81 results
Search Results
2. The estimation of b-value of the frequency–magnitude distribution and of its 1σ intervals from binned magnitude data.
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Tinti, S and Gasperini, P
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DISTRIBUTION (Probability theory) , *GEOMETRIC distribution , *CONTINUOUS distributions , *DATA binning , *STANDARD deviations , *LAPLACE distribution , *EARTHQUAKE aftershocks - Abstract
The estimation of the slope (b -value) of the frequency–magnitude distribution of earthquakes is based on a formula derived by Aki decades ago, assuming a continuous exponential distribution. However, as the magnitude is usually provided with a limited resolution, its distribution is not continuous but discrete. In the literature, this problem was initially solved by an empirical correction (due to Utsu) to the minimum magnitude, and later by providing an exact formula such as that by Tinti and Mulargia, based on the geometric distribution theory. A recent paper by van der Elst showed that the b -value can be estimated also by considering the magnitude differences (which are proven to follow an exponential discrete Laplace distribution) and that in this case the estimator is more resilient to the incompleteness of the magnitude data set. In this work, we provide the complete theoretical formulation including (i) the derivation of the means and standard deviations of the discrete exponential and Laplace distributions; (ii) the estimators of the decay parameter of the discrete exponential and trimmed Laplace distributions and (iii) the corresponding formulas for the parameter b. We deduce (iv) the standard 1 σ intervals for the estimated b. Moreover, we are able (v) to quantify the error associated with the Utsu minimum-magnitude correction. Furthermore, we have discussed the formulas to produce statistically independent magnitude differences. We tested extensively the b -value estimators on simulated synthetic data sets including complete catalogues as well as catalogues affected by a strong incompleteness degree such as aftershock sequences where the incompleteness is made to vary from one event to the next. We have also analysed the real aftershock sequence of the 30/10/2016 Norcia (central Italy) to integrate the finding of the simulations. To judge the performance of the various estimators we have introduced an index p that can be seen as a non-parametric extension of the Student's t index. The main outcomes of this paper are that (1) the b -value estimators devised for continuous magnitude data are not adequate for binned magnitudes, (2) for complete data sets, estimators based on magnitudes and on magnitude differences provide substantially equivalent results, (3) for incomplete magnitude data sets, estimators based on magnitude differences provide better results and (4) for incomplete aftershock sequences there is no evidence that methods based on positive magnitude differences are superior than other methods using differences. This conclusion is further confirmed by our analysis of the above-mentioned Norcia seismic sequence. This last finding contrasts with the van der Elst's claim that the so called |${{b}_ + }$| method is the most adequate to treat real aftershock sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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3. Italian Community Co-operatives: Structuration of Community Development Processes in Italy.
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Michele, Bianchi
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COOPERATIVE societies , *EQUALITY , *SEMI-structured interviews , *NEGOTIATION , *NONPROFIT sector - Abstract
Italy is famous worldwide for its co-operative sector, and this firm model has proven to be efficacious in redressing many social inequalities over the past two centuries. This paper aims to examine how local communities in diverse regions have adapted this traditional form to the contemporary trend of bottom-up community development processes. Furthermore, the paper compares the Italian initiatives with the international literature on community co-operatives and assesses to which extend similarities and differences are viewable. The qualitative analysis considers 7 co-operatives in various areas of Italy, and analyses result from 15 semi-structured interviews with managers. Findings show the intense work undertaken before the co-operatives' registration, the negotiation of purposes and objectives with external partners, how founder groups have a key role in determining each firm's approach to local development, and how further networks with external subjects are deeply influence the co-operatives' work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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4. CIAO observatory main upgrade: building up an ACTRIS compliant aerosol in-situ laboratory.
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Laurita, Teresa, Mauceri, Alessandro, Cardellicchio, Francesco, Lapenna, Emilio, Rosa, Benedetto De, Trippetta, Serena, Mytilinaios, Michail, Amodio, Davide, Giunta, Aldo, Ripepi, Ermann, Colangelo, Canio, Papagiannopoulos, Nikolaos, Morrongiello, Francesca, Dema, Claudio, Gagliardi, Simone, Cornacchia, Carmela, Altieri, Rosa Maria Petracca, Amodeo, Aldo, Rosoldi, Marco, and Summa, Donato
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AEROSOLS , *OBSERVATORIES , *TRACE gases , *REMOTE sensing , *TROPOSPHERIC aerosols - Abstract
This paper describes the aerosol in-situ laboratory at CIAO (CNR IMAA Atmospheric Observatory) in South Italy, outlining its configuration and detailing each instrument and sampling lines. The CIAO observatory has been collecting observations of atmospheric components since 2000. Initially the activities revolved around aerosol lidar, later radiosounding and cloud remote sensing observations were added over the years and made CIAO a leading atmospheric observatory in the Mediterranean region. In 2018, a significant upgrade started for enhancing the observational capability by adding aerosol in-situ instruments, with the objective to push new research boundaries for aerosol characterization and multi-instrumental synergistic approaches. Here, we describe each technical implementation step for building up an extensive aerosol in-situ laboratory compliant with ACTRIS (Aerosol Clouds and Trace gases Research InfraStructure) standard operating procedures. Starting from scratch, the long path initiated in 2018, with the design of the laboratory in terms of instruments, container organization, inlets and sampling lines optimizations, that required time and interactions with experts in the field. Reporting here all the details about the final solutions implemented at CIAO, this paper will be, for new aerosol in-situ laboratory, a practical guide for the implementation of the aerosol in-situ observational site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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5. The Formation of the Idea of the Library as an Institution in 18th-Century Europe. A Qualitative and Quantitative Approach.
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Bianchini, Carlo, Mancini, Lorenzo, and Sabba, Fiammetta
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RESEARCH libraries , *LINKED data (Semantic Web) , *NATURAL language processing , *HISTORY of libraries , *TEXT recognition , *SEMANTIC Web - Abstract
The paper illustrates the LIBMOVIT project – Libraries on the Move: Scholars, Books, Ideas Traveling in Italy in the 18th Century – whose main research focus is the European Eighteenth century socio-cultural framework in which the library as an institution acquired an historical, social, public and dynamic dimension. This context will be analysed through a study of the Eighteenth century sources connected to the learned journey experience of the Grand Tour, in particular those contained in the Angiolo Tursi collection – one of the largest travel literature collections in Italy – held at the Marciana national library in Venice. The paper presents the planned approach of the research: first, a classification and an organization of a corpus of relevant documents for the knowledge of travel literature in connection to the libraries world will be created; in particular, the sources will be identified, further bibliographical information will be added, and new sources will be integrated to the corpus and selected documents will be digitized. After that, the research will proceed through a double analysis – traditional and computational – of the texts collected in the corpus is to be developed. First, all the library and bibliographical aspects described by travellers will be studied according to the traditional approach in humanities research to collect important information about the history of libraries (location, decoration, catalogues, opening hours, access, collections, cited books and documents), the travellers and their companions (professions, nationality, reason to travel), the people met (scholars, librarians, superintendents) and the subjects and ideas discussed during the visits in the libraries. Second, the texts will be computationally analysed through several Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques, starting from the automatic text recognition until arriving to more complex lexical and terminological analysis and Named Entity Recognition (NER). This work is meant to support the previously described qualitative study and will also allow to produce Linked open data about the domain entities (e.g. libraries, people, books) in view of their publication in the semantic web in order to ease and promote their exploration, visualisation and reuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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6. Football Disasters and Pilgrimage: Commemoration through Religious and Non-Religious Ritual and Materiality.
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Eade, John
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RITES & ceremonies , *SOCCER teams , *SOCCER fields , *SOCCER , *PILGRIMS & pilgrimages , *COLLECTIVE memory , *PROCESSIONS - Abstract
Although the relationship between religion and football has gained considerable interest during the last twenty years, scant attention has been paid to the relationship between pilgrimage and football. This paper seeks to advance the study of this relationship through an exploration of collective memory about football disasters that throws fresh light on central themes within pilgrimage studies—pilgrimage as both a journey to a sacred place and the performance of diverse rituals at such places. The paper explores, in particular, the ways in which three different tragedies involving English football clubs have been commemorated through journeys to and ritual performance at places seen as sacred to those involved in commemoration—football stadiums and urban spaces, and cathedrals and pilgrimage shrines in England, Germany and Italy. Through this analysis, we seek to show how the commemoration of football disaster is linked to pilgrimage as a process where people seek healing and reconciliation through the public performance of rituals that link the local to the global. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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7. China and Italy's Energy Development Trajectories: Current Landscapes and Future Cooperation Potential.
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Liu, Chunhong, Jiang, Shisong, Zhang, Hanfei, Lu, Ziyi, and Desideri, Umberto
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ENERGY development , *INTERNATIONAL cooperation , *CLEAN energy , *ENERGY futures , *CARBON offsetting ,SILK Road ,DEVELOPED countries - Abstract
In order to achieve the ambitious goal of "carbon neutrality", countries around the world are striving to develop clean energy. Against this background, this paper takes China and Italy as representatives of developing and developed countries to summarize the energy structure composition and development overview of the two countries. The paper analyzes the serious challenges facing the future energy development of both countries and investigates the possibilities of energy cooperation between the two countries, taking into account their respective advantages in energy development. By comparing the policies issued by the two governments to encourage clean energy development, this paper analyzes the severe challenges faced by the two countries' energy development in the future and combines their respective energy development advantages to look forward to the possibility of energy cooperation between the two countries in the future. This lays the foundation for China and Italy to build an "Energy Road" after the "Silk Road". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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8. Improving the Indoor Air Quality of Office Buildings in the Post-Pandemic Era—Impact on Energy Consumption and Costs.
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D'Agostino, Diana, Minelli, Federico, Minichiello, Francesco, and Musella, Maddalena
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ENERGY consumption , *INDOOR air quality , *ENERGY industries , *VENTILATION , *NATURAL ventilation , *OFFICE buildings , *AIR conditioning , *SOFTWARE validation , *COVID-19 - Abstract
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, ventilation in buildings was not always given its due importance. The World Health Organization has highlighted the important role of air exchange with the outdoors in improving the air quality in buildings; buildings should, therefore, be equipped with mechanical ventilation or adequate air conditioning systems. This paper aims to investigate different retrofit solutions for air conditioning, evaluating them in terms of energy consumption and cost and the impact of increased outdoor air exchange rates on countering the propagation of COVID-19; the latter is the main novelty of the paper. As a case study, we take an existing office building located in Central Italy that was previously not equipped with a mechanical ventilation system (a system with primary air was introduced during the study). The energy analysis was conducted using dynamic simulation software after validation through energy bills; energy and economic analyses were conducted considering different external-air exchange rates. An optimal number of outdoor air changes was found to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 infection, a finding in line with the international literature. The increase in air changes with outdoor air leads to a rise in energy consumption and costs. These values were evaluated for different air conditioning systems and operational schedules. These drawbacks can be made less significant by combining interventions in the system with energy-efficiency measures applied to the building envelope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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9. INFN and the evolution of distributed scientific computing in Italy.
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Salomoni, Davide, Alkhansa, Ahmad, Antonacci, Marica, Belluomo, Patrizia, Biasotto, Massimo, Carbone, Luca Giovanni, Cesini, Daniele, Ciangottini, Diego, Ciaschini, Vincenzo, Costantini, Alessandro, Doria, Alessandra, Donvito, Giacinto, Duma, Doina Cristina, Fanzago, Federica, Foggetti, Nadina, Fornari, Federico, Giorgio, Emidio Maria, Italiano, Alessandro, Malatesta, Giada, and Martelli, Barbara
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SCIENTIFIC computing , *GRID computing , *CLOUD computing , *SOFTWARE as a service - Abstract
INFN has been running a distributed infrastructure (the Tier-1 at Bologna-CNAF and 9 Tier-2 centres) for more than 20 years which currently offers about 150000 CPU cores and 120 PB of space both in tape and disk storage, serving more than 40 international scientific collaborations. This Grid-based infrastructure was augmented in 2019 with the INFN Cloud: a production quality multi-site federated Cloud infrastructure, composed by a core backbone, and which is able to integrate other INFN sites and public or private Clouds as well. The INFN Cloud provides a customizable and extensible portfolio offering computing and storage services spanning the IaaS, PaaS and SaaS layers, with dedicated solutions to serve special purposes, such as ISO-certified regions for the handling of sensitive data. INFN is now revising and expanding its infrastructure to tackle the challenges expected in the next 10 years of scientific computing adopting a "cloud-first" approach, through which all the INFN data centres will be federated via the INFN Cloud middleware and integrated with key HPC centres, such as the pre-exascale Leonardo machine at CINECA. In such a process, which involves both the infrastructures and the higher level services, initiatives and projects such as the "Italian National Centre on HPC, Big Data and Quantum Computing" (funded in the context of the Italian "National Recovery and Resilience Plan") and the Bologna Technopole are precious opportunities that will be exploited to offer advanced resources and services to universities, research institutions and industry. In this paper we describe how INFN is evolving its computing infrastructure, with the ambition to create and operate a national vendorneutral, open, scalable, and flexible "datalake" able to serve much more than just INFN users and experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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10. Test characterization of infrared phototransistors-based sensors for close-proximity operations.
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Peruffo, Mattia, Caon, Alex, Branz, Francesco, and Francesconi, Alessandro
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MODULAR construction , *DETECTORS , *PHOTOTRANSISTORS , *MODULAR design , *SPACE robotics , *SPACE environment - Abstract
On-orbit servicing and on-orbit assembly represent very appealing mission concepts that could facilitate the exploitation of the space environment. Autonomy is a critical requirement for systems aimed at the execution of these operations. The development of enabling technologies for this type of missions is a focal research topic for the global space community. The AUTOMA project (University of Padua, Italy) aims at the development of technologies to enable the on-orbit assembly of a standardized modular unit by means of a robotic arm. The goal is the development of a capture interface, composed of a gripper mechanism and a suite of close-range navigation sensors (a navcam, four time-of-flight sensors, two custom matrix sensors based on a set of phototransistors), and the mock-up of a modular assembly unit. The paper prevalently focuses on the conspicuous series of tests that has been performed at subsystem level for the characterization of the two custom matrix sensors, both in terms of their resolution and range of application. In particular, the test campaign has proven how the in-plane matrix sensor provides information about lateral misalignment and relative distance with a resolution of a few millimetres while the roll matrix sensor provides information about the angular roll misalignment with a resolution dependent on the distance between the two bodies. In addition, an analytical relation for the computation of the relative distance through the information provided by the in-plane matrix has been investigated. • Capture interface composed of a gripper mechanism and a suite of close-range navigation sensors. • Design of a standardized unit mock-up for modular assembly. • Custom sensors based on a matrix of phototransistors activated by an infrared LED beacon counterpart. • Testing campaign aimed at the characterization of the custom matrix sensors. • Analysis of a relation for the retrieval of the relative distance based on the number of phototransistors activated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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11. On optimal lockdown policies while facing socioeconomic costs.
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Gubar, Elena, Policardo, Laura, Sánchez Carrera, Edgar J., and Taynitskiy, Vladislav
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STAY-at-home orders , *VIRAL transmission , *COST functions , *SCHOOL uniforms , *FREE enterprise , *COST - Abstract
The paper analyzes the optimal lockdown policy using the SQAIRD model over a network with three population groups (young, adult, and old). We show that different lockdown policies may be justified by different socioeconomic structures (objective cost functions that are either convex or concave). We also show that a lockdown policy is always better than a laissez-faire policy, and a targeted policy specific to each group outperforms a uniform policy. In our benchmark example, we consider the case of Italy. Our simulations show that: (a) a lockdown policy is always better than the laissez-faire policy because it limits the costs generated by the pandemic in an uncontrolled situation; (b) a group-specific targeted lockout policy is more effective than a uniform policy to the extent that the groups differ. The latter is a less expensive targeted policy (as it optimally minimizes direct, indirect, and vaccination costs), and it is equally effective in controlling the pandemic. One finding of particular interest is that the optimal lockdown rate should be higher for the young and elderly than for adults. This is motivated by the fact that younger individuals are more likely to spread the virus in question asymptomatically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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12. Polypharmacy Management in Chronic Conditions: A Systematic Literature Review of Italian Interventions.
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Perrella, Lara, Mucherino, Sara, Casula, Manuela, Illario, Maddalena, Orlando, Valentina, and Menditto, Enrica
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ITALIAN literature , *POLYPHARMACY , *CHRONIC diseases , *DRUG side effects , *PATIENT compliance - Abstract
Background: Potentially inappropriate polypharmacy (PIP) is among the major factors leading to adverse drug reactions, increased healthcare costs, reduced medication adherence, and worsened patient conditions. This study aims to identify existing interventions implemented to monitor and manage polypharmacy in the Italian setting. Methods: A systematic literature review (PROSPERO: CRD42023457049) was carried out according to the PRISMA statement guidelines. PubMed, Embase, ProQuest, and Web of Science were queried without temporal constraints, encompassing all published papers until October 2023. Inclusion criteria followed the PICO model: patients with polypharmacy; interventions to monitor/manage polypharmacy regimen versus no/any intervention; outcomes in terms of intervention effectiveness and cost variation. Results: After duplicate deletion, 153 potentially relevant publications were extracted. Following abstract and full-text screenings, nine articles met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 78% (n = 7) were observational studies, 11% (n = 1) were experimental studies, and 11% (n = 1) were two-phase studies. A total of 44% (n = 4) of the studies involved patients aged ≥ 65 years, while 56% (n = 5) were disease-specific. Monitoring was the most prevalent choice of intervention (67%; n = 6). Outcomes were mainly related to levels of polypharmacy (29%; n = 6) and comorbidities (29%; n = 6), effectiveness rates (14%; n = 3), and avoidable costs (9%; n = 2). Conclusions: This review outlines that Italy is still lacking in interventions to monitor/manage PIP, addressing an unmet need in developing patient-tailored strategies for reducing health-system burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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13. An Iterative 3D Correction plus 2D Inversion Procedure to Remove 3D Effects from 2D ERT Data along Embankments.
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Hojat, Azadeh
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EMBANKMENTS , *ELECTRICAL resistivity , *LEVEES , *TEST validity , *HYDROGEOLOGY - Abstract
This paper addresses the problem of removing 3D effects as one of the most challenging problems related to 2D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) monitoring of embankment structures. When processing 2D ERT monitoring data measured along linear profiles, it is fundamental to estimate and correct the distortions introduced by the non-uniform 3D geometry of the embankment. Here, I adopt an iterative 3D correction plus 2D inversion procedure to correct the 3D effects and I test the validity of the proposed algorithm using both synthetic and real data. The modelled embankment is inspired by a critical section of the Parma River levee in Colorno (PR), Italy, where a permanent ERT monitoring system has been in operation since November 2018. For each model of the embankment, reference synthetic data were produced in Res2dmod and Res3dmod for the corresponding 2D and 3D models. Using the reference synthetic data, reference 3D effects were calculated to be compared with 3D effects estimated by the proposed algorithm at each iteration. The results of the synthetic tests showed that even in the absence of a priori information, the proposed algorithm for correcting 3D effects converges rapidly to ideal corrections. Having validated the proposed algorithm through synthetic tests, the method was applied to the ERT monitoring data in the study site to remove 3D effects. Two real datasets from the study site, taken after dry and rainy periods, are discussed here. The results showed that 3D effects cause about ±50% changes in the inverted resistivity images for both periods. This is a critical artifact considering that the final objective of ERT monitoring data for such studies is to produce water content maps to be integrated in alarm systems for hydrogeological risk mitigation. The proposed algorithm to remove 3D effects is thus a rapid and validated solution to satisfy near-real-time data processing and to produce reliable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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14. Issues and Needs for the Sustainable Development of Shellfish Farming in Italy.
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Tudini, Lucia and Forgione, Andrea
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SHELLFISH industry , *SUSTAINABLE development , *FOOD safety , *SEAFOOD - Abstract
The Italian shellfish industry mainly comprises clams, mussels, and oysters. While clam production thrives and Italy leads Europe, mussel farming faces economic challenges. Oyster production is relatively new and holds potential. Sustainable development is crucial for meeting growing seafood demand while ensuring resource conservation and food safety. This paper, part of the VALUE-SHELL project funded by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests (MASAF) as part of support activities for the National Strategic Plan of Aquaculture, combines desk research on industry structure and public interventions using a collaborative approach involving stakeholder interviews and focus groups with producers and local entities to assess the sector's most compelling needs. The collaborative process highlighted key challenges across the following four sustainability pillars: environmental (global warming, predator control, and pollution mitigation are critical concerns for ecosystem balance); economic (increased production costs and limited diversification opportunities affect profitability); social (fear of generational decline due to limited training and education opportunities poses a threat to the industry's future); and institutional (lack of a dedicated aquaculture law and fragmented governance hinder long-term planning). The project identifies policy bottlenecks hindering the sector's potential, caused by not fully addressing producer needs. Sustainable development strategies are essential for addressing these challenges and ensuring the Italian shellfish industry's future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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15. Flatties in Italy: online naturalist networks confirm a wide distribution of Selenops radiatus (Araneae: Selenopidae) in southeastern Sicily.
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Dentici, Antonino, Galasso, Paolo, and Faraone, Francesco Paolo
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ARTIFICIAL habitats , *NATURALISTS , *SPIDERS , *CRAB spiders , *ARCHIPELAGOES , *ISLANDS - Abstract
In Italy, the selenopid spider Selenops radiatus Latreille, 1819, was hitherto only known from the Aeolian Archipelago (northeastern Sicily), with a record from the island of Alicudi and plausible sightings from the island of Filicudi. In this paper, we present twentysix new records from Sicily sensu stricto and its satellite islands, consisting of observations gathered from online naturalist networks and one adult specimen collected from the area where most observations were made. Nearly all records were made in buildings or similar artificial habitats, supporting the hypothesis that occurrences of S. radiatus are mainly limited to synanthropic environments in Sicily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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16. Current Evidence for a New Surgical Technique for Scleral Fixation: The Implantation of a Carlevale Lens, a Systematic Review.
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Barbieri, Francesca, Maglionico, Maria Novella, Casini, Giamberto, Guidi, Gianluca, Figus, Michele, and Posarelli, Chiara
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OPERATIVE surgery , *INTRAOCULAR lenses , *SURGICAL complications , *PARS plana , *INTRAOCULAR pressure , *VITRECTOMY , *PHOTOREFRACTIVE keratectomy - Abstract
Background: The Carlevale lens (FIL SSF, Soleko IOL Division, Italy) is a new lens for suture-less scleral fixation. This paper aimed to systematically review articles on this lens, the surgical techniques used for its implantation, complications and outcomes. Methods: This systematic review was performed following the PRISMA guidelines. The search string used was "Carlevale" AND "scleral fixation" from inception until March 2024. For completeness, either case-control studies, case reports or case series written in English were included. The authors used the Newcastle–Ottawa scale for the case-control studies and the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for case reports and case series. Results: Twenty-nine articles were included. Scleral fixation with Carlevale lens can be performed by creating scleral flaps or, alternatively, by using scleral pockets. The two sclerotomies must be diametrically opposed, and are preferably created by 25-gauge trocars. A pars plana vitrectomy should be performed every time, and the design of the lens should be suitable for self-anchoring to the sclera; the most accredited strategy to achieve this is to avoid scleral sutures. There were only a few intraoperative and postoperative complications reported; vitreous hemorrhages were the most frequent intraoperative events, while the most relevant postoperative complications were vitreous hemorrhages, cystoid macular oedema and transient variations in the intraocular pressure. Excellent results have been obtained in terms of BCVA, IOL centration and stability, mean intraocular pressure, postoperative spherical equivalent, separation between anterior and posterior chamber and the distance of the IOL from anterior chamber structures. Conclusions: The foldable hydrophilic design of the Carlevale lens has shown good effectiveness, IOL stability and few intra and post-operative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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17. It's never too late to be financially literate: Evaluating a financial education intervention for adults in Italy.
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Iannotta, Gabriele, Cannistrà, Marta, and Agasisti, Tommaso
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ADULT education , *PERSONAL finance , *LEARNING , *RANDOMIZED controlled trials , *CORPORATE finance , *LITERACY , *ONLINE education - Abstract
Financial education represents a powerful tool for improving economic literacy of citizens. This paper presents results from an experiment providing a group of 136 workers in an Italian university (administrative staff) an online, synchronous course. Classes were organized in 5 sessions of 2h each and covered basic topics about personal finance. The effectiveness of the course is assessed through a rigorous randomized controlled trial (RCT). In addition to the analysis of improvements in financial knowledge, financial self‐efficacy and the role of prior attitudes and behaviors were explored. Participants obtained post‐test scores statistically higher than individuals in the control group, with an average effect size of 0.55 SD. The effect is particularly relevant for participants starting with low levels of financial knowledge. Moreover, two novel findings emerge: financial self‐efficacy increases (0.51 SD) after the course, and pre‐treatment individuals' financial attitudes and behaviors shed further light on the financial learning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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18. A New Tailored Approach to Calculate the Optimal Number of Outdoor Air Changes in School Building HVAC Systems in the Post-COVID-19 Era.
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D'Agostino, Diana, Di Mascolo, Martina, Minelli, Federico, and Minichiello, Francesco
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NATURAL ventilation , *COVID-19 pandemic , *GREENHOUSE gases , *INDUSTRIALIZED building , *AIRBORNE infection , *COVID-19 , *COMMERCIAL buildings , *SCHOOL buildings - Abstract
Air conditioning systems can play a positive or negative role in the spread of COVID-19 infection. The importance of sufficient outdoor air changes in buildings was highlighted by the World Health Organization, therefore these should be guaranteed by mechanical ventilation systems or adequate air conditioning systems. The proposed case study concerns the optimal number of outdoor air changes to limit COVID-19 contagion for a school building in Central Italy. The Wells–Riley model is used to assess the risk of airborne infection, while energy consumption is calculated by a dynamic energy simulation software. The scope of the paper offers an innovative method to define the optimal ventilation strategy for the building's HVAC system design to reduce the risk of infection with limited increases in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Results show that the desirable approach is the one in which the same low value of contagion risk is set in all rooms. This new approach results in significant energy savings, compared to the most common ones (setting the same high outdoor air rates for all rooms) to counteract the risk of infection. Finally, the zero-emission building target is verified by introducing a suitable photovoltaic system to offset pollutant emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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19. Instrumental Monitoring of a Slow-Moving Landslide in Piedmont (Northwest Italy) for the Definition of Rainfall Thresholds.
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Bonasera, Mauro, Taboni, Battista, Caselle, Chiara, Acquaotta, Fiorella, Fubelli, Giandomenico, Masciocco, Luciano, Bonetto, Sabrina Maria Rita, Ferrero, Anna Maria, and Umili, Gessica
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LANDSLIDES , *RAINFALL , *NATURAL disaster warning systems , *SYNTHETIC aperture radar , *GROUND motion , *GEOLOGICAL modeling , *LANDSLIDE prediction - Abstract
The prediction and prevention of landslide hazard is a challenging topic involving the assessment and quantitative evaluation of several elements: geological and geomorphological setting, rainfalls, and ground motion. This paper presents the multi-approach investigation of the Nevissano landslide (Asti Province, Piedmont, NW Italy). It shows a continuous and slow movement, alongside few paroxysmal events, the last recorded in 2016. The geological and geomorphological models were defined through a field survey. An inventory of the landslide's movements and rainfall records in the period 2000–2016 was performed, respectively, through archive investigations and the application of "Moving Sum of Daily Rainfall" method, allowing for the definition of rain thresholds for the landslide activation (105 mm and 193 mm, respectively, in 3 and 30 days prior to the event). The displacements over the last 8 years (2016–2023) were monitored through an innovative in-continuum monitoring inclinometric system and Earth Observation (EO) data (i.e., relying on Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar, or InSAR data): it gave the opportunity to validate the rainfall thresholds previously defined. This study aims to provide information to public authorities for the appropriate management of the site. Moreover, the proposed workflow could be adopted as a guideline for investigating similar situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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20. Data Assimilation of Satellite-Derived Rain Rates Estimated by Neural Network in Convective Environments: A Study over Italy.
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Torcasio, Rosa Claudia, Papa, Mario, Del Frate, Fabio, Mascitelli, Alessandra, Dietrich, Stefano, Panegrossi, Giulia, and Federico, Stefano
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ARTIFICIAL neural networks , *CLIMATOLOGY , *ATMOSPHERIC sciences , *METEOROLOGICAL research , *WEATHER forecasting , *RAINFALL , *SUMMER , *KALMAN filtering , *FORECASTING - Abstract
The accurate prediction of heavy precipitation in convective environments is crucial because such events, often occurring in Italy during the summer and fall seasons, can be a threat for people and properties. In this paper, we analyse the impact of satellite-derived surface-rainfall-rate data assimilation on the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model's precipitation prediction, considering 15 days in summer 2022 and 17 days in fall 2022, where moderate to intense precipitation was observed over Italy. A 3DVar realised at CNR-ISAC (National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences and Climate) is used to assimilate two different satellite-derived rain rate products, both exploiting geostationary (GEO), infrared (IR), and low-Earth-orbit (LEO) microwave (MW) measurements: One is based on an artificial neural network (NN), and the other one is the operational P-IN-SEVIRI-PMW product (H60), delivered in near-real time by the EUMETSAT HSAF (Satellite Application Facility in Support of Operational Hydrology and Water Management). The forecast is verified in two periods: the hours from 1 to 4 (1–4 h phase) and the hours from 3 to 6 (3–6 h phase) after the assimilation. The results show that the rain rate assimilation improves the precipitation forecast in both seasons and for both forecast phases, even if the improvement in the 3–6 h phase is found mainly in summer. The assimilation of H60 produces a high number of false alarms, which has a negative impact on the forecast, especially for intense events (30 mm/3 h). The assimilation of the NN rain rate gives more balanced predictions, improving the control forecast without significantly increasing false alarms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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21. 137Cesium (137Cs) assessment in wild boars from northwestern Italy.
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Pattono, Daniele, Mannelli, Alessandro, Dalmasso, Alessandra, Orusa, Riccardo, Faure Ragani, Massimo, and Bottero, Maria Teresa
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WILD boar , *GERMANIUM radiation detectors , *ALPINE regions , *ANIMAL populations , *NUCLEAR power plants - Abstract
Radionuclide contamination is a serious health issue caused by nuclear experiments and plant accidents, as seen for the Chernobyl and Fukushima nuclear plants. Italy has been especially interested in northwestern alpine regions, as have several other nations. The aim of this work was to indagate 134Cs and 137Cs contamination in wild boars, which were considered bioindicators sampled in the Chisone/Germanasca Valley and the Pellice Valley districts (Piedmont, Italy) in two hunting seasons (2014 and 2016). In the 2014 season, only the livers of the animals (n = 48) were sampled, whereas in 2016, five different anatomical sampling sites were sampled for each animal (n = 16). The analyses were conducted in an accredited laboratory (Agenzia Regionale per la Protezione dell'Ambiente–ARPA) by the aid of an HPGe detector (Ortec) with a relative efficiency of 50%. In general, the contamination levels registered in 2014 were under the detection limit for 134Cs and low for 137Cs (Chisone/Germanasca valley: min: 0.0, max: 23.9 median 11.0 Bq/kg vs Pellice valley: min 0, max: 31.7, median: 9.6 Bq/kg) and no health concern can be supposed. In the first-year samples, the liver showed a negative correlation between age and contamination level. In the second year of sampling, low levels were confirmed (min: 3.1 Bq/kg, max: 113.3; median 17.7 Bq/kg). Multiple sampling from the same animal showed that the diaphragm (median = 27.7 Bq/kg) kidney (27.4) and tongue (27.6) were more contaminated than the liver (17.7) and spleen (15.3). Moreover, a linear mixed model revealed a negative organ-by-age interaction, meaning that interorgan differences in contamination level were greater in younger (5–11 months) than in older (18–36 months) animals. Different feeding habits can be the explanation. Our paper shows that muscle sites (diaphragm and tongue) can be useful for radionuclide pollution surveillance in wild boar populations and that younger animals show more interorgan variability in contamination levels than older animals. More investigations are needed to confirm this correlation and to fulfill the request for more data to achieve better risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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22. Microbial Polysaccharides Extracted from Different Mature Muds of the Euganean Thermal District Show Similar Anti-Inflammatory Activity In Vivo.
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Caichiolo, Micol, Zampieri, Raffaella Margherita, Adessi, Alessandra, Ciani, Matilde, Caldara, Fabrizio, Dalla Valle, Luisa, and La Rocca, Nicoletta
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MICROBIAL polysaccharides , *ANTI-inflammatory agents , *TOPICAL drug administration , *MUD , *NUCLEOTIDE sequencing - Abstract
The Euganean Thermal District, situated in North-East Italy, is one of Europe's largest and oldest thermal centres. The topical application of its therapeutic thermal muds is recognised by the Italian Health System as a beneficial treatment for patients suffering from arthro-rheumatic diseases. Polysaccharides produced by the mud microbiota have been recently identified as anti-inflammatory bioactive molecules. In this paper we analysed the efficacy of Microbial-Polysaccharides (M-PS) derived from mature muds obtained at different maturation temperatures, both within and outside the codified traditional mud maturation range. M-PSs were extracted from six mature muds produced by five spas of the Euganean Thermal District and investigated for their chemical properties, monosaccharide composition and in vivo anti-inflammatory potential, using the zebrafish model organism. Additionally, mature muds were characterized for their microbiota composition using Next-Generation Sequencing. The results showed that all M-PSs exhibit similar anti-inflammatory potential, referable to their comparable chemical composition. This consistency was observed despite changes in cyanobacteria populations, suggesting a possible role of the entire microbial community in shaping the properties of these biomolecules. These findings highlight the importance of scientific research in untangling the origins of the therapeutic efficacy of Euganean Thermal muds in the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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23. The ecology of lichenicolous lichens: a case-study in Italy.
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Nimis, Pier Luigi, Pittao, Elena, Caramia, Monica, Pitacco, Piero, Martellos, Stefano, and Muggia, Lucia
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LICHENICOLOUS fungi , *LICHENS , *FUNGAL ecology , *GREEN algae , *THALLUS - Abstract
This paper, with Italy as a case-study, provides a general overview on the ecology of lichenicolous lichens, i.e. those which start their life-cycle on the thallus of other lichens. It aims at testing whether some ecological factors do exert a positive selective pressure on the lichenicolous lifestyle. The incidence of some biological traits (photobionts, growth-forms and reproductive strategies) in lichenicolous and non-lichenicolous lichens was compared, on a set of 3005 infrageneric taxa potentially occurring in Italy, 189 of which are lichenicolous. Lichenicolous lichens have a much higher incidence of coccoid (non-trentepohlioid) green algae, crustose growth-forms and sexual reproduction. A matrix of the 2762 species with phycobionts and some main ecological descriptors was subjected to ordination. Lichenicolous lichens occupy a well-defined portion of the ecological space, tending to grow on rocks in dry, well-lit habitats where a germinating spore is likely to have a short life-span, at all altitudes. This corroborates the hypothesis that at least some of them are not true "parasites", as they are often called, but gather the photobionts - which have already adapted to local ecological conditions - from their hosts, eventually developing an independent thallus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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24. Managing BEV Charge to Obtain a Positive Impact on a National Power System.
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Barsali, Stefano, Ceraolo, Massimo, Pasini, Gianluca, and Poli, Davide
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ELECTRIC vehicles , *RENEWABLE energy sources , *ELECTRIC vehicle batteries , *ELECTRIC power distribution grids , *RESEARCH questions - Abstract
This paper's research question is to evaluate the potential impact of large numbers of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) on the future electric grid, and whether the flexibility of BEV charging can induce enough system benefits to remunerate BEV users for the change in their recharging pattern. The considered scenario refers to the Italian situation and what might occur through the year 2040, where a share of BEV stock of 40% can be foreseen, as well as significant increases in PV and wind generation. Although this study is focused on Italy, its results are applicable, with minor differences, to several EU countries. This paper first shows that the future impact of increasing penetration of BEVs appears to be compatible with the expected growth of generation from renewable energy sources (RES) and the corresponding reduction in fossil fuel-based generation. It also gives an estimate of the CO2 emission reduction resulting from these changes, considering an unmanaged BEV charge profile and two different managed profiles that shift the car's charging period to hours of the day when they have no negative impact on the grid and maximize the utilization of RES. Finally, it shows an evaluation of the economic benefits of displacing private car charging ranging from 4 to 10 cEUR/kWh, which could be used as tariff incentives to stimulate this displacing in recharging time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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25. Indoor Parameters of Museum Buildings for Guaranteeing Artworks Preservation and People's Comfort: Compatibilities, Constraints, and Suggestions.
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Cirrincione, Laura, La Gennusa, Maria, Peri, Giorgia, Rizzo, Gianfranco, and Scaccianoce, Gianluca
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MUSEUM buildings , *MEDITERRANEAN climate , *EXHIBITION buildings , *HEATING & ventilation industry equipment , *PUBLIC buildings , *HUMAN comfort - Abstract
Since people tend to spend more and more time visiting museums, more accurate requirements are needed for the indoor environmental conditions of these confined spaces where two primary requisites coincide in defining their optimal indoor microclimate: the need for the appropriate artwork preservation and suitable levels of indoor comfort conditions for people visiting the exhibition buildings and/or working there. Regrettably, people and artwork requirements are sometimes characterized by different reference limits of the environmental parameters that, not rarely, could potentially conflict. Another important point to consider is that museums hosted by heritage buildings (particularly in Mediterranean climates, as is often the case in Italy) are often not equipped with climatization systems because of difficulty in installing generally bulky equipment such as HVAC systems. This circumstance represents another important limit for achieving suitable conditions for the two requisites. In addition, the recent pandemic-related occurrences are pushing technicians and designers to rethink the criteria for controlling the microclimate of public buildings, and museums among them. In this paper, this issue is addressed by reviewing current regulations, standards, and handbooks (and by means of a real case example related to the Italian context) in order to ascertain whether such documentation could facilitate the development of effective rules/guidelines for proper management of indoor parameters in museums. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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26. Assessing potential sustainability benefits of micromobility: a new data driven approach.
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Comi, Antonio and Polimeni, Antonio
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SUSTAINABILITY , *URBAN planning , *CHOICE of transportation , *GREENHOUSE gas mitigation , *CITIES & towns , *ELECTRIC bicycles , *PHYSICAL mobility - Abstract
Promoting the shift from private cars to micromobility (e.g., bike, e-bike, scooter) can represent a valuable action to improve city sustainability and liveability. Micromobility can help to replace trips by individual private cars (e.g., daily short round trips) as well as to improve coverage and accessibility of transit services, and, subsequently, to reduce the traffic impacts (e.g., pollutant emissions). It can be seen as a potential solution to move people more efficiently in urban areas, as well as to push people towards a more active mobility behaviour, contributing to the well-being goals. In this context, the paper, rather than inferring the users' propensity to change their travel mode, proposes a methodology to identify car trips that can be considered the most compatible with micromobility. Estimation of the potential demand (e.g., the upper level of car trips that could be replaced by micromobility) is carried out by exploiting the opportunity offered by floating car data (FCD) for characterising car trips. Its goodness is therefore evaluated through an application to a real case study (i.e., the city of Trani, Apulia Region, Southern Italy), divided into seventy traffic zones, and where a FCD dataset of about 5,200 trips was available. The FCD allowed the car trips to be characterised (e.g., origin and destination, path features) instead of using the traditional surveys. The results indicate that a significant share of daily car trips can be substituted (i.e., the most compatible) by micromobility (31% of car round trips in the case study), with considerable potential environmental gains (traffic emission reduction; less than 21% of total emissions from private cars). Results can be of interest to local authorities in integrating micromobility in urban mobility planning and promoting new sustainable transport alternatives, as well as to transport companies for designing new appeal services. The developed methodology is parametric and uses easy-to-obtain data available worldwide; thus, it can be easily transferred to other city contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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27. Investigating the Impact of Xylella Fastidiosa on Olive Trees by the Analysis of MODIS Terra Satellite Evapotranspiration Time Series by Using the Fisher Information Measure and the Shannon Entropy: A Case Study in Southern Italy.
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Telesca, Luciano, Abate, Nicodemo, Lovallo, Michele, and Lasaponara, Rosa
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UNCERTAINTY (Information theory) , *XYLELLA fastidiosa , *OLIVE , *INFORMATION measurement , *EVAPOTRANSPIRATION , *ENTROPY - Abstract
Xylella Fastidiosa has been recently detected for the first time in southern Italy, representing a very dangerous phytobacterium capable of inducing severe diseases in many plants. In particular, the disease induced in olive trees is called olive quick decline syndrome (OQDS), which provokes the rapid desiccation and, ultimately, death of the infected plants. In this paper, we analyse about two thousands pixels of MODIS satellite evapotranspiration time series, covering infected and uninfected olive groves in southern Italy. Our aim is the identification of Xylella Fastidiosa-linked patterns in the statistical features of evapotranspiration data. The adopted methodology is the well-known Fisher–Shannon analysis that allows one to characterize the time dynamics of complex time series by means of two informational quantities, the Fisher information measure (FIM) and the Shannon entropy power (SEP). On average, the evapotranspiration of Xylella Fastidiosa-infected sites is characterized by a larger SEP and lower FIM compared to uninfected sites. The analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curve suggests that SEP and FIM can be considered binary classifiers with good discrimination performance that, moreover, improves if the yearly cycle, very likely linked with the meteo-climatic variability of the investigated areas, is removed from the data. Furthermore, it indicated that FIM exhibits superior effectiveness compared to SEP in discerning healthy and infected pixels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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28. 3D FEM Back Analysis of the Observed Performance of a Very Deep Excavation in the Historical Center of Naples, Italy.
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Russo, Gianpiero, Nicotera, Marco Valerio, and Esposito, Ilaria
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EXCAVATION , *BORED piles , *HISTORIC buildings , *RETAINING walls , *VOLCANIC ash, tuff, etc. - Abstract
Chiaia station is one of the art stations of Line 6 of the Naples underground network; it was constructed in a 50-m-deep excavation, a few meters from historic buildings and 4.5 m from the main façade of a sixteenth-century Basilica. The excavation, carried out partially in loose to medium dense sands overlying the soft rock formation of Neapolitan Yellow Tuff (NYT), was supported by a retaining wall made of contiguous bored piles braced with internal struts and prestressed ground anchors. The excavation sequence was quite complex due to archeological findings and to the presence of anthropic cavities used over the centuries to quarry NYT blocks. One of the key goals of the design was to limit movements around the shaft to prevent damage in the historical buildings. Long-term monitoring data obtained during nearly 9 years confirm the success of the overall construction process. A rather complex three-dimensional (3D) finite-element model with constitutive relationships for both the upper sandy layers and the soft rock is presented in the paper; this model was adopted to back-analyze the data from the monitoring and explore the influence of some of the key features of the case study. The role of the building bending and shear stiffness, of the soft rock stiffness, and of further apparently minor issues—such as the seepage and the ground anchors' prestress—were investigated and discussed with the support of the model calculations. Observed settlements at the end of the excavation were in the range 10–15 mm, and in the long term they increased by 20%–50% to as much as 20 mm. The deflection ratios were very small, in the range 0.05‰–0.15‰ , and no visible damages to the buildings were recorded. These values were reproduced by the finite-element model only after the introduction of the relevant building stiffness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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29. Upward and Poleward (but Not Phenological) Shifts in a Forest Tenebrionid Beetle in Response to Global Change in a Mediterranean Area.
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Fattorini, Simone
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BEETLES , *PLANT phenology , *CLIMATE change in literature , *CLIMATE change , *MEDIAN (Mathematics) , *COMMUNITY forests , *INSECT populations - Abstract
Simple Summary: There is increasing interest in the study of how the ongoing climate change is affecting insect populations. However, most research has been focused on a limited number of groups that are particularly charismatic or expected to respond more clearly to climate change. Moreover, most research has been developed in a few areas (especially northern and central European countries), while others (such as the Mediterranean basin) have been largely overlooked. Therefore, more empirical research is needed, particularly on less charismatic species, groups that are expected to react less dramatically to climatic change, and key areas that are still poorly investigated. This study investigates changes in distributional and activity patterns in a common, ecologically tolerant, forest tenebrionid beetle in a region (central Italy) within the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot, an area strongly subjected to the ongoing climate change, but for which research is still limited. By analyzing changes in elevation, latitude, longitude, and seasonal activity between 1900–1980 and 1981–2022, the results provided insights into the potential effects of climate change on this species. The beetle's average values of elevation and latitude were found to have been increased in the second period. In response to rising temperatures, the species became more frequent at higher elevation and in northern places. No strong evidence was found for an earlier species seasonal activity, but this could be due to the inclusion in the analysis of likely overwintering individuals. The findings suggest that even thermally tolerant species can undergo distributional shifts in elevation and latitude, even at a relatively small scale. There is an increasing volume of literature on the impact of climate change on insects. However, there is an urgent need for more empirical research on underrepresented groups in key areas, including species for which the effects of climatic change may seem less evident. The present paper illustrates the results of a study on a common forest tenebrionid beetle, Accanthopus velikensis (Piller and Mitterpacher, 1783), at a regional scale within the Mediterranean basin. Using a large set of records from Latium (central Italy), changes in the median values of elevation, latitude, longitude, and phenology between two periods (1900–1980 vs. 1981–2022) were tested. Records of A. velikensis in the period 1981–2022 showed median values of elevation and latitude higher than those recorded in the first period. Thus, in response to rising temperatures, the species became more frequent at higher elevation and in northern places. By contrast, A. velikensis does not seem to have changed its activity pattern in response to increased temperatures, but this might be an artifact due to the inclusion of likely overwintering individuals. The results obtained for A. velikensis indicate that even thermally euryoecious species can show changes in their elevational and latitudinal distribution, and that poleward shifts can be apparent even within a small latitudinal gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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30. First National Prevalence in Italian Horse Population and Phylogenesis Highlight a Fourth Sub-Type Candidate of Equine Hepacivirus.
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Nardini, Roberto, Pacchiarotti, Giulia, Svicher, Valentina, Salpini, Romina, Bellocchi, Maria Concetta, Conti, Raffaella, Sala, Marcello Giovanni, La Rocca, Davide, Carioti, Luca, Cersini, Antonella, Manna, Giuseppe, and Scicluna, Maria Teresa
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HORSES , *HORSE breeding , *TERTIARY structure , *PROTEIN structure , *EQUIDAE , *RNA viruses , *DONKEYS , *WILD horses - Abstract
Equine hepacivirus (EqHV, Flaviviridae, hepacivirus) is a small, enveloped RNA virus generally causing sub-clinical hepatitis with occasional fatalities. EqHV is reported in equids worldwide, but for Italy data are limited. To address this, a survey study was set up to estimate prevalence at a national level and among different production categories (equestrian; competition; work and meat; reproduction) and national macro-regions (North, Central, South, and Islands). Data obtained testing 1801 horse serum samples by Real-Time RT PCR were compared within the categories and regions. The NS3 fragment of the PCR-positive samples was sequenced by Sanger protocol for phylogenetic and mutational analysis. The tertiary structure of the NS3 protein was also assessed. The estimated national prevalence was 4.27% [1.97–6.59, 95% CI] and no statistical differences were detected among production categories and macro-regions. The phylogenesis confirmed the distribution in Italy of the three known EqHV subtypes, also suggesting a possible fourth sub-type that, however, requires further confirmation. Mutational profiles that could also affect the NS3 binding affinity to the viral RNA were detected. The present paper demonstrates that EqHV should be included in diagnostic protocols when investigating causes of hepatitis, and in quality control protocols for blood derived products due to its parental transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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31. Protecting Protection Programmes or Engaging with People? Conditional Inclusion and Evolving Relational Dynamics in Anti-Trafficking Programmes.
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Semprebon, Michela
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HUMAN trafficking , *NIGERIANS , *SOCIAL services , *VIOLENCE against women , *SOCIAL background , *VIOLENCE in the workplace , *SEMI-structured interviews , *WOMEN employees - Abstract
Anti-trafficking programmes in Italy have been implemented for more than two decades. Yet, little empirical evidence is available regarding their functioning. This paper draws on 56 semi-structured interviews carried out in the period of 2019–2021 with practitioners and beneficiaries of the N.A.Ve anti-trafficking programme. The interviews focused on practitioners' experience working with Nigerian women and on Nigerian women's experiences of the programme upon completion. By building on critical anti-trafficking studies and the autonomy of migration perspective, this contribution looks at the relationship between practitioners and Nigerian women admitted to the programme by addressing the following questions: what is the experience of practitioners and beneficiaries in the N.A.Ve programme? To what extent is the structural violence of the counter-trafficking apparatus reproduced in the relational dynamics between practitioners, particularly Case Managers, and beneficiaries? How do beneficiaries cope with such violence? I argue that the Case Managers' approach builds on "stratified layers of institutional knowledge" and that this concept is useful to highlight how their knowledge derives both from the counter-trafficking apparatus and their social work background. Furthermore, I present evidence that such an approach reproduces structural violence through processes of "conditional inclusion". Nigerian women denounced this violence but also seized the relational capital grown from rapport, calling for more engagement with people rather than programme objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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32. 'ALL ABOUT MY IDEAL MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE': Users, family members and experts by experience discussing a co‐designed service.
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Rocelli, Michele, Aquili, Ludovica, Giovanazzi, Paolo, Puecher, Andrea, Goglio, Marco Maria, and Faccio, Elena
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FAMILIES & psychology , *MENTAL health services , *MEDICAL personnel , *HUMAN services programs , *FOCUS groups , *RESEARCH funding , *QUALITATIVE research , *PATIENT psychology , *CONTENT analysis , *INTERVIEWING , *PATIENT-centered care , *MOTIVATION (Psychology) , *PATIENT-professional relations , *EXPERTISE , *QUALITY assurance , *GROUNDED theory , *PSYCHOSOCIAL factors , *MEDICAL practice - Abstract
Introduction: Many studies have investigated patients' understandings of how to optimise mental health services. However, only a few studies in the Italian context have involved experts by experience (EbEs), who can be ex‐users, family members of ex‐users or current service collaborators. Their role is crucial in implementing collaborative service quality assessment projects. Method: The study investigated the experience of 35 EbEs, users, and family members who carried out a 9‐month fortnightly project aimed at imagining an 'ideal service'. The facilitators of the discussion groups (two EbEs) were interviewed; written reports of each meeting were produced with relevant comments, notes and specific suggestions; and content analysis was applied. Results: The most important result concerns the effectiveness of the project management method and group leadership carried out by the two EbEs. This approach allowed for complete autonomy of the work, without professional gaze or power imbalance. Also, the ideas and specific contents focused on by the two groups offer strategies to facilitate users' entry and reception in health care centres, to reduce the stigma of mental illness, to improve the centres' physical environment, to improve organisational aspects, to keep family members actively involved and to network mental health services with other territorial services. Conclusions: EbEs have proven to be key figures in ensuring equity of role in the service co‐design process. This also concerns a context, the Italian one, where their role has not yet been recognised and legalised. Their contribution and ideas to improve services could be fundamental not only in mental health centres, but also in other health facilities, and could concern the entire service delivery process rather than being limited to quality assurance, according to a virtuous circle based on active participation and transformation of the role of users. Patient or Public Contribution: This work resulted from close collaboration between the two EbEs who conducted the groups, users and family members, the university, and the psychiatrist in charge of the service. All of them contributed to the research. The EbEs, researchers and psychiatrist participated in the interpretation of the data and are the co‐authors of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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33. Uniportal Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Completion Lobectomy Long after Wedge Resection or Segmentectomy in the Same Lobe: A Bicenter Study.
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Meacci, Elisa, Refai, Majed, Nachira, Dania, Salati, Michele, Kuzmych, Khrystyna, Tabacco, Diomira, Zanfrini, Edoardo, Calabrese, Giuseppe, Napolitano, Antonio Giulio, Congedo, Maria Teresa, Chiappetta, Marco, Petracca-Ciavarella, Leonardo, Sassorossi, Carolina, Andolfi, Marco, Xiumè, Francesco, Tiberi, Michela, Guiducci, Gian Marco, Vita, Maria Letizia, Roncon, Alberto, and Nanto, Anna Chiara
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VIDEO-assisted thoracic surgery , *PATIENT safety , *THORACOTOMY , *TISSUE adhesions , *TREATMENT effectiveness , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *MULTIVARIATE analysis , *PLEURAL tumors , *SURGICAL blood loss , *SURGICAL complications , *LUNG surgery , *OBSTRUCTIVE lung diseases , *CONFIDENCE intervals , *LENGTH of stay in hospitals , *PNEUMONECTOMY , *EVALUATION - Abstract
Simple Summary: Completion lobectomy (CL) entails the resection of the remaining pulmonary lobe subsequent to wedge resection or segmentectomy. Indications for CL include reoperations for multiple or relapsed lung cancers and metastatic lung tumors, and the prognostic advantage of these procedures has been widely reported. However, ipsilateral surgical treatments, particularly within the same lobe, present challenges due to the development of intrapleural adhesions, rendering reoperation more difficult and time-consuming. VATS has emerged as the gold standard in the surgical treatment of early-stage NSCLC, offering superior postoperative outcomes when compared to thoracotomy. Its efficacy has been well established, even during complex procedures. However, its application in ipsilateral reoperations remains anecdotal, and to the best of our knowledge, no studies have analyzed the safety and efficacy of uniportal-VATS in this setting. This paper aims to evaluate the role of iniportal-VATS in CL long after wedge resection or anatomical segmentectomy in the same lobe. Background: Completion lobectomy (CL) following a prior resection in the same lobe may be complicated by severe pleural or hilar adhesions. The role of uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (U-VATS) has never been evaluated in this setting. Methods: Data were collected from two Italian centers. Between 2015 and 2022, 122 patients (60 men and 62 women, median age 67.7 ± 8.913) underwent U-VATS CL at least 4 weeks after previous lung surgery. Results: Twenty-eight (22.9%) patients were affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and twenty-five (20.4%) were active smokers. Among the cohort, the initial surgery was performed using U-VATS in 103 (84.4%) patients, triportal-VATS in 8 (6.6%), and thoracotomy in 11 (9.0%). Anatomical segmentectomy was the initial surgery in 46 (37.7%) patients, while hilar lymphadenectomy was performed in 16 (13.1%) cases. CL was performed on 110 (90.2%) patients, segmentectomy on 10 (8.2%), and completion pneumonectomy on 2 (1.6%). Upon reoperation, moderate pleural adhesions were observed in 38 (31.1%) patients, with 2 (1.6%) exhibiting strong adhesions. Moderate hilar adhesions were found in 18 (14.8%) patients and strong adhesions in 11 (9.0%). The median operative time was 203.93 ± 74.4 min. In four (3.3%) patients, PA taping was performed. One patient experienced intraoperative bleeding that did not require conversion to thoracotomy. Conversion to thoracotomy was necessary in three (2.5%) patients. The median postoperative drainage stay and postoperative hospital stay were 5.67 ± 4.44 and 5.52 ± 2.66 days, respectively. Postoperative complications occurred in 34 (27.9%) patients. Thirty-day mortality was null. Histology was the only factor found to negatively influence intraoperative outcomes (p = 0.000). Factors identified as negatively impacting postoperative outcomes at univariate analyses were male sex (p = 0.003), age > 60 years (p = 0.003), COPD (p = 0.014), previous thoracotomy (p = 0.000), previous S2 segmentectomy (p = 0.001), previous S8 segmentectomy (p = 0.008), and interval between operations > 5 weeks (p= 0.005). In multivariate analysis, only COPD confirmed its role as an independent risk factor for postoperative complications (HR: 5.12, 95% CI (1.07–24.50), p = 0.04). Conclusions: U-VATS CL seems feasible and safe after wedge resection and anatomical segmentectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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34. A Dependability Neural Network Approach for Short-Term Production Estimation of a Wind Power Plant.
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Famoso, Fabio, Oliveri, Ludovica Maria, Brusca, Sebastian, and Chiacchio, Ferdinando
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WIND power plants , *ARTIFICIAL neural networks , *TURBINE generators , *BLOCK diagrams , *WIND turbines , *WIND power - Abstract
This paper presents a novel approach to estimating short-term production of wind farms, which are made up of numerous turbine generators. It harnesses the power of big data through a blend of data-driven and model-based methods. Specifically, it combines an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for immediate future predictions of wind turbine power output with a stochastic model for dependability, using Hybrid Reliability Block Diagrams. A thorough state-of-the-art review has been conducted in order to demonstrate the applicability of an ANN for non-linear stochastic problems of energy or power forecast estimation. The study leverages an innovative cluster analysis to group wind turbines and reduce the computational effort of the ANN, with a dependability model that improves the accuracy of the data-driven output estimation. Therefore, the main novelty is the employment of a hybrid model that combines an ANN with a dependability stochastic model that accounts for the realistic operational scenarios of wind turbines, including their susceptibility to random shutdowns This approach marks a significant advancement in the field, introducing a methodology which can aid the design and the power production forecast. The research has been applied to a case study of a 24 MW wind farm located in the south of Italy, characterized by 28 turbines. The findings demonstrate that the integrated model significantly enhances short-term wind-energy production estimation, achieving a 480% improvement in accuracy over the solo-clustering approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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35. Smart City Scenario Editor for General What-If Analysis.
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Adreani, Lorenzo, Bellini, Pierfrancesco, Bilotta, Stefano, Bologna, Daniele, Collini, Enrico, Fanfani, Marco, and Nesi, Paolo
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SMART cities , *CITIES & towns , *TRAFFIC congestion , *GEOGRAPHIC information systems , *LEGACY systems - Abstract
Due to increasing urbanization, nowadays, cities are facing challenges spanning multiple domains such as mobility, energy, environment, etc. For example, to reduce traffic congestion, energy consumption, and excessive pollution, big data gathered from legacy systems (e.g., sensors not conformant with modern standards), geographic information systems, gateways of public administrations, and Internet of Things technologies can be exploited to provide insights to assess the current status of a city. Moreover, the possibility to perform what-if analyses is fundamental to analyzing the impact of possible changes in the urban environment. The few available solutions for scenario definitions and analyses are limited to addressing a single domain and providing proprietary formats and tools, with scarce flexibility. Therefore, in this paper, we present a novel scenario model and editor integrated into the open-source Snap4City.org platform to enable several processing and what-if analyses in multiple domains. Different from state-of-the-art software, the proposed solution responds to a series of identified requirements, implements NGSIv2-compliant data models with formal descriptions of the urban context, and a scenario versioning method. Moreover, it allows us to carry out analyses on different domains, as shown with some examples. As a case study, a traffic congestion analysis is provided, confirming the validity and usefulness of the proposed solution. This work was developed in the context of CN MOST, the National Center on Sustainable Mobility in Italy, and for the Tourismo EC project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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36. The specialized pediatric palliative care service in Italy: how is it working? Results of the nationwide PalliPed study.
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Benini, Franca, Mercante, Anna, Di Nunzio, Sara, Papa, Simonetta, The PalliPed Working Group, Agosto, Caterina, Albanesi, Beatrice, Amarri, Sergio, Avagnina, Irene, Barbugian, Elisa, Basile, Rosaria, Bellagamba, Ornella, Bellini, Francesca, Beltrami, Cristina, Bignamini, Elisabetta, Bolognani, Marco, Campagna, Marta, Carraro, Caterina, Catalano, Gaetano, and Catalano, Igor
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CROSS-sectional method , *PALLIATIVE treatment , *MEDICAL quality control , *RESEARCH funding , *SCIENTIFIC observation , *CHILD health services , *MEDICAL care , *QUESTIONNAIRES , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *PEDIATRICS , *HEALTH facilities , *MEDICAL referrals - Abstract
Background: Accurate estimation of the specialized pediatric palliative care (PPC) burden and the definition of the extent and quality of PPC service in Italy represent urgent needs to enable the proper allocation of PPC resources and the definition of prevention and educational plans. The PalliPed project aimed to provide the first comprehensive assessment of the characteristics of Italian patients requiring PPC, the quality and extent of regional PPC networks/facilities, and the number of dedicated resources. In this paper, we present the results of the second part of the project, regarding the implementation and quality of PPC services in Italy. Methods: The PalliPed study had an observational cross-sectional design. All Italian specialized PPC centers/facilities were invited to participate in the project and complete a survey on the characteristics of PPC centers/facilities in different care settings, reporting data as of 24 October 2022. Data were collected online. Results: 19 PPC specialized centers/facilities from 12 Italian regions and two autonomous provinces responded to the survey. Among them, 11 are regional referral centers. Seven Italian regions out of 20 reported no PPC centers/facilities, mainly in central-southern Italy. Less than half (45%) of the regional referral centers cover the entire regional territory, and three offer 24/7 service. Ten centers have a dedicated team. Half of the eight non-referral centers offer 24/7 service and have a dedicated team. A total of 1,092 patients were reported by 18 centers as of 24 October 2022. Over the years, an increasing number of patients has been reported, rising from 1,202 (2019) to 1,544 (2021). The dedicated staff is inadequate, and most healthcare providers are not recognized at an institutional level. A shortage of 'young' staff and a lack of specific training was reported, particularly among nurses (77% had no training in PPC). Conclusions: The results obtained show how training, information, and research interventions are still necessary for the reorganization of the available resources and definition of proper strategies to respond dynamically to the new emerging needs of these populations. At the same time, our study represents a first step in defining a national registry of PPC models, useful for monitoring evolutions, and critical issues and planning any new or corrective strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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37. Clusterisation and Temporal Trends of Heat Flux by UAS Thermal Camera.
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Marotta, Enrica, Peluso, Rosario, Avino, Rosario, Avvisati, Gala, Bellucci Sessa, Eliana, Belviso, Pasquale, Caputo, Teresa, Carandente, Antonio, Cirillo, Francesca, and Pescione, Romano Antonio
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HEAT flux , *CAMERAS , *VOLCANOES , *CALDERAS , *LAVA - Abstract
Analysis of a series of thermal mappings obtained by UAS flights on quiescent volcanoes requires some special techniques to be performed. The main challenge is represented by the difficulty of separating hot and cold pixels in areas where their temperatures are quite similar. This task is indeed much simpler, for example, for lava flows where the temperature differences between the hot lava and the cold soil is rather big. This paper shows various software developed in order to perform this extraction and calculate the trends over time of both the average temperature and the heat flux from the soil. This prototypal implementation used thermal flights performed over a time span of a few years on an area in the Campi Flegrei caldera in southern Italy. Standard image manipulation techniques were used to segmentate and clusterise each thermal mapping in order to reduce the thermal anomalies to some sets of simpler features characterised by their fundamental parameters. The temporal trends of some physical parameters (temperature, heat flux, etc.) were extracted from these sets, and we found interesting results necessary for correlations and for ongoing research with other parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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38. Healthcare migration in Italian paediatric haematology-oncology centres belonging to AIEOP.
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Rondelli, Roberto, Belotti, Tamara, Masetti, Riccardo, Locatelli, Franco, Massimino, Maura, Biffi, Alessandra, Dufour, Carlo, Fagioli, Franca, Menna, Giuseppe, Biondi, Andrea, Favre, Claudio, Zecca, Marco, Santoro, Nicola, Russo, Giovanna, Perrotta, Silverio, Pession, Andrea, and Prete, Arcangelo
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EMIGRATION & immigration , *CANCER treatment , *HEALTH services accessibility , *TUMORS in children , *FISHER exact test , *NOMADS , *ONCOLOGY , *CHI-squared test , *MANN Whitney U Test , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *HEMATOLOGY , *KAPLAN-Meier estimator , *LOG-rank test , *SPECIALTY hospitals , *OVERALL survival ,DIAGNOSIS of tumors in children - Abstract
Background: In Italy, there is a network of centres headed by the Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (AIEOP) for the diagnosis and treatment of paediatric cancers on almost the entire national territory. Nevertheless, migration of patients in a hospital located in a region different from that of residence is a widespread habit, sometimes motivated by several reasons. The aim of this paper is to assess the impact of migration of children with cancer to AIEOP centres in order to verify their optimal distribution throughout the national territory. Methods: To this purpose, we used information on 41,205 registered cancer cases in the database of Mod.1.01 Registry from AIEOP centres, with age of less than 20 years old at diagnosis, diagnosed from 1988 to 2017. Patients' characteristics were analysed and compared using the X2 or Fisher's exact test or Mann–Whitney test, when appropriate. Survival distributions were estimated using the method of Kaplan and Meier, and the log-rank test was used to examine differences among subgroups. Results: Extra-regional migration involved overall 19.5% of cases, ranging from 23.3% (1988–1997) to 16.4% (2008–2017) (p < 0.001). In leukaemias and lymphomas we observed a mean migration of 8.8% overall, lower in the North (1.2%) and Centre (7.8%) compared to the South & Isles (32.3%). In the case of solid tumours, overall migration was 25.7%, with 4.2% in the North, 17.2% in the Centre and 59.6% in the South & Isles. For regions with overall levels of migration higher than the national average, most migration cases opted for AIEOP centres of close or even neighbouring regions. Overall survival at 10 years from diagnosis results 69.9% in migrants vs 78.3% in no migrants (p < 0.001). Conclusions: There is still a certain amount of domestic migration, the causes of which can be easily identified: migration motivated by a search for high specialization, migration due to lack of local facilities, or regions in which no AIEOP centres are present, which makes migration obligatory. Better coordination between AIEOP centres could help to reduce so-called avoidable migration, but technical and political choices will have to be considered, with the active participation of sector technicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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39. FOCA: a new quality-controlled database of floods and catchment descriptors in Italy.
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Claps, Pierluigi, Evangelista, Giulia, Ganora, Daniele, Mazzoglio, Paola, and Monforte, Irene
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DATABASES , *RAINFALL measurement , *FLOODS , *DIGITAL elevation models , *ACQUISITION of data - Abstract
Here we present FOCA (Italian FlOod and Catchment Atlas), the first systematic collection of data on Italian river catchments for which historical discharge time series are available. Hydrometric information, including the annual maximum peak discharge and average daily annual maximum discharge, is complemented by several geomorphological, climatological, extreme rainfall, land-cover and soil-related catchment attributes. All hydrological information derives from the most recently released datasets of discharge and rainfall measurements. To enhance the reproducibility and transferability of the analysis, this paper provides a description of all the raw data and the algorithms used to build the basin attribute dataset. We also describe the approaches adopted to solve problems encountered during the digital elevation model elaboration in areas characterized by a complex morphology. Details about the data quality-control procedure developed to detect and correct errors are also reported. One of the main novelties of FOCA with respect to other national-scale datasets is the inclusion of a rich set of geomorphological attributes and extreme rainfall features for a large set of basins covering a wide range of elevations and areas. Using this first nationwide data collection (available at 10.5281/zenodo.10446258, Claps et al., 2023), a wide range of environmental applications, with a particular focus on flood studies, can be undertaken within the Italian territory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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40. Optimal design of short-period structures equipped with sliding tuned liquid column damper and numerical and experimental control performance evaluation.
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Masnata, Chiara, Adam, Christoph, and Pirrotta, Antonina
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COLUMNS , *STRUCTURAL dynamics , *LIQUIDS , *MODELS & modelmaking , *MATHEMATICAL models - Abstract
In this paper, the structural vibration control of short-period systems by a sliding model of a tuned liquid column damper (herein referred to as STLCD) is investigated from both theoretical and experimental points of view. The proposed STLCD is essentially composed of a U-tube container with liquid inside, which can slide on a linear guide rail and is connected to the structure by a spring-dashpot system. Unlike traditional fixed TLCDs, this type of arrangement allows the proposed STLCD to be tuned to short-period structural systems since the spring can be used for tuning while the dashpot provides additional damping. Details on the selection of the optimal design parameters of the STLCD are provided, and the validity of the introduced mathematical model is verified both in time and frequency domains through experimental tests conducted at the Laboratory of Experimental Dynamics at the University of Palermo, Italy. For the experimental tests, a scale model of an STLCD-controlled structure is considered, focusing on the reduction of the roof accelerations. Finally, for comparison purposes, the control performance of the proposed control strategy for the vibration suppression of stiff structures is evaluated by analyzing its structural responses in contrast with the corresponding uncontrolled structure under harmonic excitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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41. Crafts and Their Social Imaginary: How Technological Development Shapes the Future of the Crafts Sector.
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Kofler, Ingrid and Walder, Maximilian
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TECHNOLOGICAL innovations , *SOCIAL dynamics , *DATA modeling , *INSIGHT , *DIGITAL technology , *FOCUS groups , *CLIMATE change - Abstract
The crafts sector, traditionally characterized by its adherence to heritage and small-scale familial enterprises, confronts an array of unprecedented challenges stemming from rapid technological advancement, globalization, climate change, and shifting demographics. This article presents a pioneering investigation into the profound and transformative effects of digitalization on the crafts sector, offering novel insights into the future trajectory of this industry. Through an explorative approach, we critically examine and interrogate the social imaginary underpinning the crafts sector, shedding light on the intricate interplay between tradition and innovation. Leveraging an inter- and transdisciplinary framework, our research brings together academics, experts, and practitioners from diverse regions in Italy and Austria to explore the nexus of digitalization and craft futures. We introduce three future scenarios for the crafts sector, each delineating varying degrees of digitalization and their potential implications. Employing a mixed-method approach encompassing expert interviews, a Delphi survey, focus groups, and scenario development, our study offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted landscape of craft futures. Furthermore, through the visualization of these scenarios, we provide a tangible platform for envisioning and engaging with the myriad possibilities that lie ahead. By synthesizing innovative methodologies from future studies and social imaginaries with a specific focus on the crafts sector, our research offers a robust analytical framework for navigating the complex dynamics of digitalization and envisioning transformative futures. This paper not only illuminates the disruptive forces unleashed by digitalization but also provides strategic insights to inform future decision-making processes within the crafts sector and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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42. Reinforcement Learning for Energy Community Management: A European-Scale Study †.
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Palma, Giulia, Guiducci, Leonardo, Stentati, Marta, Rizzo, Antonio, and Paoletti, Simone
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REINFORCEMENT learning , *ENERGY management , *BATTERY storage plants , *RENEWABLE energy sources , *LEARNING communities - Abstract
Efficient management of renewable energy resources is imperative for promoting environmental sustainability and optimizing the utilization of clean energy sources. This paper presents a pioneering European-scale study on energy management within renewable energy communities (RECs). With a primary focus on enhancing the social welfare of the community, we introduce a reinforcement learning (RL) controller designed to strategically manage Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) and orchestrate energy flows. This research transcends geographical boundaries by conducting an extended analysis of various energy communities and diverse energy markets across Europe, encompassing different regions of Italy. Our methodology involves the implementation of an RL controller, leveraging optimal control theory for training and utilizing only real-time data available at the current time step during the test phase. Through simulations conducted in diverse contexts, we demonstrate the superior performance of our RL agent compared to a state-of-the-art rule-based controller. The agent exhibits remarkable adaptability to various scenarios, consistently surpassing existing rule-based controllers. Notably, we illustrate that our approach aligns with the intricate patterns observed in both Italian and European energy markets, achieving performance levels comparable to an optimal controller assuming perfect theoretical knowledge of future data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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43. Electric Vehicle Charging from Tramway Infrastructure: A New Concept and the Turin Case Study.
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Prussi, Matteo, Cota, Alfredo Felix, Laveneziana, Lorenzo, Chiantera, Giuseppe, and Guglielmi, Paolo
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CITIES & towns , *ELECTRIC vehicles , *VOLTAGE regulators , *STREET railroads , *ALTERNATIVE fuels , *KINETIC energy , *ELECTRIFICATION - Abstract
The electrification of transport is expected to progressively replace significant shares of light duty mobility, especially in large cities. The European Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) aims to drive the adoption of electric mobility by establishing specific targets for charging point deployment. Innovative charging concepts may complement and accelerate the uptake of this fundamental part of the urban mobility transition. In this paper, one such innovative concept is described and its potential impact is assessed. The core idea involves integrating charging points into existing city tramway infrastructures. Turin's tramway network is taken as a representative case study. The proposed technical solution encompasses a charging hub powered by four isolated DC/DC converters of 50 kW, directly connected to the DC tramway distribution line. Three of these constitute the heart of a 150 kW charger, while the fourth acts as voltage regulator. This native DC installation greatly simplifies the architecture of the DC chargers. Using a conservative approach, it was estimated that a single recharging station could charge more than 60 vehicles daily. This highly scalable and replicable solution, with the potential for over 100 conversion substations across Italy, would enable the installation of numerous high-power chargers in urban settings. Furthermore, additional benefits could be realized through enhanced recovery of kinetic energy from trams, which is currently dissipated on-board. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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44. Why are some countries rich and others poor? development and validation of the attributions for Cross-Country Inequality Scale (ACIS).
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Vezzoli, Michela, Valtorta, Roberta Rosa, Gáspár, Attila, Cervone, Carmen, Durante, Federica, Maass, Anne, and Suitner, Caterina
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FACTOR structure , *WEALTH inequality , *INCOME inequality , *EXPLORATORY factor analysis , *CONFIRMATORY factor analysis , *WEALTH distribution , *ATTRIBUTION (Social psychology) - Abstract
Understanding lay theories on the causes of economic inequality is the first step to comprehending why people tolerate, justify, or react against it. Accordingly, this paper aims to develop and validate with two cross-sectional studies the Attributions for Cross-Country Inequality Scale (ACIS), which assesses how people explain cross-country economic inequality–namely, the uneven distribution of income and wealth between poor and rich countries. After selecting and adapting items from existing scales of attributions for poverty and wealth, in Study 1, we tested the factorial structure of this initial pool of items in three countries with different levels of economic development and inequality, namely, Italy (n = 246), the UK (n = 248), and South Africa (n = 228). Three causal dimensions emerged from the Exploratory Factor Analysis: "rich countries" (blaming the systematic advantage of and exploitation by rich countries), "poor countries" (blaming the dispositional inadequacy and faults of poor countries), and "fate" (blaming destiny and luck). The retained items were administered in Study 2 to three new samples from Italy (n = 239), the UK (n = 249), and South Africa (n = 248). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) corroborated the factorial structure of the ACIS, and Multi-Group CFA supported configural and metric invariances of the scale across countries. In addition, we show internal consistency and construct validity of the scale: the scale correlates with relevant constructs (e.g., beliefs about cross-country inequality and ideological orientation) and attitudes toward relevant policies related to international redistribution and migration. Overall, the scale is a valid instrument to assess causal attribution for cross-national inequality and is reliable across countries. By focusing on resource distribution from an international perspective, this scale will allow researchers to broaden the discussion on economic inequality to a global level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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45. How to Manage Advanced Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: Step-by-Step Analysis from Two Italian Tertiary Referral Centers.
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Sartori, Paola Vincenza, Andreani, Sara, De Pasquale, Loredana, Pauna, Iuliana, Bulfamante, Antonio Mario, Aiello, Paolo Salvatore Lorenzo, Melcarne, Rossella, Giacomelli, Laura, and Boniardi, Marco
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THYROID cancer , *DISEASE relapse , *OVERALL survival - Abstract
Background: Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) has an excellent prognosis; however, advanced disease is associated with a worse prognosis and is relatively common. Surgery followed by RAI treatment remains the mainstream treatment for a large majority of patients with high- and intermediate-risk DTC, but its benefits should be carefully weighed against the potential for harm. The aim of this paper is to critically review the experience in treating advanced DTC at two tertiary referral centers in Italy. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 300 patients who underwent surgery for ADTC over 30 years. Results: The complication rate was 50.33%. A total of 135 patients (45%) remained at regular follow-up, 118 (87.4%) were alive, while 17 (12.6%) were deceased. The mean overall survival at 12 years was 84.8% with a mean of 238 months. Eleven patients (8.1%) experienced a relapse after a median of 13 months. Conclusions: ADTC patients adequately treated can achieve prolonged survival even in the case of metastasis or disease relapse. Patients with ADTC should be referred to high-volume centers with the availability of an extended multidisciplinary team to receive tailored treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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46. Dawn of the Delphinidans: New Remains of Kentriodon from the Lower Miocene of Italy Shed Light on the Early Radiation of the Most Diverse Extant Cetacean Clade.
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Nobile, Francesco, Collareta, Alberto, Perenzin, Vittore, Fornaciari, Eliana, Giusberti, Luca, and Bianucci, Giovanni
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TOOTHED whales , *PREDATORY aquatic animals , *CETACEA , *MIOCENE Epoch , *MARINE mammals , *EAR ossicles - Abstract
Simple Summary: Nowadays, the infraorder Delphinida consists of oceanic dolphins and porpoises plus a handful of riverine and (sub-)Arctic forms. Overall, the delphinidans account for more than half of the living cetacean species, thus comprising the core of present-day marine mammal diversity. The fossil record indicates that a critical phase of the evolutionary history of Delphinida occurred during the Early Miocene (c. 23.0–16.0 million years ago) when the extinct genus Kentriodon first appeared and became widespread worldwide. Our paper deals with a new delphinidan fossil from northeastern Italy, namely, an incomplete skull with ear bones dating back to 20.4–19.0 million years ago. This new specimen is recognized herein as a representative of Kentriodon and specifically as the first unambiguous member of this genus from the Euro-Mediterranean region. Our new find represents the best candidate for being the most ancient member of Kentriodon. The evolutionary success of Kentriodon (which lasted until the Late Miocene, less than 11.3 million years ago) may have been favored by the evolution of a peculiar biosonar system exploiting narrow-band high-frequency sounds, which in turn would have been hardly detectable by large-bodied, predatory toothed whales. Furthermore, Kentriodon was seemingly characterized by a proportionally larger brain compared to many coeval toothed whales, which in turn may evoke enhanced behavioral capabilities. Nowadays, the infraorder Delphinida (oceanic dolphins and kin) represents the most diverse extant clade of Cetacea, with delphinids alone accounting for more than 40% of the total number of living cetacean species. As for other cetacean groups, the Early Miocene represents a key interval for the evolutionary history of Delphinida, as it was during this time span that the delphinidans became broadly distributed worldwide, first and foremost with the widespread genus Kentriodon and closely related forms. Here, we report on a new odontocete find from Burdigalian (20.4–19.0 Ma) deposits of the Friulian-Venetian Basin of northeastern Italy, consisting of the partial cranium of a small delphinidan with associated ear bones (right periotic, stapes, malleus and tympanic bulla). Osteoanatomical considerations and comparisons allow us to assign the studied specimen to the genus Kentriodon. This is the first confirmed record of Kentriodon from Europe as well as from the whole proto-Mediterranean region. Stratigraphic and phylogenetic considerations suggest that our new specimen may represent the geologically oldest member of Kentriodon. The evolutionary success of Kentriodon may correlate with the emergence of narrow-band high-frequency echolocation as a possible strategy to escape acoustic detection by large marine predators such as the squalodontids. In addition, the relatively high encephalization quotient of Kentriodon spp. may have provided these early dolphins with some kind of competitive advantage over the coeval non-delphinidan odontocetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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47. Integrated Pest Management Strategies to Control Varroa Mites and Their Effect on Viral Loads in Honey Bee Colonies.
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Bubnič, Jernej, Prešern, Janez, Pietropaoli, Marco, Cersini, Antonella, Moškrič, Ajda, Formato, Giovanni, Manara, Veronica, and Smodiš Škerl, Maja Ivana
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HONEYBEES , *VIRAL load , *ACARICIDES , *BEE colonies , *INTEGRATED pest control , *MITE control , *OXALIC acid - Abstract
Simple Summary: The aim of the study was to evaluate the viral load in honey bee colonies after adopting two brood interruption techniques that are used to control varroa mite. We evaluated the efficacy of two integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, "Queen Caging" (QC) and "Trapping Comb" (TC) procedures, in conjunction with an oxalic acid treatment, to control varroa infestations and consequently lower the viral loads of Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) and Acute Bee Paralysis Virus (ABPV). Two distinct apiaries in Slovenia and Italy, each with a different climate, served as the research sites. In the experiment, the adult bee viral load, mite fall, colony strength, and acaricide efficiency were assessed. The study indicated that the TC approach might be more successful in lowering viral loads. Our results also showed that the acaricidal efficacy of the applied IPM protocols is high. Our study is the first attempt to assess viral infections in honey bees after IPM adoption. The results show the potential advantages of using targeted varroa treatments in combination with brood interruption strategies to manage honey bee viruses vectored by varroa mite. Honey bee viruses in combination with varroa mite are very damaging for honey bee colonies worldwide. There are no effective methods to control the viral load in honey bee colonies except regular and effective control of mites. Integrated Pest Management strategies are required to effectively control mites with veterinary medicines based on organic compounds. We evaluated the effect of two brood interruption techniques, queen caging (QC) and trapping comb (TC), followed by an oxalic acid treatment, on the mite fall, colony strength, and viral load of Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) and Acute Bee Paralysis Virus (ABPV). In this paper, we report the data obtained in two experimental sites, in Slovenia and Italy, in terms of the varroacide efficacy, colony strength, and viral load. The number of adult bees after the adoption of the two techniques showed similar decreasing trends in both locations. The viral load of Acute Bee Paralysis Virus did not show any significant reduction after 25 days, reported as the number of Real-Time PCR cycles needed to detect the virus. The viral load of DWV also did not show a significant reduction after 25 days. The acaricidal efficacy of the applied protocols was high in both experimental groups and in both apiaries. Both the queen caging and trapping comb techniques, followed by an oxalic acid treatment, can be considered effective varroa treatment strategies, but further studies should be carried out to evaluate the long-term effects on viral loads to plan the Integrated Pest Management strategy with the right timing before wintering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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48. Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) time series and velocities about a slowly convergent margin processed on high-performance computing (HPC) clusters: products and robustness evaluation.
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Tunini, Lavinia, Magrin, Andrea, Rossi, Giuliana, and Zuliani, David
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GLOBAL Positioning System , *EARTHQUAKE hazard analysis - Abstract
The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) is a well-known and fundamental tool for crustal monitoring projects and tectonic studies, thanks to its high coverage and the high quality of the data they provide. In particular, at slowly convergent margins, where deformation rates are of the order of a few millimetres per year, GNSS monitoring proves to be beneficial in detecting the diffuse deformation responsible for tectonic stress accrual. Its strength lies in the high precision achieved by GNSS permanent stations, especially when long-term data and stable structures are available at the stations. North-eastern Italy is a tectonically active region located in the northernmost sector of the Adria microplate, slowly converging with the Eurasia plate, characterized by low deformation rates and moderate seismicity. It greatly benefits from continuous and high-precision geodetic monitoring, since it has been equipped with a permanent GNSS network providing real-time data and daily observations over 2 decades. The Friuli Venezia Giulia Deformation Network (FReDNet) was established in the area in 2002 to monitor crustal deformation and contribute to the regional seismic hazard assessment. This paper describes GNSS time series spanning 2 decades of stations located in north-eastern Italy and surroundings as well as the outgoing velocity field. The documented dataset has been retrieved by processing the GNSS observations with the GAMIT/GLOBK software ver10.71, which allows calculation of high-precision coordinate time series, position and velocity for each GNSS station by taking advantage of the high-performance computing resources of the Italian High-Performance Computing Centre (CINECA) clusters. The GNSS observations (raw and standard RINEX – Receiver INdependent EXchange – formats) and the time series estimated with the same procedure are currently daily continued, collected and stored in the framework of a long-term monitoring project. Instead, velocity solutions are intended for annual updates. The time series and velocity field dataset documented here are available on Zenodo (10.5281/zenodo.8055800, Tunini et al., 2024). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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49. Charisma and Memory in a Spiritual Community: The Case of Damanhur in Italy.
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Ghio, Alberto
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CHARISMA , *SOCIAL evolution , *SCIENTIFIC literature , *CHARISMATIC authority , *RELIGIOUS thought , *MEMORY - Abstract
This paper explores the dynamic relationship between the spiritual community of Damanhur and its founder, Oberto Airaudi. Scholars consider Airaudi to be an example of Weberian charismatic leadership that was sui generis; the community, however, experienced an early routinisation, which granted it longevity and stability. Doctrinal and social evolution instead suggests a change in this charismatic relationship over the years, which occurred in four phases. His charisma passed from the ability to perform occult practices (occultist), to ideate a syncretic cosmology centred on Damanhur (religious), eventually allowing him to become an "inspirer from the outside" (inspirational). The last phase explains the survival and partial routinisation of the charisma after his death (post mortem). The study primarily relies on the analysis of Damanhurian writings, with a particular focus on the initial ten years. It also incorporates qualitative data from fieldwork and ethnographic material available in the scientific literature. The analysis suggests that Damanhur did not start as a charismatic community but as a social experiment. The development of Airaudi's charisma, via a syncretic mythology based on a religious concept of memory, absorbed Damanhur's social dimension, shaping it according to a collective spiritual endeavour aimed at reconnecting human beings with their divine inner nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. Implementation of an On-Line Reactive Source Apportionment (ORSA) Algorithm in the FARM Chemical-Transport Model and Application over Multiple Domains in Italy.
- Author
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Calori, Giuseppe, Briganti, Gino, Uboldi, Francesco, Pepe, Nicola, D'Elia, Ilaria, Mircea, Mihaela, Marras, Gian Franco, and Piersanti, Antonio
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AIR quality management , *CARBONACEOUS aerosols , *ATMOSPHERIC sciences , *GAS phase reactions , *THERMODYNAMIC equilibrium , *CHEMICAL species - Abstract
A source apportionment scheme based on gas and aerosol phase reactive tracers has been implemented in the chemical-transport model FARM, to efficiently estimate contributions of different sources to ambient concentrations. The on-line scheme deals with all the main processes that the chemical species undergo in the model, to enhance consistency with the calculation of bulk concentrations. The fate of precursors through gas-phase chemical reactions is followed by an efficient solver that determines their incremental reactivity, while the contributions to the secondary particulate species from their gaseous precursors is determined by assuming the thermodynamic equilibrium between the two phases. The paper details the new employed methodologies and illustrates the application of the apportionment scheme (based on 6 source sectors) to PM10 and O3, simulated on three domains of different dimensions in Italy, all sharing the same horizontal resolution and a common region (Lombardy). Spatial patterns of results show, on average, a relevant contribution of heating on PM10 concentration in January, with local hotspots dominated by road traffic. Contributions appear consistent in the three simulated domains, apart from the boundary conditions, influenced by the dimension of the domain. Hourly series of contributions to O3 concentrations in July at three selected sites show the dominance of boundary conditions, underlining the large scale of O3 formation. Finally, for PM10 components, the resulting sectorial contributions are compared with the impacts computed via the brute force method, showing that results are similar for elemental carbon and sulfate, while they are different for nitrate and ammonium, due to a different allocation of contributions and impacts between the methods. Each approach responds in principle to a different purpose, and their combined use provides possibly a wide set of information useful for addressing the different air quality management needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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