59 results on '"Minissale P"'
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2. Artificial intelligence and real decisions: predictive systems and generative AI vs. emotive-cognitive legal deliberations
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Francesco Contini, Alessandra Minissale, and Stina Bergman Blix
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emotions ,empathy ,legal decision making ,predictive justice ,generative AI ,Sociology (General) ,HM401-1281 - Abstract
The use of artificial intelligence in law represents one of the biggest challenges across different legal systems. Supporters of predictive systems believe that decisionmaking could be more efficient, consistent and predictable by using AI. European legislation and legal scholars, however, identify areas where AI developments are at high risk or too dangerous to be used in judicial proceedings. In this article, we contribute to this debate by problematizing predictive systems based on previous judgments and the growing use of Generative AI in judicial proceedings. Through illustrations from real criminal cases in Italian courts and prosecution offices, we show misalignments between the functions of AI systems and the essential features of legal decision-making and identify possible legitimate usages. We argue that current predictive systems and Generative AI crunch the complexity of judicial proceedings, the dynamics of fact-finding and legal encoding. They reduce the delivery of justice to statistical connections between data or metadata, cutting off the emotive-cognitive process that lies at the core of legal decision-making.
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- 2024
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3. QCD challenges from pp to AA collisions: 4th edition
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Javira Altmann, Carlota Andres, Anton Andronic, Federico Antinori, Pietro Antonioli, Andrea Beraudo, Eugenio Berti, Livio Bianchi, Thomas Boettcher, Lorenzo Capriotti, Peter Christiansen, Jesus Guillermo Contreras Nuño, Leticia Cunqueiro Mendez, Cesar da Silva, Andrea Dainese, Hans Peter Dembinski, David Dobrigkeit Chinellato, Andrea Dubla, Mattia Faggin, Chris Flett, Vincenzo Greco, Ilia Grishmanovskii, Jack Holguin, Yuuka Kanakubo, Dong Jo Kim, Ramona Lea, Su Houng Lee, Saverio Mariani, Adam Matyja, Aleksas Mazeliauskas, Vincenzo Minissale, Andreas Morsch, Lucia Oliva, Luca Orusa, Petja Paakkinen, Daniel Pablos, Guy Paić, Tanguy Pierog, Salvatore Plumari, Francesco Prino, Andrea Rossi, Lorenzo Sestini, Peter Skands, Olga Soloveva, Francesca Soramel, Alba Soto Ontoso, Martin Spousta, Andre Govinda Stahl Leiton, Jiayin Sun, Adam Takacs, Stefano Trogolo, Rosario Turrisi, Marta Verweij, Vytautas Vislavicius, Jing Wang, Klaus Werner, Valentina Zaccolo, Mingyu Zhang, Jianhui Zhu, and Davide Zuliani
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Astrophysics ,QB460-466 ,Nuclear and particle physics. Atomic energy. Radioactivity ,QC770-798 - Abstract
Abstract This paper is a write-up of the ideas that were presented, developed and discussed at the fourth International Workshop on QCD Challenges from pp to AA, which took place in February 2023 in Padua, Italy. The goal of the workshop was to focus on some of the open questions in the field of high-energy heavy-ion physics and to stimulate the formulation of concrete suggestions for making progresses on both the experimental and theoretical sides. The paper gives a brief introduction to each topic and then summarizes the primary results.
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- 2024
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4. Multi-charmed and singled charmed hadrons from coalescence: yields and ratios in different collision systems at LHC
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Vincenzo Minissale, Salvatore Plumari, Yifeng Sun, and Vincenzo Greco
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Astrophysics ,QB460-466 ,Nuclear and particle physics. Atomic energy. Radioactivity ,QC770-798 - Abstract
Abstract We study the production of charmed and multi-charmed hadrons in ultra-relativistic Heavy Ion Collisions coupling the transport approach for charm dynamics in the medium to an hybrid hadronization model of coalescence plus fragmentation. In this paper, we mainly discuss the particle yields for single charmed and multi-charmed baryons focusing mainly on the production of $$\Xi _{cc}$$ Ξ cc and $$\Omega _{ccc}$$ Ω ccc . We provide first predictions for PbPb collision in $$0 \! - \! 10\%\ $$ 0 - 10 % centrality class and then we explore the system size dependence through KrKr , to ArAr and OO collisions, planned within the ALICE3 experiment. In these cases, a monotonic behavior for the yields emerges which can be tested in future experimental data. We found about three order of magnitude increase in the production of $$\Omega _{ccc}$$ Ω ccc in PbPb collisions compared with the yield in small collision systems like OO collisions. Furthermore, we investigate the effects on the $$\Omega _{ccc}$$ Ω ccc particle yield and spectra coming from the modification of the charm quark distribution due to the different size of the collision systems also comparing it to the case of thermalized charm distributions. These results suggest that observation on the $$\Omega _{ccc}$$ Ω ccc spectra and their evolution across system size can give novel information about the partial thermalization of the charm quark distribution as well as to its wave function width. Furthermore, we find that the $$\Omega _{ccc}$$ Ω ccc / $$D^0$$ D 0 ratio is an observable more sensitive with respect to $$\Lambda _c$$ Λ c / $$D^0$$ D 0 , this ratio is predicted to span over two order of magnitude from large to small systems.
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- 2024
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5. In-situ monitoring of tungsten oxides reduction during deuterium plasma exposure by spectroscopic ellipsometry
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F. Pappalardo, L. Rayneau, C. Martin, M. Cabie, E. Salomon, T. Angot, G. Cartry, R. Bisson, and M. Minissale
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Tungsten oxides ,Deuterium plasma ,In-situ monitoring ,Ellipsometry ,XPS ,FIB-SEM ,Nuclear engineering. Atomic power ,TK9001-9401 - Abstract
In this work, we investigate the optical properties variation of thermally grown W oxides during the exposure to low energy deuterium (D) plasma. In-situ ellipsometry in the 400–1000 nm range was coupled to ex-situ diagnostics, such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and focused ion beam coupled to scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM), to probe the evolution of chemical and morphological properties of the W oxides. First, a 70 nm thick WO3 layer was exposed to D plasma at a surface temperature of 650 K. An important reduction of the oxide layer was observed by FIB-SEM, and in-situ ellipsometry showed the evolution of the optical constants n and k of the oxide towards the ones of pure W metal. Secondly, a 300 nm thick WO3 layer was exposed to D plasma at a surface temperature below 373 K. In order to follow the oxide evolution step by step, we alternated in-situ ellipsometry and XPS surface characterization. A quite similar evolution of the optical constants was observed, in particular an increase of the extinction coefficient k in the near infrared, which was linked to a progressive reduction of the oxidation level at the surface, as seen by XPS. Interestingly, the reduction of the oxide at 373 K was below the resolution of the FIB-SEM. This observation indicates that ellipsometry in the 400–1000 nm range is able to follow in-situ the reduction of WO3 oxides by D plasma with high surface sensitivity.
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- 2024
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6. Risk of noise-induced hearing loss in the spine surgeon
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Matthew H. Meade, DO, Stephanie A. Kwan, DO, Mark E. Michael, DO, Nicholas J. Minissale, DO, Levi Buchan, DO, Jeffrey R. Gleimer, DO, Barrett I. Woods, MD, and Christopher Kepler, MD
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Noise ,Noise-induced hearing loss ,Occupational hazard ,Spine ,Decibel ,Hearing loss ,Orthopedic surgery ,RD701-811 ,Neurology. Diseases of the nervous system ,RC346-429 - Abstract
ABSTRACT: Background: Occupation-related noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) has both negative economic and quality of life implications. The risk spine surgeons undertake in regards to NIHL during operative intervention is unknown. Governing bodies, including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, have recommended exposure limits not to exceed 85 decibels (dB) over 8 hours. The purpose of this study is to characterize noise exposure to spine surgeons in the operating room (OR). Methods: Prospective collection of intraoperative recordings of spinal surgeries (cervical and thoracic/lumbar) was undertaken. Data gathered included procedure, operative duration, presence of background music, and noise information. Noise information included maximum decibel level (MDL), Peak level (LCPeak), Equivalent continuous sound pressure level, time weighted average (TWA), dose, and projected dose. Noise measurements were compared with baseline controls with and without music (empty ORs). Results: Two hundred seven noise recordings were analyzed. One hundred eighteen of those being spinal surgeries, 49 baseline recordings without music, and 40 with music. Maximum decibel level reached a maximum value of 111.5 dBA, with an average amongst surgical recordings of 103 dBA. Maximum decibel level exceeded 85 dBA in 100% of cases and was greater than 100 dBA in 78%. The maximum LCPeak recorded was 132.9 dBC with an average of 120 dBC. Furthermore, the average dose was 7.8% with an average projected dose of 26.5%. The highest dose occurred during a laminectomy at 72.9% of daily allowable noise. Maximum projected dose yielded 156% during a 3-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. Conclusions: Spine surgeons are routinely exposed to damaging noise levels (>85 dBA) during operative intervention. With spine surgeons often performing multiple surgeries a day, the cumulative risk of noise exposure cannot be ignored. The synergistic effects of continuous and impact noise places spine surgeons at risk for the development of occupation-related NIHL.
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- 2024
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7. Addition of two species to the Maltese flora: Lythrum tribracteatum Salzm. ex Spreng. (Lythraceae) and Poa maroccana Nannf. (Poaceae)
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Gianmarco Tavilla, Pietro Minissale, Leanne Camilleri, and Sandro Lanfranco
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Distribution extension ,new records ,rock pools ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
During a fieldwork in Malta in 2023, we discovered two species of plant previously unknown to the Maltese flora, Lythrum tribracteatum Salzm. ex Spreng. and Poa maroccana Nannf. Specific information on their morphology and ecology is provided.
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- 2023
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8. Spin-polarized Majorana zero modes in proximitized superconducting penta-silicene nanoribbons
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R. C. Bento Ribeiro, J. H. Correa, L. S. Ricco, I. A. Shelykh, Mucio A. Continentino, A. C. Seridonio, M. Minissale, G. Le Lay, and M. S. Figueira
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Medicine ,Science - Abstract
Abstract We theoretically propose penta-silicene nanoribbons (p-SiNRs) with induced p-wave superconductivity as a platform for the emergence of spin-polarized Majorana zero-modes (MZMs). The model explicitly considers the key ingredients of well-known Majorana hybrid nanowire setups: Rashba spin-orbit coupling, magnetic field perpendicular to the nanoribbon plane, and first nearest neighbor hopping with p-wave superconducting pairing. The energy spectrum of the system, as a function of chemical potential, reveals the existence of MZMs with a well-defined spin orientation localized at the opposite ends of both the top and bottom chains of the p-SiNR, associated with well-localized and nonoverlapping wave function profiles. Well-established experimental techniques enable the fabrication of highly ordered p-SiNRs, complemented by a thin lead film on top, responsible for inducing p-wave superconductivity through proximity effect. Moreover, the emergence of MZMs with explicit opposite spin orientations for some set of model parameters opens a new avenue for exploring quantum computing operations, which accounts for both MZMs and spin properties, as well as for new MZMs probe devices based on spin-polarized electronic transport mechanisms.
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- 2023
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9. Syntaxonomical Remarks on the Garrigues from Apulia (S Italy) and Neighboring Territories
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Valeria Tomaselli, Saverio Sciandrello, Pietro Minissale, Luigi Forte, Emanuele Costanzo, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo, Francesca Carruggio, Gaetano Pazienza, and Salvatore Brullo
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shrub vegetation ,Puglia ,S Italy ,Cisto cretici-Micromerietea julianae ,Cisto eriocephali-Ericion multiflorae ,Cytiso spinescentis-Saturejion montanae ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
In this study, the garrigues occurring in Apulia and neighboring territories (southern Italy) were surveyed in order to clarify their syntaxonomical arrangement. Many contributions previously focused on this vegetation type, often adopting different and sometimes contrasting treatments from both the nomenclature and syntaxonomical aspects. Our investigations are supported by the multivariate analysis of a dataset containing 292 phytosociological relevés, whose resulting cluster dendrogram highlights the hierarchical relationships between the examined plant communities. Overall, twenty-one associations with several sub-associations were recognized. Some of them are already known in the literature, whereas others are described here for the first time. As concerns the syntaxonomical framework, this vegetation is attributable to the class Cisto cretici-Micromerietea julianae, which in this territory is represented by the order Cisto eriocephali-Ericetalia manipuliflorae and by two alliances: Cisto eriocephali-Ericion multiflorae, grouping the more thermophilous associations usually distributed along coastlines and at low altitudes; and Cytiso spinescentis-Saturejion montanae, including the mesophilic associations occurring in mountain and sub-mountain belts.
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- 2024
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10. The Use of Drones for Cost-Effective Surveys in Natura 2000 Protected Areas: A Case Study on Monitoring Plant Diversity in Sicily (Italy)
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Gianmarco Tavilla, Alessandro Crisafulli, Pietro Minissale, Valeria Tomaselli, and Maria Adamo
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endemic species ,landscape monitoring ,Mediterranean flora ,remote sensing ,Saxifraga ,vascular flora ,Agriculture - Abstract
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, present a cost-effective solution for the swift collection of data from vast and remote areas that are otherwise difficult to access. The Mediterranean Basin, known for being a hotspot for plant biodiversity, hosts several habitats and taxa of significant naturalistic value. However, many of these areas are often inaccessible to botanists, making exploration and research challenging. The aim of this paper is to involve the utilization of drone surveys and open-source software for botanical research. Our primary goal is to show the effectiveness of these tools in the field and demonstrate their practical application in Natura 2000 sites. The protected area chosen for this research is Rocca di Novara, situated in northeastern Sicily. Thanks to our drone investigations, we were able to capture images of a mountainside that is inaccessible to humans. This allowed us to observe the habitat of some species in detail. One of the most fascinating discoveries was the reappearance of Saxifraga callosa subsp. australis, which had not been confirmed in this area for over 140 years. Using drones for botanical research can boost field research, making monitoring easier and more cost-effective over time, especially in Natura 2000 sites.
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- 2024
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11. Taxonomic and ecological remarks on Solenopsis bivonae species complex (Campanulaceae)
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Salvatore Brullo, Cristian Brullo, Salvatore Cambria, Valeria Tomaselli, Alessandro Crisafulli, Giuseppe Siracusa, Pietro Minissale, and Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo
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Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
The populations usually attributed to Solenopsis bivonae (Tineo) M.B.Crespo, Serra & A.Juan are investigated from a taxonomical and morphological viewpoint. Within this species complex, four new subspecies occurring in Sicily and Calabria are recognized, such as subsp. bivonae, subsp. madoniarum, subsp. peloritana and subsp. brutia. In addition, a new species from Cyprus described as S. meikleana and S. bacchettae from Sardinia must be included in this group. The synonymy, typification, description, seed testa morphology, chorology, ecology, illustrations, conservation status, and examined specimens for each taxon are provided. Besides, the analytical keys, distribution maps, and phytosociological arrangement regarding these taxa are given too.
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- 2023
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12. B meson production in Pb+Pb at 5.02 ATeV at LHC: Estimating the diffusion coefficient in the infinite mass limit
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Maria Lucia Sambataro, Vincenzo Minissale, Salvatore Plumari, and Vincenzo Greco
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Relativistic heavy-ion collisions ,Quark-gluon plasma ,Heavy quark transport ,Heavy flavour hadronization ,Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
In the last decade a Quasi-Particle Model (QPM) has been developed to study charm quark dynamics in ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collisions supplying a satisfactory description of the main observables for D meson and providing an estimate of the space-diffusion coefficient Ds(T) from the phenomenology. In this paper, we extend the approach to bottom quarks describing their propagation in the quark-gluon plasma within an event-by-event full Boltzmann transport approach followed by a coalescence plus fragmentation hadronization. We find that QPM approach is able to correctly predict the first available data on RAA(pT) and v2(pT) of single-electron from B decays without any parameter modification w.r.t. the charm. We show also predictions for centralities where data are not yet available for both v2(pT) and v3(pT). Moreover, we discuss the significant breaking of the expected scaling of the thermalization time τth with MQ/T, discussing the evolution with mass of Ds(T) to better assess the comparison to lQCD calculations. We find that at T=Tc charm quark Ds(T) is about a factor of 2 larger than the asymptotic value for M→∞, while bottom Ds(T) is only a 20% higher. This implies a Ds(T) which is consistent within the current uncertainty to the most recent lattice QCD calculations with dynamical quarks for M→∞.
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- 2024
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13. Event-shape engineering analysis of D meson in ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions
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Maria Lucia Sambataro, Yifeng Sun, Vincenzo Minissale, Salvatore Plumari, and Vincenzo Greco
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Astrophysics ,QB460-466 ,Nuclear and particle physics. Atomic energy. Radioactivity ,QC770-798 - Abstract
Abstract We describe the propagation of charm quarks in the quark-gluon plasma (QGP) by means of an event-by-event transport approach. In our calculations the non-perturbative interaction between heavy quarks and light partons has been taken into account through a quasi-particle approach with thermal light quark masses tuned to reproduce lQCD thermodynamics. We found that the flow observables $$v_2$$ v 2 and $$v_3$$ v 3 of D mesons are comparable with the experimental measurements for Pb + Pb collisions at 5.02 TeV in different ranges of centrality selections. The results are analyzed with event-shape engineering technique. The comparison of the anisotropic flow coefficients $$v_n$$ v n with experimental data show a quite good agreement with experimental data for different flow vector $$q_2$$ q 2 selections, which confirms the strong coupling between charm quarks and light quarks in the QCD matter. Furthermore, we present here a novel study of the event-by-event correlations between flow harmonics of D mesons and soft hadrons at LHC energy with the event-shape engineering technique that can put further constraints on heavy quark transport coefficients toward a solid comparison between the phenomenological determination and the lattice QCD calculations.
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- 2022
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14. New Alien Plant Taxa for Italy and Europe: An Update
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Carmelo Maria Musarella, Valentina Lucia Astrid Laface, Claudia Angiolini, Gianluigi Bacchetta, Enrico Bajona, Enrico Banfi, Giulio Barone, Nello Biscotti, Daniele Bonsanto, Giacomo Calvia, Salvatore Cambria, Alberto Capuano, Giuseppe Caruso, Alessandro Crisafulli, Emanuele Del Guacchio, Emilio Di Gristina, Gianniantonio Domina, Emanuele Fanfarillo, Simonetta Fascetti, Tiberio Fiaschi, Gabriele Galasso, Francesco Mascia, Giuliana Mazzacuva, Giacomo Mei, Pietro Minissale, Riccardo Motti, Enrico Vito Perrino, Rosa Maria Picone, Lorenzo Pinzani, Lina Podda, Giovanna Potenza, Leonardo Rosati, Adriano Stinca, Gianmarco Tavilla, Clizia Villano, Robert Philipp Wagensommer, and Giovanni Spampinato
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biodiversity ,biological invasions ,floristic list ,herbarium ,IAS ,Italian regions ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
Despite the wide amount of scientific contributions published on alien plant species, their diffusion dynamics, and their interactions with native taxa, it is increasingly difficult to slow down their spreading and their negative impact on habitats. Last recent years, in fact, a sharp rise in the number of new alien plant taxa introduced in Italy and Europe has been recorded. The aim of this work is to investigate most of the Italian territory in order to verify whether this alarming trend is still underway. Specimen collections and/or observations of alien plants have been performed in as many as 12 Italian regions. All the collected specimens are stored in public or private herbaria. Taxa have been identified according to the literature from the countries of origin of the investigated taxa, while the nomenclature followed the current international references. Updates on 106 taxa are reported. In particular, among 117 new records, 89 are first records, 27 are changes to status and there is 1 extinction. Seven new taxa for Italian alien flora are reported, two of which are new to Europe. The administrative regions with the highest number of records are Calabria (48), Sardegna (17) and Sicilia (15). Five of the surveyed taxa, for the first time, have been considered invasive aliens to Italian territory. The unfrequent amount of original results provided by this work, over the simple importance of data itself, proves how floristic investigation, still today, represents one of the most effective tools in broadening the current knowledge about alien taxa and their dynamics.
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- 2024
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15. Deuterium uptake, desorption and sputtering from W(110) surface covered with oxygen
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E.A. Hodille, B. Pavec, J. Denis, A. Dunand, Y. Ferro, M. Minissale, T. Angot, C. Grisolia, and R. Bisson
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plasma-wall interactions ,hydrogen ,multi-scale modelling ,Nuclear and particle physics. Atomic energy. Radioactivity ,QC770-798 - Abstract
Rate equation modelling is performed to simulate ${\mathrm{D_2}}$ and ${\mathrm{D_2}}+{\mathrm{D}_2^+}$ exposure of the ${\mathrm{W}(110)}$ surface with varying coverage of oxygen atoms (O) from the clean surface up to 0.75 monolayer of O. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculated energetics are used as inputs for the surface processes and desorption energies are optimized to best reproduce the Thermal Desorption Spectrometry (TDS) experiments obtained for ${\mathrm{D_2}}$ exposure. For the clean surface, the optimized desorption energies (1.10 eV–1.40 eV) are below the DFT ones (1.30 eV–1.50 eV). For the O covered surface, the main desorption peak is reproduced with desorption energies of 1.10 eV and 1.00 eV for 0.50 and 0.75 monolayer of O respectively. This is slightly higher than the DFT predicted desorption energies. In order to simulate satisfactorily the total retention obtained experimentally for ${\mathrm{D_2}}+{\mathrm{D}_2^+}$ exposure, a sputtering process needs to be added to the model, describing the sputtering of adsorbed species (D atoms) by the incident D ions. The impact of the sputtering process on the shape of the TDS spectra, on the total retention and on the recycling of D from the wall is discussed. In order to better characterize the sputtering process, especially its products and yields, atomistic calculations such as molecular dynamics are suggested as a next step for this study.
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- 2024
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16. Event-by-event heavy-flavour dynamics: Estimating the spatial diffusion coefficient Ds from charm to the infinite mass limit
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Minissale Vincenzo, Sambataro Maria Lucia, Plumari Salvatore, and Greco Vincenzo
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Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
Quasi-Particle Model (QPM) has been developed to study charm quark dynamics in ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collisions with good description of D mesons RAA(pT) and v2,3(pT) and leading to the evaluation of the spatial diffusion coefficient Ds(T). With an event-by-event full Boltzmann transport approach followed by a hybrid hadronization via coalescence plus fragmentation, we show RAA(pT), v2(pT) down to pT → 0 for D and B mesons. We find that QPM approach is able to correctly predict first available data on RAA(pT) and v2(pT) of single-electron from B mesons decays measured by ALICE. A significant breaking of the expected scaling of the thermalization time τth with MQ/T is found. Charm quark Ds(T) is about 50% larger than the asymptotic value for MQ → ∞, while the bottom Ds(T) is only 20% higher. In the infinite mass limit the Ds(T) is consistent with recent lQCD calculations with dynamical quarks.
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- 2024
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17. Sequencing one-dimensional Majorana materials for topological quantum computing
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Marco Minissale, Paolo Bondavalli, M S Figueira, and Guy Le Lay
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Kitaev chains ,Majorana Zero Modes ,1D platforms ,topological quantum computation ,Materials of engineering and construction. Mechanics of materials ,TA401-492 ,Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
Majorana fermions are a fascinating class of particles with unique and intriguing properties: they are their own antiparticles, as first theorized by the Italian physicist Ettore Majorana in 1937. In recent decades, research in condensed matter physics shows theoretically that in certain exotic states of matter, such as topological superconductors, pairs of Majorana fermions can emerge as bound states at defects or interfaces, known as Majorana Zero Modes (MZMs). They behave like non-local anyons and could be used as decoherence-protected qubits. After the seminal work of Kitaev (2001), one-dimensional artificial setups have been developed in line with the concept of the Kitaev chain to implement MZMs. As no definite proof has yet been widely accepted by the community, improvements in the architectures and setups have been realized, and different platforms have been devised, which could be kinds of ‘DNA’ in this rapidly evolving vivid ecosystem. Here, we sequence these ‘DNAs’ and draw perspectives for topological quantum computation.
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- 2024
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18. Deuterium retention and ammonia production from D-implanted 316 L stainless steel: insights for future fusion reactors
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T Aissou, F Ghiorghiu, M Minissale, T Angot, G De Temmerman, and R Bisson
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deuterium ,ammonia ,stainless steel ,316L ,desorption ,plasma-wall interactions ,Materials of engineering and construction. Mechanics of materials ,TA401-492 ,Chemical technology ,TP1-1185 - Abstract
We present a systematic study that quantifies deuterium (D) retention and ammonia (ND _3 ) production from 316 L stainless steel (SS316L) following the implantation of D ions in conditions similar to the ones expected in the ITER tokamak, i.e. with kinetic energy below 300 eV. Using Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD) after deuterium ion implantation at 250 eV/D, we show that deuterium retention increases linearly with the D fluence up to 10 ^21 D ^+ m ^−2 , with a retention probability of 18%. For higher D fluence, deuterium retention increases sub-linearly. Analysis of the TPD spectra evolution with varying storage time in vacuum after D implantation, shows that D retention is influenced by D diffusion into the bulk of SS316L. Subsequent to D ion implantation, we evidence the efficient production of ND _3 molecules during TPD, between 400 K and 750 K, from the nitrogen present naturally in SS316L. Up to 21% of the D release during TPD can be found in ND _3 molecules, indeed. The fraction of ND _3 in the total D release depends both on the D ion fluence and the nitrogen concentration profile in the bulk. At least 7% of the D release is found in the form of ND _3 molecules, even at a fluence of 2 × 10 ^21 D ^+ m ^−2 and for a natural N concentration bulk profile. Both N diffusion and D diffusion into the bulk appear to dictate the kinetics of ND _3 production. Our findings of efficient production of ND _3 in D-implanted austenitic 316 L stainless steel underline the need for similar studies on reduced-activation ferritic/martensitic (RAFM) steels that contain similar content of nitrogen and will be used in fusion reactor prototypes.
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- 2024
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19. Evaluating the Healing Potential of J-Plasma Scalpel-Created Surgical Incisions in Porcine and Rat Models
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Lilith Elmore, Nicholas J. Minissale, Lauren Israel, Zoe Katz, Jordan Safran, Adriana Barba, Luke Austin, Thomas P. Schaer, and Theresa A. Freeman
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cold atmospheric plasma ,surgical site infection ,periprosthetic joint infection ,plasma scalpel ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Cold atmospheric plasma devices generate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species that can be anti-microbial but also promote cell migration, differentiation, and tissue wound healing. This report investigates the healing of surgical incisions created using cold plasma generated by the J-Plasma scalpel (Precise Open handpiece, Apyx Medical, Inc.) compared to a steel scalpel in in vivo porcine and rat models. The J-Plasma scalpel is currently FDA approved for the delivery of helium plasma to cut, coagulate, and ablate soft tissue during surgical procedures. To our knowledge, this device has not been studied in creating surgical incisions but only during deeper dissection and hemostasis. External macroscopic and histologic grading by blinded reviewers revealed no significant difference in wound healing appearance or physiology in incisions created using the plasma scalpel as compared with a steel blade scalpel. Incisions created with the plasma scalpel also had superior hemostasis and a reduction in tissue and blood carryover. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histology showed collagen fibril fusion occurred as the plasma scalpel incised through the tissue, contributing to a sealing effect. In addition, when bacteria were injected into the dermis before incision, the plasma scalpel disrupted the bacterial membrane as visualized in SEM images. External macroscopic and histologic grading by blinded reviewers revealed no significant difference in wound healing appearance or physiology. Based on these results, we propose additional studies to clinically evaluate the use of cold plasma in applications requiring hemostasis or when an increased likelihood of subdermal pathogen leakage could cause surgical site infection (i.e., sites with increased hair follicles).
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- 2024
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20. New national and regional Annex I Habitat records: from #37 to #44
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Gianmarco Tavilla, Claudia Angiolini, Simonetta Bagella, Federica Bonini, Salvatore Cambria, Maria Carmela Caria, Assunta Esposito, Emanuele Fanfarillo, Valentina Ferri, Tiberio Fiaschi, Lorenzo Gianguzzi, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo, Vincenzo Ilardi, Giacomo Mei, Pietro Minissale, Giovanni Rivieccio, Saverio Sciandrello, Adriano Stinca, and Giuseppe Bazan
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Plant culture ,SB1-1110 ,Plant ecology ,QK900-989 - Abstract
In this contribution, Italian new data concerning the distribution of the Annex I Habitats 3150, 3170*, 3260, 4090, 91L0, 91M0, 9340 are reported. In detail, 20 new occurrences in Natura 2000 sites are presented and 30 new cells are added in the EEA 10 km × 10 km reference grid. The new data refer to the Italian administrative regions of Campania, Lazio, Sardinia, Sicily, Tuscany, and Umbria.
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- 2022
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21. Optical Properties of Tungsten: A Parametric Study to Characterize the Role of Roughness, Surface Composition and Temperature
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Federica Pappalardo, Francisco Romero Lairado, Cyprien Louis de Canonville, Céline Martin, Gregory Giacometti, Guillaume Serin, Eric Salomon, Thierry Angot, Laurent Gallais, Régis Bisson, and Marco Minissale
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tungsten ,roughness ,optical properties ,tungsten oxide ,ITER ,laser annealing ,Optics. Light ,QC350-467 ,Applied optics. Photonics ,TA1501-1820 - Abstract
Tungsten (W) is the material selected for the divertor exhaust of the international nuclear fusion experiment ITER. In this harsh environment, the interactions of heat loads and ion fluxes with W can induce temporary or permanent evolution in the optical properties. Poor knowledge of such evolution during a plasma operation can lead to errors in temperature measurements performed by optical diagnostics. Therefore, it is of fundamental importance to characterize possible changes in W optical properties. In this work, we studied the role of morphology and temperature on the optical response of W. The reflectivities of five W samples with different roughness values (20–100 nm) were measured during laser annealing (25–800 °C) in the visible and near-infrared domains (500–1100 nm). We observed an increase in reflectivity after annealing and we demonstrated that it was due to a change in the chemical composition of the surface, in particular a reduction in the amount of native oxide. Moreover, we show that roughness does not sensibly vary in the investigated temperature range. By highlighting the role played by roughness and surface impurities (e.g., oxide), we provide insight in how W optical properties can evolve in tokamaks where high ion fluxes, heat loads, and impurities can induce the evolution of both the morphology and surface composition of W.
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- 2022
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22. Laser Annealing of Sb2Te3 2D Layers towards Nonlinear Optical Applications
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Delphine Coiras, Richard-Nicolas Verrone, Andrea Campos, Martiane Cabié, Laurent Gallais, Marco Minissale, Julien Lumeau, Jean-Yves Natoli, and Konstantinos Iliopoulos
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chalcogenides ,nonlinear optical properties ,Z-scan ,ultrafast saturable absorption ,Optics. Light ,QC350-467 ,Applied optics. Photonics ,TA1501-1820 - Abstract
In this work, we performed laser annealing of thin Sb2Te3 films to optimize crystallization time and their nonlinear optical properties. The annealed layers were studied by electron microscopy and UV–Vis spectrophotometry. Their nonlinear optical response was investigated by nonlinear transmission and Z-scan measurements. These studies were performed by a femtosecond laser system providing 400 fs laser pulses at 1030 nm. The results were compared with previous findings based on studies of oven-annealed thin films.
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- 2022
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23. Flux dependence of helium retention in clean W(110): Experimental evidence for He self-trapping
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A. Dunand, M. Minissale, T. Angot, and R. Bisson
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Helium ,Self-trapping ,Trap-mutation ,Tungsten ,Desorption ,Plasma facing components ,Nuclear engineering. Atomic power ,TK9001-9401 - Abstract
Helium (He) retention in tungsten (W) is a concern in fusion reactors since it could be detrimental to plasma facing components performance and influence the fusion fuel balance. He being not soluble in W, it tends to agglomerate on preexisting defects (vacancy, grain boundary), but it could in theory also self-trap (be immobilized on a non-preexisting vacancy) through the emission of a vacancy/self-interstitial W pair in the vicinity of a Hen interstitial cluster. In the present study, we prepared a pure single crystal W(110) sample with a clean surface in order to evidence the self-trapping of He in the W bulk at a sample temperature of 300 K and for a constant fluence of 2.0 × 1021 He+.m−2. At a He+ kinetic energy of 130 eV and a flux of 0.3 × 1017 He+.m−2.s−1, we only observed a small He desorption peak below 600 K. Rising the ion flux to 0.7 × 1017 He+.m−2.s−1, we observed the sudden appearance of two desorption peaks at 950 K and 1700 K. For the highest flux studied in this work, 5.0 × 1017 He+.m−2.s−1, an additional desorption peak at 1800 K and a desorption shoulder at 1900 K are observed. The temperature position of these He desorption peaks are consistent with the density functional theory literature and points to the occurrence of self-trapping once the 0.7 × 1017 He+.m−2.s−1 flux is attained at 300 K and to the possible realization of trap-mutation for the flux of 5.0 × 1017 He+.m−2.s−1. The present set of results should be used to constrain the development of He retention and He bubbles growth models based on ab initio quantities.
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- 2023
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24. Midterm outcomes and survivorship of arthroscopic elbow debridement: a comparison of posttraumatic versus primary degenerative osteoarthritis
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Dennis A. DeBernardis, DO, Adam J. Santoro, DO, Nicholas J. Minissale, DO, Jacob M. Kirsch, MD, Quincy T. Cheesman, DO, Frank G. Alberta, MD, and Luke S. Austin, MD
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Level III ,Retrospective Cohort Comparison ,Prognosis Study ,Orthopedic surgery ,RD701-811 ,Diseases of the musculoskeletal system ,RC925-935 - Abstract
Background: Arthroscopic debridement is an effective means of surgical management of both degenerative osteoarthritis (DOA) and posttraumatic arthritis (PTA) of the elbow. However, the difference in the efficacy and longevity of this procedure when performed for these two distinct pathologies remains in question. The purpose of this study was to identify and compare the midterm outcomes and survivorship of arthroscopic debridement of elbow PTA and DOA. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing arthroscopic debridement of DOA and PTA of the elbow was performed. A questionnaire containing the Oxford Elbow Score, as well as questions regarding the incidence of reoperation, additional nonoperative intervention, complications, pain, and satisfaction, was given at 5 years, minimum, after surgery. The midterm survivorship of arthroscopic debridement free of reoperation for any reason, as well as the remaining outcome measurements obtained via the questionnaire and in-office evaluation, was compared between PTA and DOA cohorts. Results: Eighty patients (DOA = 36, PTA = 44) were included in this study for analysis. All 36 patients with DOA were noted to be male. Follow-up time at the date of questionnaire response was 7.9 years (range, 5.6-11.8) in the DOA cohort and 8.6 years (range, 5.7-12.7) in the PTA cohort. Reoperation rates of 5.6% and 11.4% were identified in the DOA and PTA cohorts, respectively. No statistical difference was noted in reoperation rate, survivorship, or any measured patient-reported outcomes between cohorts at the final follow-up visit. Both cohorts demonstrated a significant improvement in Visual Analog Scale pain scores (P
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- 2022
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25. Relevant habitats neglected by the Directive 92/43 EEC: the contribution of Vegetation Science for their reappraisal in Sicily
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Riccardo Guarino, Salvatore Pasta, Giuseppe Bazan, Alessandro Crisafulli, Orazio Caldarella, Gian Pietro Giusso del Galdo, Alessandro Silvestre Gristina, Vincenzo Ilardi, Antonino La Mantia, Corrado Marcenò, Pietro Minissale, Saverio Sciandrello, Leonardo Scuderi, Giovanni Spampinato, Angelo Troia, and Lorenzo Gianguzzi
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Plant culture ,SB1-1110 ,Plant ecology ,QK900-989 - Abstract
Field investigation carried out by the Sicilian botanists in the last 20 years enabled them to identify eight habitat types of high biogeographic and conservation interest, neglected by the Directive 92/43, which deserve ad hoc conservation measures. For each of these habitats, a syntaxonomic interpretation of the corresponding plant communities, their main ecological, physiognomic and syndynamic traits and a list of diagnostic species are provided. Their classification into the macrotypes listed in the Annex I of the Directive 92/43 and the respective correspondence in EUNIS habitat classification are proposed. The habitats here described integrate those already proposed by the Italian Botanical Society, with the hope of an adequate recognition at national at supranational level.
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- 2021
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26. Climate Change and Wetland Ecosystems: The Effects on Halophilous Vegetation Diversity in Il-Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk Natura 2000 Site (Malta)
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Gianmarco Tavilla, Arthur Lamoliere, James Gabarretta, Vincent Attard, Jonathan Henwood, Darrin T. Stevens, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo, Pietro Minissale, Veronica Ranno, Maria Adamo, Valeria Tomaselli, Saverio Sciandrello, and Sandro Lanfranco
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diversity indices ,drone monitoring ,Ellenberg indicator values ,habitat directive ,island ,landscape resilience ,Agriculture - Abstract
Climate change poses a fundamental threat to the wetlands. The Mediterranean basin is a biodiversity hotspot, and wetlands are important for maintaining this status. The current study evaluated the halophilous vegetation diversity of one of the most relevant Maltese wetlands, Il-Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk Natura 2000 site, also identified under the Water Framework Directive. A vegetation analysis was carried out according to the Braun–Blanquet approach. The processed dataset included both data from the literature and unpublished data. To quantify vegetation structure and diversity, a hierarchical classification (Chord distance; Ward linkage) and diversity and ecological indices were performed. Diachronic analysis of the taxonomic diversity indices and the Ellenberg indicator values were taken into account. We used an NMDS analysis to assess the ecological fingerprint of the vegetation. In addition, we provided an actual vegetation map for Il-Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk, based on drone orthophotos. We identified five EU Directive habitats in the study area (1150*, 1310, 1410, 1420, and 92D0) of which one (1150*) was reported for the first time. The ecological fingerprint of the halophilous vegetation has undergone changes over time, particularly due to increasing temperatures. In fact, the results showed that nutrients and temperature were the strongest environmental drivers of the site. The results and methodology of this study demonstrate how vegetation studies can serve as tools to improve knowledge, management actions, and landscape planning of Natura 2000 sites.
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- 2023
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27. N-Acetylcysteine for Preventing Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury: A Comprehensive Review
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Anna Licata, Maria Giovanna Minissale, Simona Stankevičiūtė, Judith Sanabria-Cabrera, Maria Isabel Lucena, Raul J Andrade, and Piero Luigi Almasio
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acetaminophen ,drug-induced liver injury ,hepatotoxicity ,N-acetyl-cysteine ,safety ,Therapeutics. Pharmacology ,RM1-950 - Abstract
Aims: N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is used as an antidote in acetaminophen (APAP) overdose to prevent and mitigate drug-induced liver injury (DILI). Our objective was to systematically review evidence of the use of NAC as a therapeutic option for APAP overdose and APAP-related DILI in order to define the optimal treatment schedule and timing to start treatment.Methods: Bibliographic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and MEDLINE) were searched for retrospective and prospective cohort studies, case series, and clinical trials. The prespecified primary outcomes were DILI-related mortality, hepatotoxicity, and adverse events (AEs).Results: In total, 34 studies of NAC usage in APAP-related DILI cases with 19,580 patients were identified, of which 2,376 patients developed hepatotoxicities. The mortality rate across different studies ranged from 0 to 52%. Large variability of NAC regimens was found, i.e., intravenous (I.V.) (100–150 mg/kg) and oral (70–140 mg/kg), and length of treatment varied—12, 24, or 48 h for I.V. regimen and 72 h for oral administration. The timing of initiation of NAC treatment showed different results in terms of occurrence of hepatotoxicity and mortality; if started within 8 h and no more than 24 h from APAP overdose, either intravenously or orally, NAC administration was efficacious in terms of mortality. The most frequent AEs reported were anaphylactic reactions, followed by cutaneous AEs for the IV route and intestinal AEs for the oral one.Conclusion: NAC improves hepatotoxicity and reduces mortality. Timing of treatment, ranging from 8 to 24 h from APAP overdose, regardless of the regimen or route of administration, is important to prevent or minimize liver damage, particularly in children and in elderly and obese patients.
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- 2022
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28. Validation of associations for the temporary ponds of the class Isoeto-Nanojuncetea in Puglia (southern Italy)
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Valeria Tomaselli, Leonardo Beccarisi, Salvatore Cambria, Luigi Forte, Pietro Minissale, Saverio Sciandrello, Giuseppe Veronico, and Salvatore Brullo
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association ,ICPN ,nomenclature ,syntaxonomy ,vegetation ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
This paper presents the validation of 16 new associations, described in a previous contribution, for the temporary ponds of the class Isoeto-Nanojuncetea in Apulia (southern Italy).
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- 2022
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29. Past, present, and future geographic range of the relict Mediterranean and Macaronesian Juniperus phoenicea complex
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Montserrat Salvà‐Catarineu, Angel Romo, Małgorzata Mazur, Monika Zielińska, Pietro Minissale, Ali A. Dönmez, Krystyna Boratyńska, and Adam Boratyński
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biodiversity ,biogeography ,climate change ,Juniperus canariensis ,Juniperus phoenicea ,Juniperus turbinata ,Ecology ,QH540-549.5 - Abstract
Abstract Aim The aim of this study is to model the past, current, and future distribution of J. phoenicea s.s., J. turbinata, and J. canariensis, based on bioclimatic variables using a maximum entropy model (Maxent) in the Mediterranean and Macaronesian regions. Location Mediterranean and Macaronesian. Taxon Cupressaceae, Juniperus. Methods Data on the occurrence of the J. phoenicea complex were obtained from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF.org), the literature, herbaria, and the authors’ field notes. Bioclimatic variables were obtained from the WorldClim database and Paleoclim. The climate data related to species localities were used for predictions of niches by implementation of Maxent, and the model was evaluated with ENMeval. Results The potential niches of Juniperus phoenicea during the Last Interglacial period (LIG), Last Glacial Maximum climate (LGM), and Mid‐Holocene (MH) covered 30%, 10%, and almost 100%, respectively, of the current potential niche. Climate warming may reduce potential niches by 30% in RCP2.6 and by 90% in RCP8.5. The potential niches of Juniperus turbinata had a broad circum‐Mediterranean and Canarian distribution during the LIG and the MH; its distribution extended during the LGM when it was found in more areas than at present. The predicted warming in scenarios RCP2.6 and RCP8.5 could reduce the current potential niche by 30% and 50%, respectively. The model did not find suitable niches for J. canariensis during the LIG and the LGM, but during the MH its potential niche was 30% larger than at present. The climate warming scenario RCP2.6 indicates a reduction in the potential niche by 30%, while RCP8.5 so indicates a reduction of almost 60%. Main conclusions This research can provide information for increasing the protection of the juniper forest and for counteracting the phenomenon of local extinctions caused by anthropic pressure and climate changes.
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- 2021
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30. New Data on Native and Alien Vascular Flora of Sicily (Italy): New Findings and Updates
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Salvatore Cambria, Dario Azzaro, Orazio Caldarella, Michele Aleo, Giuseppe Bazan, Riccardo Guarino, Giancarlo Torre, Antonia Egidia Cristaudo, Vincenzo Ilardi, Alfonso La Rosa, Valentina Lucia Astrid Laface, Fabio Luchino, Francesco Mascia, Pietro Minissale, Saverio Sciandrello, Luca Tosetto, and Gianmarco Tavilla
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mediterranean flora ,biodiversity records ,distribution range ,exotic species ,floristic records ,invasive plants ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
In this paper, based on fieldwork and herbaria surveys, new data concerning the presence of 32 native and alien vascular species for Sicily (Italy) are provided. Among the native species, the occurrence of the following taxa is reported for the first time or confirmed after many decades of non-observation: Aira multiculmis, Arum maculatum, Carex flacca subsp. flacca, Mentha longifolia, Oxybasis chenopodioides, Najas minor and Xiphion junceum. Furthermore, we document the presence of three native species (Cornus mas, Juncus foliosus and Limonium avei) that, despite being repeatedly observed in Sicily and reported in the literature, are inexplicably omitted by the most recent authoritative checklists regarding the flora of Italy. Finally, fifteen alien species new to Sicily (including one new to Europe, i.e., Pyrus betulifolia) are reported and seven poorly documented allochthonous taxa are confirmed for the island, and for two of them, a status change is proposed. These new or confirmed records allow us to better define the European and national distribution of the targeted taxa and offer new insights on the native and alien flora of Sicily.
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- 2023
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31. A first checklist of the alien-dominated vegetation in Italy
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Daniele Viciani, Marisa Vidali, Daniela Gigante, Rossano Bolpagni, Mariacristina Villani, Alicia Teresa Rosario Acosta, Michele Adorni, Michele Aleffi, Marina Allegrezza, Claudia Angiolini, Silvia Assini, Simonetta Bagella, Gianmaria Bonari, Maurizio Bovio, Francesco Bracco, Giuseppe Brundu, Gabriella Buffa, Marco Caccianiga, Lucilla Carnevali, Simona Ceschin, Giampiero Ciaschetti, Annalena Cogoni, Valter Di Cecco, Bruno Foggi, Anna Rita Frattaroli, Piero Genovesi, Rodolfo Gentili, Lorenzo Lazzaro, Michele Lonati, Fernando Lucchese, Andrea Mainetti, Mauro Mariotti, Pietro Minissale, Bruno Paura, Mauro Pellizzari, Enrico Vito Perrino, Gianfranco Pirone, Laura Poggio, Livio Poldini, Silvia Poponessi, Irene Prisco, Filippo Prosser, Marta Puglisi, Leonardo Rosati, Alberto Selvaggi, Lucio Sottovia, Giovanni Spampinato, Angela Stanisci, Adriano Stinca, Roberto Venanzoni, and Lorenzo Lastrucci
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Plant culture ,SB1-1110 ,Plant ecology ,QK900-989 - Abstract
This study provides a first step toward the knowledge of the alien-dominated and co-dominated plant communities present in Italy. The first ever checklist of the alien phytocoenoses described or reported in literature for the Italian territory has been compiled, produced by data-mining in national and local thematic literature. The resulting vegetation-type draft-list has been checked in the light of the most recent syntaxonomic documentation and updated with regards to syntaxonomy and nomenclature, with special reference to the frame proposed in the Italian Vegetation Prodrome. The list includes 27 vascular and one bryophyte vegetation classes, hosting 194 low rank alien-dominated syntaxa. The different vegetation types detected for each syntaxonomic class and macro-vegetation group, defined by physiognomical and ecological attributes, are discussed.
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- 2020
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32. Phytosociological research on temporary ponds in Apulia (southern Italy)
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Valeria Tomaselli, Leonardo Beccarisi, Salvatore Brullo, Salvatore Cambria, Luigi Forte, Pietro Minissale, and Giuseppe Veronico
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apulia ,flora ,isoeto-nanojuncetea ,italy ,mediterranean temporary ponds ,multivariate analysis ,phytosociology ,solenopsis ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
The ephemeral hygrophilous vegetation occurring in the temporary ponds of Apulia (southern Italy) weres studied following the phytosociological approach. On the base of 153 phytosociological relevés carried out during the period 2015-2018, 19 associations were identified, of which 16 described for the first time. All the associations belong to the Isoeto-Nanojuncetea class. The surveyed associations can be arranged in two orders, such as Isoetetalia, including those with a winter-spring cycle and Nanocyperetalia, regarding those with a summertime cycle. The identified association has been examined in detail, and for each one, we provided a phytosociological table. The communities belonging to the Isoetetalia are 17 and arranged in four alliances (Isoetion, Preslion cervinae, Cicendio filiformis-Solenopsion laurentiae, Agrostion salmanticae); instead, those ones of Nanocyperetalia are two both included in the Verbenion supinae. In order to highlight the relationships among the associations, all the relevés used for this investigation are processed. Overall, this analysis confirms the autonomy of the associations, grouping them according to the syntaxonomic arrangement proposed by the authors. Taxonomic investigations on the flora occurring in these habitats allowed the detection of two new subspecies of Solenopsis laurentia, both with a different autoecology.
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- 2020
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33. Heavy-flavor anisotropic flow at RHIC and LHC energies within a full transport approach
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Oliva Lucia, Sambataro Maria Lucia, Sun Yifeng, Minissale Vincenzo, Plumari Salvatore, and Greco Vincenzo
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Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
The propagation of heavy quarks (HQs) in the quark-gluon plasma (QGP) is described by means of a full Boltzmann transport approach. The nonperturbative dynamics and the interaction between HQs and the bulk is taken into account by means of a Quasi-Particle Model. Including the intense electromagnetic and vortical fields, we discuss their impact on the directed flow of neutral D mesons at RHIC energy, clarifying the role of this observable in giving information on QGP transport properties. We also show a novel study of the correlations between different flow coefficients of D mesons and soft hadrons at LHC energy within a coalescence plus fragmentation hadronization scheme and including event-by-event initial state fluctuations. This investigations can put further constraints on HQ transport coefficients towards a solid determination in comparison to the lattice QCD calculations.
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- 2023
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34. Coalescence plus fragmentation approach for the hadronization mechanism of heavy hadrons from AA to pp collisions
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Minissale Vincenzo, Plumari Salvatore, and Greco Vincenzo
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Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
One of the present challenge for the theoretical understanding of heavy-quark hadronization is represented by the description of the measurements of heavy hadron production in pp, pA and AA collisions from RHIC to top LHC energies. The Λc/D0 ratio observed in AA collisions has a value of the order of the unity, and experimental measurements in pp collisions at both √S = 5.02 TeVs=5.02 TeV and √S = 13 TeVs=13 TeV have shown ratios for charm baryons Λc,Ξc0Λc, Ξc0 and Ωc0Ωc0 respect to D0 meson larger than that measured and expected in e+e−, ep collisions. We present an hadronization mechanism based on the coalescence and fragmentation processes, and the results obtained in AA collisions for D0 and Λc. related baryon to meson ratios at RHIC and LHC. We present moreover results obtained for the charmed hadron production in pp collisions at LHC energies assuming the formation of an hot QCD matter at finite temperature.We calculate the heavy baryon/meson ratio and the pT spectra of charmed hadrons D0. Λc0Λc+ and the recently measured Ξc baryon, finding an enhancement in comparison with the ratio observed for e+e−, ep collisions; with this approach we also predict a significant production of Qc.
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- 2023
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35. The Renaissance and Golden Age of Epitaxial Dry Germanene
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Marco Minissale, Eric Salomon, Federica Pappalardo, Céline Martin, Matthias Muntwiler, Thierry Angot, and Guy Le Lay
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germanene ,dry epitaxy ,metal ,2D materials ,Xenes ,nanoelectronics ,Crystallography ,QD901-999 - Abstract
Germanene, as an artificial graphene-like near room temperature topological insulator, compatible with ubiquitous silicon technology, is potentially the most promising artificial Xene for ultra-scale nanoelectronics. Here, we follow its emergence and development when prepared in situ under ultra-high vacuum in clean and controlled conditions by dry epitaxy on prominent metal surfaces (e.g., aluminum, silver, gold). We describe its predicted electronic properties and its birth in 2014, even if it was just a renaissance, as it was only understood after 51 years after an undeciphered birth certificate lost in oblivion. We emphasize the lifting of germanene flakes from an aluminum template with the tip of a scanning tunneling microscope, and their repositioning to form bilayer germanene with Bernal stacking. Finally, we discuss the growth of monolayer germanene in a single phase harboring Dirac fermions, following a bottom-up synthesis strategy by segregation on a gold thin film in epitaxy on a germanium support.
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- 2023
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36. Alnus glutinosa Riparian Woodlands of Italy and Corsica: Phytosociological Classification and Floristic Diversity
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Saverio Sciandrello, Claudia Angiolini, Gianluigi Bacchetta, Maurizio Cutini, Jeremy Dumoulin, Mauro Fois, Antonio Gabellini, Matilde Gennai, Lorenzo Gianguzzi, Marco Landi, Pietro Minissale, Christophe Panaïotis, Marta Puglisi, Giovanni Spampinato, Gianmarco Tavilla, Valeria Tomaselli, Daniele Viciani, and Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo
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alder ,hygrophilous communities ,phytosociology ,riparian vegetation ,syntaxonomy ,Agriculture - Abstract
A comparative analysis of the riparian vegetation dominated by Alnus glutinosa in Italy and Tyrrhenian islands, based on literature data and unpublished relevés, is presented. A total of 456 phytosociological relevés were processed. For the definition of plant communities and alliances, hierarchical clustering was performed by using Bray-Curtis coefficient and Detrended Correspondence Analysis ordination methods. Identification of diagnostic species of the vegetation units was performed by means of the phi fidelity index. Quantum GIS software version 3.6 was used for the interpolation of the bioclimatic variables and A. glutinosa communities. Overall, a total of 18 A. glutinosa-riparian wood communities were distinguished for Italy and Tyrrhenian islands, of which two new associations and one new subassassociation are described. The classification of the relevés showed two main vegetation groups: the first one including the plant communities of the Osmundo-Alnion alliance, and the other including the vegetation of the Ligustro vulgaris-Alnion glutinosae alliance. This latest includes the riparian meso-thermophilous communities of central and northern Italy. Within the Osmundo-Alnion alliance, two subgroups can be recognized: the first one includes the thermophilous communities of the Hyperico hircini-Alnenion glutinosae sub-alliance, mainly spread in the Tyrrhenian islands, while the second group includes the mesophilous communities attributed to the new suballiance Struthioptero-Alnenion glutinosae, widespread in central Italy and the Corsican mountains. The present paper provides the first comprehensive and exhaustive scheme of the A. glutinosa riparian woodlands diversity in Italy and Corsica.
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- 2022
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37. Ecological Features and Conservation of Urtica rupestris Guss. (Urticaceae): A Narrow Endemic Species of Sicily
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Saverio Sciandrello, Salvatore Cambria, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo, Pietro Minissale, Marta Puglisi, Gianmarco Tavilla, and Valeria Tomaselli
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Adiantetea capilli-veneris ,conservation ,demographic analysis ,ecology ,IUCN ,plant conservation ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
The conservation actions of endangered plant species require a clear knowledge of their habitats. Urtica rupestris Guss. (Urticaceae) is a rare endemic plant species occurring on shady cliffs in the southern-eastern part of Sicily. In the last century, the extreme anthropogenic alterations of Hyblaean plateau have caused the continuous and unrestrained fragmentation of natural habitats and consequently the reduction and disappearance of some plant species. A total of 52 vegetation plots, of which 34 are unpublished, were analyzed in order to characterize the floristic composition of the U. rupestris community. All the relevés were classified using classification and ordination methods. The species is mainly linked to shady and wet rock habitats, and only secondarily colonizes the undergrowth shrubs. According to IUCN criteria, we propose a new risk status for this species and the establishment of a new habitat (92/43CEE) for correct long-term conservation. Finally, a new association, Urtico rupestris-Adiantetum capilli-veneris, which falls within the Polysticho setiferi-Phyllitidion scolopendrii alliance (Adiantetea capilli-veneris class), was described. This study can provide useful information for the management and conservation of U. rupestris.
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- 2022
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38. Charm hadrons in pp collisions at LHC energy within a coalescence plus fragmentation approach
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Vincenzo Minissale, Salvatore Plumari, and Vincenzo Greco
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Relativistic heavy-ion collisions ,Quark-gluon plasma ,Heavy quark transport ,Heavy flavor hadronization ,Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
The recent experimental measurements on pp collisions at s=5.02TeV have shown a very large production of heavy baryons corresponding to a Λc/D0 ratio of about 0.5. This ratio is about one order of magnitude larger than what measured in e+e−, ep collisions, and is larger of about a factor two respect to the forward rapidity ratio in pp collisions at LHC. We apply for the first time to pp collisions a quark coalescence plus fragmentation approach developed for AA collisions, assuming the formation of Hot QCD matter at finite temperature, which was able to correctly predict a Λc/D∼O(1) in AA collisions at RHIC energy. We calculate the heavy baryon/meson ratio and the pT spectra of charmed hadrons with and without strangeness content: D0, Ds, Λc+, Ξc and Ωc in pp collisions at top LHC energies, finding a satisfactory result for the measured Λc+/D0 and the Ξc/D0. At variance with other approaches a coalescence approach predicts also a significant production of Ωc such that Ωc/D0∼O(10−1).
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- 2021
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39. The Plant Communities of the Class Isoëto-Nanojuncetea in Sicily
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Salvatore Brullo, Cristian Brullo, Saverio Sciandrello, Gianmarco Tavilla, Salvatore Cambria, Valeria Tomaselli, Vincenzo Ilardi, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo, and Pietro Minissale
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Isoëto-Nanojuncetea class ,temporary ponds ,Sicily ,wetlands ,Habitat Directive ,phytosociology ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
A syntaxonomical revision of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea class for the Sicilian territory is provided. This syntaxon gathers the ephemeral herbaceous hygrophilous plant communities linked to periodically submerged soils, widely distributed in the European, circum-Mediterranean and Macaronesian territories. Within this class, two orders are recognized, lsoëtetalia, with a prevalently Mediterranean distribution, and Nanocyperetalia chiefly occurring in the central-European and Atlantic territories, with scattered and marginal occurrence in the Mediterranean area. The order Isoëtetalia in Sicily is represented by four alliances, i.e., Isoëtion, Preslion cervinae, Cicendio-Solenopsion laurentiae and Agrostion salmanticae, while within Nanocyperetalia three alliances can be recognized, namely Nanocyperion, Verbenion supinae and Lythrion tribracteati. Overall, 32 plant communities are recognized, 11 of which are described for the first time. Each higher rank syntaxa and related associations are examined from a nomenclatural, floristic, ecological and chorological point of view. In particular, the associations were processed using cluster analysis in order to highlight the correlations between them. Regarding the floristic aspects, a checklist of the species occurring in the phytosociological relevés is provided, as well as a new combination concerning Solenopsis gasparrinii, a critical species of the Sicilian flora, is proposed.
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- 2022
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40. Vascular plant species diversity of Mt. Etna (Sicily): endemicity, insularity and spatial patterns along the altitudinal gradient of the highest active volcano in Europe
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Saverio Sciandrello, Pietro Minissale, and Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo
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Diversity ,Elevation gradient ,Endemic flora ,Hot spot analysis ,Isolation ,Mediterranean endemic flora ,Medicine ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Background Altitudinal variation in vascular plant richness and endemism is crucial for the conservation of biodiversity. Territories featured by a high species richness may have a low number of endemic species, but not necessarily in a coherent pattern. The main aim of our research is to perform an in-depth survey on the distribution patterns of vascular plant species richness and endemism along the elevation gradient of Mt. Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Methods We used all the available data (literature, herbarium and seed collections), plus hundreds of original (G Giusso, P Minissale, S Sciandrello, pers. obs., 2010–2020) on the occurrence of the Etna plant species. Mt. Etna (highest peak at 3,328 mt a.s.l.) was divided into 33 belts 100 m wide and the species richness of each altitudinal range was calculated as the total number of species per interval. In order to identify areas with high plant conservation priority, 29 narrow endemic species (EE) were investigated through hot spot analysis using the “Optimized Hot Spot Analysis” tool available in the ESRI ArcGIS software package. Results Overall against a floristic richness of about 1,055 taxa, 92 taxa are endemic, of which 29 taxa are exclusive (EE) of Mt. Etna, 27 endemic of Sicily (ES) and 35 taxa endemic of Italy (EI). Plant species richness slowly grows up to 1,000 m, then decreases with increasing altitude, while endemic richness shows an increasing percentage incidence along the altitudinal gradient (attributed to the increased isolation of higher elevation). The highest endemic richness is recorded from 2,000 up to 2,800 m a.s.l., while the highest narrow endemic richness (EE) ranges from 2,500 up to 2,800 m a.s.l. Life-form patterns clearly change along altitudinal gradient. In regard to the life-form of the endemics, the most represented are the hemicryptophytes, annual plants (therophytes) are prevailing at lower altitudes and show a decreasing trend with increasing elevation, while chamaephytes are featured by an increasing trend up to 3,100 m of altitude. Furthermore, the results of the hotspot analysis emphasize the high plant conservation priority areas localized in oro-mediterranean (1,800–2,400 m s.l.m.) and cryo-mediterranean (2,400–2,800 m) bioclimatic belts, in correspondence of the oldest substrates of the volcano. Conclusions High plant speciation rate caused by increasing isolation with elevation is the most plausible explanation for the largest active volcano in Europe. The high degree of endemic species on Mt. Etna is linked to its geographical, geological and climatic isolation, all important drivers of speciation acting on the population gene flows. The hot spot map obtained represents a useful support for help environmental decision makers to identify priority areas for plant conservation.
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- 2020
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41. Heavy - light flavor correlations of anisotropic flows at LHC energies within event-by-event transport approach
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Salvatore Plumari, Gabriele Coci, Vincenzo Minissale, Santosh K. Das, Yifeng Sun, and Vincenzo Greco
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Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
The heavy quarks (HQs) are a unique probe of the hot QCD matter properties and their dynamics are coupled to the locally thermalized expanding quark gluon plasma. We present here a novel study of the event by event correlations between light and heavy flavor flow harmonics at LHC energy within a transport approach. Interaction between heavy quarks and light quarks have been taken into account to explore the impact of different temperature dependence for transport coefficients Ds and Γ. Our study indicates that vnheavy−vnlight correlation and the relative fluctuations of anisotropic flows, σvn/〈vn〉, are novel observables to understand the heavy quark-bulk interaction and are sensitive to the temperature dependence even to moderate differences of Ds(T), or Γ(T). Hence, the comparison of such new HQ observables to upcoming experimental data at both RHIC and LHC energies can put further constraints on heavy quark transport coefficients and in particular on its temperature dependence toward a solid comparison between phenomenological determination and lattice QCD calculations.
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- 2020
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42. Viewing Landscapes Is More Stimulating Than Scrambled Images After a Stressor: A Cross-disciplinary Approach
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Mikaela Law, Gregory Minissale, Anthony Lambert, Urs M. Nater, Nadine Skoluda, Nathan Ryckman, Lenore Tahara-Eckl, Martina Bandzo, and Elizabeth Broadbent
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nature ,artwork ,stress ,fatigue ,cortisol ,pupil size ,Psychology ,BF1-990 - Abstract
Research has demonstrated that nature is beneficial for many aspects of one’s health. This pilot study aimed to investigate whether viewing landscape artworks, as a form of representational nature, could improve psychological and physiological recovery from a laboratory stressor. A sample of 30 participants was randomized to one of two conditions: landscape and scrambled. After a laboratory stress task, participants in the landscape condition viewed a series of landscape paintings for 30 min; participants in the scrambled condition viewed digitally scrambled versions of these artworks as a control condition. Pupil size was measured while viewing the images using an eye tracker. Affect, drowsiness and fatigue, and the salivary stress biomarkers, cortisol, and alpha-amylase were measured at baseline, after the stressor, and after the artwork viewing period. After the viewing period, the scrambled condition had increased reports of low negative affect (which contains the variables of sleepy, dull, and sluggish) (p = 0.045, ηp2 = 0.12) and increased reports of drowsiness (p = 0.038, ηp2 = 0.12). Salivary cortisol levels decreased more rapidly while viewing the scrambled images compared to the landscape artworks (p = 0.027, ηp2 = 0.62). Lastly, pupil size while viewing the landscape artworks was larger than when viewing a blank screen (p = 0.025, ηp2 = 0.33), an effect not seen in the scrambled condition. This pilot study suggests that viewing landscape artworks was more stimulating and reduced drowsiness after stress when compared to viewing scrambled images.
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- 2020
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43. Charm and Bottom quarks dynamics in heavy-ion collisions: RAA, anisotropic flows vn and their correlations to the bulk
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Sambataro Maria Lucia, Plumari Salvatore, Sun Yifeng, Minissale Vincenzo, and Greco Vincenzo
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Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
We describe the propagation of heavy quarks (HQs), charm and bottom, in the quark-gluon plasma (QGP) by means of a full Boltzmann transport approach including event-by-event fluctuations within a coalescence plus fragmentation hadronization. The non-perturbative dynamics of the interaction between HQs and plasma particles have been taken into account through a Quasi-Particle Model (QPM). We show that the resulting charm in-medium evolution is able to correctly predict simultaneously not only the experimental data for the average D-mesons RAA(pT) and v2,3(pT) at LHC energies but also the extension of the analysis to the event-shape engineeering tecnique that classify events according to magnitude of the second-order harmonic reduced flow vector q2. In the same scheme we show predictions for RAA(pT) of electrons from semi-leptonic B-mesons decays at top LHC energies. Our results entail a determination of Ds which is consistent with the lattice QCD calculations.
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- 2022
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44. Checklist of gypsophilous vascular flora in Italy
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Carmelo Maria Musarella, Antonio Jesús Mendoza-Fernández, Juan Francisco Mota, Alessandro Alessandrini, Gianluigi Bacchetta, Salvatore Brullo, Orazio Caldarella, Giampiero Ciaschetti, Fabio Conti, Luciano Di Martino, Amedeo Falci, Lorenzo Gianguzzi, Riccardo Guarino, Aurelio Manzi, Pietro Minissale, Sergio Montanari, Salvatore Pasta, Lorenzo Peruzzi, Lina Podda, Saverio Sciandrello, Leonardo Scuderi, Angelo Troia, and Giovanni Spampinato
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Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
Our understanding of the richness and uniqueness of the flora growing on gypsum substrates in Italy has grown significantly since the 19th century and, even today, new plant species are still being discovered. However, the plants and plant communities, growing on gypsum substrates in Italy, are still a relatively unknown subject. The main aim of this paper was to elaborate a checklist of the Italian gypsophilous flora, to increase knowledge about this peculiar flora and for which conservation efforts need to be addressed. Through a structured group communication process of experts (application of the Delphi technique), a remarkable number of experienced Italian botanists have joined together to select focal plant species linked to gypsum substrates. From the results obtained, 31 plant species behave as absolute or preferent taxa (gypsophytes and gypsoclines) and form the ‘core’ Italian gypsophilous flora. The most abundant life forms were chamaephytes and hemicryptophytes, belonging to Poaceae and Brassicaceae; as for chorotypes, the most represented are Mediterranean and narrow endemics. By improving on previously available information about the flora with a clear preference for gypsum in Italy, this undertaking represents an important contribution to the knowledge of a habitat which is today considered a priority for conservation.
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- 2018
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45. Charmed hadrons from coalescence plus fragmentation in relativistic nucleus-nucleus collisions at RHIC and LHC
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S. Plumari, V. Minissale, S. K. Das, G. Coci, and V. Greco
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Astrophysics ,QB460-466 ,Nuclear and particle physics. Atomic energy. Radioactivity ,QC770-798 - Abstract
Abstract In a coalescence plus fragmentation approach we calculate the heavy baryon/meson ratio and the $$p_T$$ pT spectra of charmed hadrons $$D^{0}$$ D0 , $$D_{s}$$ Ds and $$\varLambda _{c}^{+}$$ Λc+ in a wide range of transverse momentum from low $$p_T$$ pT up to about 10 GeV and discuss their ratios from RHIC to LHC energies without any change of the coalescence parameters. We have included the contribution from decays of heavy hadron resonances and also the one due to fragmentation of heavy quarks which do not undergo the coalescence process. The coalescence process is tuned to have all charm quarks hadronizing in the $$p_T\rightarrow 0$$ pT→0 limit and at finite $$p_T$$ pT charm quarks not undergoing coalescence are hadronized by independent fragmentation. The $$p_T$$ pT dependence of the baryon/meson ratios are found to be sensitive to the masses of coalescing quarks, in particular the $$\varLambda _{c}/D^{0}$$ Λc/D0 can reach values of about $$\mathrm 1\div 1.5 $$ 1÷1.5 at $$p_T \approx \, 3$$ pT≈3 GeV, or larger, similarly to the light baryon/meson ratio like $$p/\pi $$ p/π and $$\varLambda /K$$ Λ/K , however a marked difference is a quite weak $$p_T$$ pT dependence with respect to the light case, such that a larger value at intermediate $$p_T$$ pT implies a relatively large value also for the integrated yields. A comparison with other coalescence model and with the prediction of thermal model is discussed.
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- 2018
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46. Experimental Analysis of ViLTE Service
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Christian Callegari, Rosario Giuseppe Garroppo, Stefano Giordano, Calogero Carlo Labrozzo, Gregorio Procissi, Giovanni Minissale, and Simone Topazzi
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Video over LTE (ViLTE) ,quality of experience (QoE) ,LTE ,packet loss (PL) ,packet delay variation (PDV) ,Electrical engineering. Electronics. Nuclear engineering ,TK1-9971 - Abstract
Long-term evolution (LTE) is a broadband wireless cellular system currently available in about 200 countries. From the mobile network operator point of view, one of the most appealing characteristics of LTE is the possibility of providing the users with mobile broadband services like voice over LTE and video over LTE (ViLTE), with strict quality of service (QoS) guarantees. The success of such services, which usually require a subscription fee, is obviously tightly bound to the users' quality of experience (QoE), that must be significantly better than the quality perceived in case of free services. This paper attempts to evaluate the perceived quality of the ViLTE service. In more detail, we present the results of an experimental test-bed realised at one of the most popular italian MNO, aimed at evaluating the impact of several network layer QoS parameters on the QoE of the ViLTE service.
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- 2018
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47. Unexpected Discovery of Thelypteris palustris (Thelypteridaceae) in Sicily (Italy): Morphological, Ecological Analysis and Habitat Characterization
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Saverio Sciandrello, Salvatore Cambria, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo, Gianmarco Tavilla, and Pietro Minissale
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distribution ,ecology ,relic fern ,Mediterranean wetlands ,conservation status ,pteridophytes ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
Thelypteris palustris Schott (Thelypteridaceae), known as “marsh fern”, is infrequent in the Mediterranean area. The occurrence of this species is known for almost all the Italian regions (except for Sardinia and Sicily), but with rare and declining populations. During floristic fieldwork on the Sicilian wetlands, a new unknown population was found. The aim of this paper is to analyze the morphological traits of the species, as well as its ecological features and the floristic composition of the plant communities where it lives. According to IUCN guidelines, here we provide the regional assessment (Sicily) of T. palustris. To analyze its morphological features, many living plants were examined, with particular attention to the spore structure. A total of 179 plots (110 species) and 34 pools were sampled. Our results highlight the relic character of the species which is at the southernmost border of its distribution range. The micro-morphological investigations on the spores show that the Sicilian population belongs to the subsp. palustris. The floristic analysis confirms the clear dominance of perennial temperate-cold zones Eurasian taxa. Finally, a new association, Thelypterido palustris-Caricetum paniculatae, within the Caricion gracilis alliance (Phragmito-Magnocaricetea class) is described.
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- 2021
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48. Gli esordi politici di Filippo Cordova e il parlamento siciliano del 1848
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Francesca Minissale
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Anthropology ,GN1-890 ,History (General) ,D1-2009 - Published
- 2017
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49. Floristic and Vegetation Changes on a Small Mediterranean Island over the Last Century
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Saverio Sciandrello, Salvatore Cambria, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo, Riccardo Guarino, Pietro Minissale, Salvatore Pasta, Gianmarco Tavilla, and Antonia Cristaudo
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landscape dynamics ,turnover ,nature conservation ,diachronic analysis ,vegetation ,Mediterranean islets ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
A synthetic and updated overview about the vascular flora and vegetation of the Island of Capo Passero (SE-Sicily) is provided. These data issue from two series of field surveys—the first carried out between 1997 and 2000, and the second between 2005 and 2019 and mostly focused on refining and implementing vegetation data. The current islet’s flora consists of 269 taxa, of which 149 (58%) are annual plants. The Mediterranean species are largely prevailing, 108 (40%) of which have a strictly Mediterranean biogeographical status. The comparison with a species list published in 1919 and updated in 1957 suggest that, despite the overall prevalence of anemochorous taxa, the vertebrate fauna represents an important vector for the plant colonization of the island, while the immigration of myrmechocorous taxa does not compensate the extinction rate. As many as 202 phytosociological relevés, 191 of which issue from original recent field surveys, enabled identifying 12 different plant communities. The comparison with a vegetation map published in 1965 suggests a strong reduction in dune habitats (2120 and 2210 according to EU ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43), as well as a deep disruption in the succession typical of the local psammophilous vegetation series. In order to preserve rare, endangered and protected plant species (such as Aeluropus lagopoides, Cichorium spinosum, Limonium hyblaeum, L. syracusanum, Poterium spinosum, Senecio pygmaeus and Spergularia heldreichii) and to stop the ongoing habitat degradation, urgent and effective conservation measures should be adopted for this tiny, yet precious islet.
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- 2021
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50. An Attempt to Assess Recovery/Recrystallization Kinetics in Tungsten at High Temperature Using Statistical Nanoindentation Analysis
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Liz Karanja, Matthieu Lenci, David Piot, Claire Maurice, Alan Durif, Marianne Richou, Laurent Gallais, Marco Minissale, and Guillaume Kermouche
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recrystallization ,recovery ,annealing ,hardness ,tungsten ,statistical analysis ,Crystallography ,QD901-999 - Abstract
Measurement of recovery and recrystallization kinetics of tungsten at high temperature is a key issue for many applications, such as plasma facing units in the framework of thermonuclear fusion. These kinetics are mostly derived from Vickers hardness and EBSD measurements, which can lead to some inaccuracies due to the competition between recovery and recrystallization mechanisms. A complementary/alternative approach based on statistical grid nanoindentation is proposed in this paper. The basic idea is to assume that the fraction recrystallized can be deduced using the hardness probability density function measured on a fully recrystallized sample. The hardness probability density function of the set of non-recrystallized grains can then be analyzed. The methodology was applied to rolled tungsten samples annealed at high temperature. It was clearly observed that recovery and recrystallization overlapped in terms of softening fraction in the investigated time–temperature range. Activation energy of the static recovery mechanism is in the correct order of magnitude compared to bulk self-diffusion in tungsten. High-throughput nanoindentation analysis appears as a promising way to investigate recrystallization/recovery mechanisms in metals.
- Published
- 2020
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