant and recessive forms. Its phenotypic covers a wide range of neurological and extraneurological symptoms. Nine genes that are all involved in nucleic acids (NAs) metabolism or signaling have so far been linked to the AGS phenotype. Recently, a link between autoimmune or neurodegenerative conditions and mitochondrial dysfunctions has been found. As part of the intricate system of epigenetic control, the mtDNA goes through various alterations. The displacement (D-loop) region represents one of the most methylated sites in the mtDNA. The term "mitoepigenetics" has been introduced as a result of increasing data suggesting that epigenetic processes may play a critical role in the control of mtDNA transcription and replication. Since we showed that RNASEH2B and RNASEH2A-mutated Lymphoblastoid Cell Lines (LCLs) derived from AGS patients had mitochondrial alterations, highlighting changes in the mtDNA content, the main objective of this study was to examine any potential methylation changes in the D-loop regulatory region of mitochondria and their relationship to the mtDNA copy number in peripheral blood cells of AGS patients with mutations in various AGS genes and healthy controls.Materials and methodsWe collected blood samples from 25 AGS patients and we performed RT-qPCR to assess the mtDNA copy number and pyrosequencing to measure DNA methylation levels in the D-loop region.ResultsComparing AGS patients to healthy controls, D-loop methylation levels and mtDNA copy number increased significantly. We also observed that in AGS patients, the mtDNA copy number increased with age at sampling, but not the D-loop methylation levels, and there was no relationship between sex and mtDNA copy number. In addition, the D-loop methylation levels and mtDNA copy number in the AGS group showed a non-statistically significant positive relation.ConclusionThese findings, which contradict the evidence for an inverse relationship between D-loop methylation levels and mtDNA copy number, show that AGS patients have higher D-loop methylation levels than healthy control subjects. Additional research is needed to identify the function of these features in the etiology and course of AGS.

BackgroundThe outcome of COVID-19 in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) recipients is almost uniformely considered poor. The aim of present study was to retrospectively analyse the outcome and risk factors for mortality in a large series of patients who developed COVID-19 infection after an allogeneic HSCT.MethodsThis multicenter retrospective study promoted by the European Hematology Association – Infections in Hematology Study Working Group, included 326 adult HSCT patients who had COVID-19 between January 2020 and March 2022.ResultsThe median time from HSCT to the diagnosis of COVID-19 was 268 days (IQR 86-713; range 0-185 days). COVID-19 severity was mild in 21% of the patients, severe in 39% and critical in 16% of the patients. In multivariable analysis factors associated with a higher risk of mortality were, age above 50 years, presence of 3 or more comorbidities, active hematologic disease at time of COVID-19 infection, development of COVID-19 within 12 months of HSCT, and severe/critical infections. Overall mortality rate was 21% (n=68): COVID-19 was the main or secondary cause of death in 16% of the patients (n=53).ConclusionsMortality in HSCT recipients who develop COVID-19 is high and largely dependent on age, comorbidities, active hematologic disease, timing from transplant and severity of the infection.

BackgroundPrenatal maternal stress is a key risk factor for infants' development. Previous research has highlighted consequences for infants' socio-emotional and cognitive outcomes, but less is known for what regards socio-cognitive development. In this study, we report on the effects of maternal prenatal stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic on 12-month-old infants' behavioral markers of socio-cognitive development.MethodsNinety infants and their mothers provided complete longitudinal data from birth to 12 months. At birth, mothers reported on pandemic-related stress during pregnancy. At infants' 12-month-age, a remote mother-infant interaction was videotaped: after an initial 2-min face-to-face episode, the experimenter remotely played a series of four auditory stimuli (2 human and 2 non-human sounds). The auditory stimuli sequence was counterbalanced among participants and each sound was repeated three times every 10 seconds (Exposure, 30 seconds) while mothers were instructed not to interact with their infants and to display a neutral still-face expression. Infants' orienting, communication, and pointing toward the auditory source was coded micro-analytically and a socio-cognitive score (SCS) was obtained by means of a principal component analysis.ResultsInfants equally oriented to human and non-human auditory stimuli. All infants oriented toward the sound during the Exposure episode, 80% exhibited any communication directed to the auditory source, and 48% showed at least one pointing toward the sound. Mothers who reported greater prenatal pandemic-related stress had infants with higher probability of showing no communication, t = 2.14 (p = .035), or pointing, t = 1.93 (p = .057). A significant and negative linear association was found between maternal prenatal pandemic-related stress and infants' SCS at 12 months, R2 = .07 (p = .010), while adjusting for potential confounders.ConclusionsThis study suggests that prenatal maternal stress during the COVID-19 pandemic might have increased the risk of an altered socio-cognitive development in infants as assessed through an observational paradigm at 12 months. Special preventive attention should be devoted to infants born during the pandemic.

ABSTRACT Shading screens have been extensively used in leafy-vegetables production system. Nevertheless, there is still a substantial lack of knowledge regarding the effects of this technology on the performance of non-conventional vegetables such as jambu, a typical staple food with social and economic importance for the Amazon region. This study thus aimed to evaluate the effects of shading screens on the agronomic performance of two jambu varieties. The experiment was performed in a randomized block design, in a 4 x 2 factorial scheme (shading screens and varieties), with four replications. Plants were then evaluated for morphophysiological and yield parameters. As an outcome, there was no significant interaction between shading screens and varieties for assessed variables. On the other hand, the shading screen itself affected significantly jambu varieties yield. The 50%-shading screen for instance provided both higher fresh weight accumulation and higher shoot water content. Moreover, 50%-shading screen led to an increase in both productivity (Kg m-2) and yield (bunch m-2) by 46%, respectively. The use of 50%-shading screen improves the agronomic performance of jambu, hence being a suitable technological alternative available for the farmers.

There is now wide recognition that for language students to be able to communicate in today’s globalised world, they need to be engaged in a variety of multiliteracy and multimodal practices that transform them in creators of meaning. Digital storytelling is one of such practices. It combines the power of narration with that of technology and allows students to expand their language and digital literacy skills while also helping them develop their own voices. In our study, two groups of elementary and intermediate university students of Italian as a second language were involved in a two-part project aimed at the composition of a digital story on the city of Venice. In the first part, students participated in both classroom and museum activities, which encouraged them to practice their skills in Italian as well as to learn about the Venetian cultural heritage. In the second part, students were guided to craft their own digital tours of the city of Venice using the izi.TRAVEL platform. The multimodal analysis of the two tours shows that creating digital stories based on students’ understanding and interpretation of cultural heritage promoted both their narration and mediation skills in the second language and their role as global citizens.

Pathogenic loss-of-function variants in the IQ motif and SEC7 domain containing protein 2 (IQSEC2) gene cause intellectual disability with Rett syndrome (RTT)-like features. The aim of this study was to obtain systematic information on the natural history and extra-central nervous system (CNS) manifestations for the Italian IQSEC2 population (>90%) by using structured family interviews and semi-quantitative questionnaires. IQSEC2 encephalopathy prevalence estimate was 7.0 to 7.9 × 10−7. Criteria for typical RTT were met in 42.1% of the cases, although psychomotor regression was occasionally evidenced. Genetic diagnosis was occasionally achieved in infancy despite a clinical onset before the first 24 months of life. High severity in both the CNS and extra-CNS manifestations for the IQSEC2 patients was documented and related to a consistently adverse quality of life. Neurodevelopmental delay was diagnosed before the onset of epilepsy by 1.8 to 2.4 years. An earlier age at menarche in IQSEC2 female patients was reported. Sleep disturbance was highly prevalent (60 to 77.8%), with mandatory co-sleeping behavior (50% of the female patients) being related to de novo variant origin, younger age, taller height with underweight, better social interaction, and lower life quality impact for the family and friends area. In conclusion, the IQSEC2 encephalopathy is a rare and likely underdiagnosed developmental encephalopathy leading to an adverse life quality impact.

Abstract We study the Cardy-like limit of the superconformal index of generic N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 SCFTs with ABCD gauge algebra, providing strong evidence for a universal formula that captures the behavior of the index at finite order in the rank and in the fugacities associated to angular momenta. The formula extends previous results valid at lowest order, and generalizes them to generic SCFTs. We corroborate the validity of our proposal by studying several examples, beyond the well-understood toric class. We compute the index also for models without a weakly-coupled gravity dual, whose gravitational anomaly is not of order one.

Abstract Faces hold a substantial value for effective social interactions and sharing. Covering faces with masks, due to COVID-19 regulations, may lead to difficulties in using social signals, in particular, in individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions. Daily-life social participation of individuals who were born preterm is of immense importance for their quality of life. Here we examined face tuning in individuals (aged 12.79 ± 1.89 years) who were born preterm and exhibited signs of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), a dominant form of brain injury in preterm birth survivors. For assessing the face sensitivity in this population, we implemented a recently developed experimental tool, a set of Face-n-Food images bordering on the style of Giuseppe Arcimboldo. The key benefit of these images is that single components do not trigger face processing. Although a coarse face schema is thought to be hardwired in the brain, former preterms exhibit substantial shortages in the face tuning not only compared with typically developing controls but also with individuals with autistic spectrum disorders. The lack of correlations between the face sensitivity and other cognitive abilities indicates that these deficits are domain-specific. This underscores impact of preterm birth sequelae for social functioning at large. Comparison of the findings with data in individuals with other neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions provides novel insights into the origins of deficient face processing.

Abstract The interaction of ultraintense laser pulses with solids is largely affected by the plasma gradient at the vacuum–solid interface, which modifies the absorption and ultimately, controls the energy distribution function of heated electrons. A micrometer scale-length plasma has been predicted to yield a significant enhancement of the energy and weight of the fast electron population and to play a major role in laser-driven proton acceleration with thin foils. We report on recent experimental results on proton acceleration from laser interaction with foil targets at ultra-relativistic intensities. We show a threefold increase of the proton cut-off energy when a micrometer scale-length pre-plasma is introduced by irradiation with a low energy femtosecond pre-pulse. Our realistic numerical simulations agree with the observed gain of the proton cut-off energy and confirm the role of stochastic heating of fast electrons in the enhancement of the accelerating sheath field.

The present study aimed at assessing whether children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) can imagine object directed actions similarly to their normally developed peers. We asked children with CP (n = 12) and paired healthy controls (n = 12) to imagine in first person perspective eight daily actions, after observing them through videoclips presented on a computer screen. During motor imagery (MI) children were interrupted at a specific timepoint (e.g., at 2.5 s) from the start. Two frames extracted from the videoclips were then presented on the screen. One of the two depicted the correct timepoint at which the imagined action was interrupted, while the other represented an earlier or later timepoint. Children had to respond by pressing the key associated to the correct frame. Children also underwent VMIQ-2 questionnaire. Both groups performed similarly in the questionnaire and in the requested task, where they showed the same error rate. Errors mainly concerned the later frame, suggesting a similar strategy to solve the task in the two groups. The results support the view that children with CP can imagine actions similarly to their normally developed peers. This encourages the use of MI as a rehabilitative tool in children with motor impairment.

Abstract We study the superconformal index of 4d N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 USp(2N c ) and SO(N c ) SYM from a matrix model perspective. We focus on the Cardy-like limit of the index. Both in the symplectic and orthogonal case the index is dominated by a saddle point solution which we identify, reducing the calculation to a matrix integral of a pure Chern-Simons theory on the three-sphere. We further compute the subleading logarithmic corrections, which are of the order of the center of the gauge group. In the USp(2N c ) case we also study other subleading saddles of the matrix integral. Finally we discuss the case of the Leigh-Strassler fixed point with SU(N c ) gauge group, and we compute the entropy of the dual black hole from the Legendre transform of the entropy function.

In our previous research, a novel demodulation technique based on α-shape Delaunay triangulation (D-T) was developed to obtain the refractive index of the medium surrounding the optical fibre using the envelope of the cladding peaks from the spectrum of the tilted fibre Bragg grating (TFBG) sensor. This technique was demonstrated to be efficient, easy to implement, powerful, faster than the previous ones and applicable for real-time measurements. In this paper, a deep parametric analysis of the resolution, repeatability and accuracy of the D-T demodulation technique for a TFBG refractometer sensor is performed and presented. The spectral properties of the TFBG sensor as a refractometer are explored using the same demodulation technique. Specifically, supposing the use of the TFBG as a two-parameter optical sensor, the influence of the strain on the envelope area is analysed, and the measurement stability regarding the external RI is reported. Then, the cladding resonance peaks in the spectrum are observed experimentally as the TFBG undergoes partial immersion in a defined refractive index liquid. This last experiment allowed a better understanding the evolution of the TFBG transmission spectrum when the Bragg gratings were partially surrounded by a medium with a different RI.

Abstract Background The incidence of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare form of skin cancer with a poor prognosis, has increased in Italy in recent decades. Avelumab, an anti-programmed death ligand 1 monoclonal antibody, is approved for the treatment of metastatic MCC (mMCC) based on the results of the phase 2 JAVELIN Merkel 200 trial. The global avelumab expanded access program (EAP) was designed to provide compassionate use of avelumab prior to approval for patients with mMCC who had limited treatment options. We report findings from a subgroup of Italian patients enrolled in the avelumab EAP. Methods Eligible patients had mMCC and progressive disease following ≥ 1 prior line of chemotherapy or were ineligible for chemotherapy or clinical trial participation. Patients received avelumab 10 mg/kg intravenously every 2 weeks. Treating physicians were provided with an initial 3-month supply of avelumab; resupply was permitted if the patient achieved a complete response, partial response, stable disease, or other clinical benefit per physician assessment. Safety and efficacy data for the EAP were reported at the treating physician’s discretion. Results Between April 1, 2016, and September 14, 2018, 109 requests for avelumab were received from Italy, and 102 were approved. All but 1 of the approved patients had received ≥ 1 prior line of therapy. At data cutoff (March 22, 2019), 95 patients had been supplied with avelumab and response data were available for 55 patients. The objective response rate in response-evaluable patients was 29.1%, including 6 patients (10.9%) who achieved a complete response and 10 patients (18.2%) who achieved a partial response; in the total population supplied with avelumab (n = 95), the proportion who had an objective response was 16.8%. The median duration of treatment in responding patients was 9.7 months (range, 3.5–41.7 months). The most frequently reported treatment-related adverse events were infusion-related reaction (single preferred term; n = 3 [3.2%]) and pyrexia (n = 2 [2.1%]). Conclusions Results from Italian patients enrolled in the avelumab EAP are consistent with the findings of the JAVELIN Merkel 200 trial and confirm the efficacy and safety of avelumab treatment in this population.

Abstract Background Small supernumerary marker chromosomes (sSMC) are a heterogeneous group of structurally abnormal chromosomes, with an incidence of 0,044% in newborns that increases up to almost 7 times in developmentally retarded patients. sSMC from all 24 chromosome have been described, most of them originate from the group of the acrocentric, with around half deriving from the chromosome 15. Non-acrocentric sSMC are less common and, in the 30 percent of the cases, are associated with phenotypic effect. Complex sSMC consist of chromosomal material derived from more than one chromosome. Genotype–phenotype correlations in patients with sSMC are difficult to assess. Clinical features depend on factors such as its size, genetic content, the involvement of imprinted genes which may be influenced by uniparental disomy and the level of mosaicism. Trisomy of the short arm of chromosome 18 (18p) is an infrequent finding and does not appear to be associated with a specific syndrome. However, mild intellectual disability with or without other anomalies is reported in almost one-third of the patients. Case presentation Here we present clinical and molecular characterization of a new case of de novo complex sSMC consisting of the entire short arm of chromosome 18p associated with a centromere of either chromosome 13 or 21, evidenced in a 5-year-old boy during diagnostic workup for moderate intellectual disability and dysmorphisms. To date, only seven cases of isolated trisomy 18p due to a sSMC have been reported, three of which have been characterized by array CGH. In two of them the breakpoints and the size of the duplication have been described. In the manuscript we also reviewed cases reported in the DECIPHER database carrying similar duplication and also considered smaller duplications within the region of interest, in order to evaluate the presence of critical regions implicated in the pathological phenotype. Conclusions Our case provides additional information about phenotypic effects of pure trisomy 18p, confirms chromosomal microarray analysis as gold standard to characterize complex sSMC, and supplies additional elements for genetic counselling.

Abstract Background Prevention of neurodevelopmental impairment due to preterm birth is a major health challenge. Despite advanced obstetric and neonatal care, to date there are few neuroprotective molecules available. Melatonin has been shown to have anti-oxidant/anti-inflammatory effects and to reduce brain damage, mainly after hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. The planned study will be the first aiming to evaluate the capacity of melatonin to mitigate brain impairment due to premature birth. Method In our planned prospective, multicenter, double-blind, randomized vs placebo study, we will recruit, within 96 h of birth, 60 preterm newborns with a gestational age ≤ 29 weeks + 6 days; these infants will be randomly allocated to oral melatonin, 3 mg/kg/day, or placebo for 15 days. After the administration period, we will measure plasma levels of malondialdehyde, a lipid peroxidation product considered an early biological marker of melatonin treatment efficacy (primary outcome). At term-equivalent age, we will evaluate neurological status (through cerebral ultrasound, cerebral magnetic resonance imaging, vision and hearing evaluations, clinical neurological assessment, and screening for retinopathy of prematurity) as well as the incidence of bronchodysplasia and sepsis. We will also monitor neurodevelopmental outcome during the first 24 months of corrected age (using the modified Fagan Test of Infant Intelligence at 4–6 months and standardized neurological and developmental assessments at 24 months). Discussion Preterm birth survivors often present long-term neurodevelopmental sequelae, such as motor, learning, social-behavioral, and communication problems. We aim to assess the role of melatonin as a neuroprotectant during the first weeks of extrauterine life, when preterm infants are unable to produce it spontaneously. This approach is based on the supposition that its anti-oxidant mechanism could be useful in preventing neurodevelopmental impairment. Considering the short- and long-term morbidities related to preterm birth, and the financial and social costs of the care of preterm infants, both at birth and over time, we suggest that melatonin administration could lead to considerable saving of resources. This would be the first study addressing the role of melatonin in very low birth weight preterm newborns, and it could provide a basis for further studies on melatonin as a neuroprotection strategy in this vulnerable population. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04235673 . Prospectively registered on 22 January 2020.

Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are at high risk of dying from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The optimal management of AML patients with COVID-19 has not been established. Our multicenter study included 388 adult AML patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between February 2020 and October 2021. The vast majority were receiving or had received AML treatment in the preceding 3 months. COVID-19 was severe in 41.2% and critical in 21.1% of cases. The chemotherapeutic schedule was modified in 174 patients (44.8%), delayed in 68 and permanently discontinued in 106. After a median follow-up of 325 days, 180 patients (46.4%) had died; death was attributed to COVID-19 (43.3%), AML (26.1%) or to a combination of both (26.7%), whereas in 3.9% of cases the reason was unknown. Active disease, older age, and treatment discontinuation were associated with death, whereas AML treatment delay was protective. Seventy-nine patients had a simultaneous AML and COVID-19 diagnosis, with better survival when AML treatment could be delayed (80%; P

This short essay gives an overview of an academic expertise that lies at the crossroads of different historical subfields. It explains how the Department of History and Politics at the University of Bologna has introduced the author to the core tenets of classical political and international history. It also shows how other international academic environments place an emphasis on bottom-up approaches. The combination of these two approaches is ideal to explore the development of cold war's transatlantic relations through the experiences of organized social movements and assess their political effectiveness as well.

Abstract We study dualities for 3d N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 SU(N c ) SQCD at Chern-Simons level k in presence of an adjoint with polynomial superpotential. The dualities are dubbed chiral because there is a different amount of fundamentals N f and antifundamentals N a . We build a complete classification of such dualities in terms of |N f − N a | and k. The classification is obtained by studying the flow from the non-chiral case, and we corroborate our proposals by matching the three-sphere partition functions. Finally, we revisit the case of SU(N c ) SQCD without the adjoint, comparing our results with previous literature.

The triumphal arch of Caracalla in the Roman archaeological site of Volubilis dates back to 216 AD. It was built in a strategic position at the intersection of the main roads leading to the Forum, the decumanus maximus to the east and the roads from Porte à trios baies to the west, that almost certainly was the main gate to the city. The current arrangement of the monument is the result of a restoration intervention carried out in the 1930s by French restorers. Some ancient photos witness that the monument was just a ruin in 1915, when Chatelain carried out the former archaeological excavations and, as a consequence, that it was totally rebuilt. In fact, the monument suffered wide damages provoked by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, that affected also Morocco, which almost completely destroyed it. By means of the drawings made by the travelers Henry Boyde and John Windus, that retraced the monument thirty years before the earthquake, the original configuration of the monument can be observed and the timeline of events can be reconstructed. In this paper, the timeline of the seismic events that affected the triumphal arch is reconstructed and investigated by means of a structural analysis based on a rigid-block model. Finally, with the purpose of preventing future damage, the seismic vulnerability level of the construction is assessed with reference to its current configuration.

Abstract We study the recently proposed AdS 7/CFT6 dualities for a class of 6d N $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = (1, 0) theories that flow on the tensor branch to long linear quiver gauge theories. We find a precise agreement in the symmetries and in the spectrum of charged states between the 6d SCFTs and their conjectured AdS 7 duals. We also confirm a recent conjecture that a discrete S N symmetry relating the baryons in the quiver theories is in fact gauged.