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Since volcanic activity was first discovered on Io from Voyager images in 1979, changes on Io's surface have been monitored from both spacecraft and ground‐based telescopes. Here, we present the highest spatial resolution images of Io ever obtained from a ground‐based telescope. These images, acquired by the SHARK‐VIS instrument on the Large Binocular Telescope, show evidence of a major resurfacing event on Io's trailing hemisphere. When compared to the most recent spacecraft images, the SHARK‐VIS images show that a plume deposit from a powerful eruption at Pillan Patera has covered part of the long‐lived Pele plume deposit. Although this type of resurfacing event may be common on Io, few have been detected due to the rarity of spacecraft visits and the previously low spatial resolution available from Earth‐based telescopes. The SHARK‐VIS instrument ushers in a new era of high resolution imaging of Io's surface using adaptive optics at visible wavelengths. Plain Language Summary: A new instrument, called SHARK‐VIS, on the Large Binocular Telescope in Arizona, has obtained high spatial resolution, visible wavelength images of Io, the highly volcanic moon of Jupiter. Large multicolored plume deposits were imaged, revealing where the red deposit from a volcano named Pele was covered by another plume deposit from another volcano, named Pillan Patera, the site of a powerful eruption in 2021. SHARK‐VIS ushers in a new age in planetary imaging. Key Points: High resolution images taken with SHARK‐VIS at LBT reveal low and high albedo features obscuring a portion of Pele's red ring on IoThis new eruption deposit likely originated from a powerful eruption in August 2021 located at Pillan PateraSuch images provide a new imaging capability that yields vital context to other observations of planetary surfaces [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a case of canaliculitis, a rare disease that affects the lower lacrimal canaliculus. The patient, a 93-year-old male, presented with an eroded lesion on the eyelid margin that had been growing slowly over the past two years. The clinical examination alone was not sufficient for an accurate diagnosis, so dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) were used to further evaluate the lesion. An excisional biopsy confirmed the presence of chronic canaliculitis. The article emphasizes the importance of a thorough and methodical approach in diagnosing this rare condition and highlights the need for biopsy and histological assessment to rule out skin malignancies. [Extracted from the article]

INTRODUCTION: Neurogranin (Ng) is considered a biomarker for synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In contrast, the inflammasome complex has been shown to exacerbate AD pathology. METHODS: We investigated the protein expression, morphological differences of Ng, and correlated Ng to hyperphosphorylated tau in the post mortem brains of 17 AD cases and 17 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. In addition, we correlated the Ng expression with two different epitopes of apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC). RESULTS: We show a reduction of Ng immunopositive neurons and morphological differences in AD compared to controls. Ng immunostaining was negatively correlated with neurofibrillary tangles, humanized anti‐ASC (IC100) positive neurons and anti‐ASC positive microglia, in AD. DISCUSSION: The finding of a negative correlation between Ng and ASC speck protein expression in post mortem brains of AD suggests that the activation of inflammasome/ASC speck pathway may play an important role in synaptic degeneration in AD. Highlights: We show the role that neurogranin plays on post‐synaptic signaling in specific hippocampal regions.We demonstrate that there could be clinical implications of using neurogranin as a biomarker for dementia.We describe the loss of plasticity and neuronal scaffolding proteins in the present of AD pathology.We show the response of neuroinflammation when tau proteins phosphorylate in hippocampal neurons.We show that there is a potential therapeutic target for the inflammasome, and future studies may show that IC100, a humanized monoclonal antibody directed against ASC, may slow the progression of neurodegeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we firstly report on the use of highly active and selective Aquivion superacid resins as heterogeneous catalysts for the acylation of 1,2‐methylenedioxybenzene (MDB) with propionic anhydride (AP). The reaction was investigated and optimized using solvent‐free conditions to selectively produce 3,4‐methylenedioxypropiophenone (MDP1P), a key intermediate for the manufacture of active ingredients used in insecticide formulations with a volume of production of roughly 3000 t/y. Interestingly, Aquivion‐based catalysts allows to work in mild reaction conditions (i. e. 80 °C), obtaining MDP1P yields as high as 44 % after only 1 h of reaction (selectivity 83 %). A detailed study of the AP reactivity demonstrated its tendency to promote oligomerization reactions that, as confirmed by ex‐situ and in‐situ FT‐ATR analyses, caused the deactivation of the catalyst forming surficial carbonaceous residues. In this context, a fast oxidation of the resin surface organic residues using a diluted HNO3 (or H2O2) solution was proven to be an efficient method to regenerate the catalyst, which can be reused for several reaction cycles. The results obtained in preliminary scale‐up tests were basically unaffected by the reaction volume (up to 800 mL), paving the way for possible future applications of the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent excavations at Palù di Livenza (northeastern Italy) revealed a multiphase Neolithic pile dwelling dated between ca. 4,300/4200 and 3,600 cal BC. Three lumps with teeth imprints and a larger amorphous piece from the Late Neolithic layers have been studied by X‐ray computed micro‐tomography (microCT) and synchrotron Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). FTIR spectra match well that of birch bark tar and microCT of the larger piece has revealed a rolled‐up structure likely corresponding to bark rolls. The lumps of birch pitch were probably chewed to soften the tar prior to be used as hafting adhesive or therapeutic substance. The rolled‐up inner structure of the larger piece and the remains of birch bark tar and abundant charcoals on its surface suggest it probably corresponds to a rare waste product from allothermic tar production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that destroys memory and cognitive function. Inflammasome activation has been suggested to play a critical role in the neuroinflammatory response in AD progression, but the cell‐type expression of inflammasome proteins in the brain has not been fully characterized. In this study, we used samples from the hippocampus formation, the subiculum, and the entorhinal cortex brain from 17 donors with low‐level AD pathology and 17 intermediate AD donors to assess the expression of inflammasome proteins. We performed analysis of hippocampal thickness, β‐amyloid plaques, and hyperphosphorylated tau to ascertain the cellular pathological changes that occur between low and intermediate AD pathology. Next, we determined changes in the cells that express the inflammasome sensor proteins NOD‐like receptor proteins (NLRP) 1 and 3, and caspase‐1. In addition, we stained section with IC100, a humanized monoclonal antibody directed against the inflammasome adaptor protein apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), and a commercially available anti‐ASC antibody. Our results indicate that hippocampal cortical thickness did not significantly change between low and intermediate AD pathology, but there was an increase in pTau and β‐amyloid clusters in intermediate AD cases. NLRP3 was identified mainly in microglial populations, whereas NLRP1 was seen in neuronal cytoplasmic regions. There was a significant increase of ASC in neurons labeled by IC100, whereas microglia in the hippocampus and subiculum were labeled with the commercial anti‐ASC antibody. Caspase‐1 was present in the parenchyma in the CA regions where amyloid and pTau were identified. Together, our results indicate increased inflammasome protein expression in the early pathological stages of AD, that IC100 identifies neurons in early stages of AD and that ASC expression correlates with Aβ and pTau in postmortem AD brains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The global ageing population is rising with each year, and with that, the percentage of individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is expected to rise in parallel. Along with age, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is another risk factor for AD. TBI and AD patients demonstrate abnormal inflammatory responses, including that of the inflammasome. The inflammasome is a multi‐protein complex of the innate immune system, that leads to the release of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐18 through caspase‐1 and apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC). Pyroptosis, a form of inflammatory cell death, also occurs via gasdermin‐D cleavage by caspase‐1. Our laboratory has previously demonstrated that genetic predisposition to AD can worsen acute inflammasome activation and outcome after TBI, but the chronic effects of TBI with AD have not been studied. Method: The 3xTg model of early‐onset familial AD was used, along with their B6129SF2 (WT) controls. AD and WT mice underwent either sham surgery or controlled cortical impact (CCI) and were sacrificed 3‐months post‐injury. Cortical lysates were collected and probed for inflammasome proteins and pro‐inflammatory cytokines via immunoblotting and ECLIAs. Brain sections were utilized for volumetric analysis and immunohistochemistry for inflammasome proteins and degenerative markers. Result: There was a significant increase in chronic IL‐1β in AD/TBI mice that was not present in WT/TBI mice. Furthermore, there were also increased levels of the inflammasome proteins NLRP3, caspase‐8, and ASC at 3‐months post‐injury in AD/TBI vs WT/TBI mice. AD/TBI demonstrated elevated expression of GFAP, a marker of astrogliosis, which co‐localized with ASC in immunohistochemical analyses. Injured mice showed increased neurofilament light protein, which also co‐localized with ASC. Finally, AD/TBI mice had significant loss of total cortical and hippocampal volume compared to WT/TBI mice. Conclusion: Our findings establish a chronic dysfunctional inflammatory response in TBI with a genetic predisposition to AD that is not seen in TBI alone. This suggests a unique injury progression that is affected by genetic predisposition to AD that calls for specialized treatment. In addition, due to the increased inflammasome response seen in our results, our conclusions indicate a promising role for the inflammasome as a treatment target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neurogranin (Ng) is considered a biomarker for synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD). In contrast, the inflammasome complex has been shown to exacerbate AD pathology. Method: We investigated the protein expression, morphological differences of Ng and correlated Ng to hyperphosphorylated tau in the postmortem brains of 17 AD cases and 17 age and sex‐matched controls. In addition, we correlated the Ng expression with two different epitopes of apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC). Result: We show a reduction of Ng immunopositive neurons and morphological differences in AD compared to controls. Ng immunostaining was negatively correlated with neurofibrillary tangles, humanized anti‐ASC (IC100) positive neurons and anti‐ ASC positive microglia, in AD. Conclusion: The finding of a negative correlation between Ng and ASC speck protein expression in postmortem brains of AD suggests that the activation of inflammasome/ASC speck pathway may play an important role in synaptic degeneration in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke and AD patients with gut complications often present worsened neurological outcomes. The goal of this study was to examine the role of extracellular vesicle (EV)‐mediated pyroptosis in the bi‐directional gut‐brain axis after photothrombotic stroke (PTS) in aged 3xTg mice and wildtype (WT) controls. Method: Twelve‐month 3xTg and WT male and female mice underwent PTS using a YAG laser. Lesion volume analysis was performed at 1‐month post‐PTS. At 24 hours after PTS, intestinal and cortical tissue was collected for Western Blot analysis for the following inflammasome proteins: caspase‐1, apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC), interleukin‐1b, and Gasdermin‐D (GSDMD). Additionally, brain and intestines were sectioned for immunohistochemical analysis of GSDMD and Amyloid‐Beta (Ab). In order to show changes in gut function, gut permeability was measured 72 hours post PTS using a FITC‐dextran assay. Moreover, we performed an adoptive transfer in which stool‐derived EVs collected from 3xTg‐ PTS and WT‐PTS mice were injected into naïve 3xTg and WT mice. Cortical lysates were examined for expression of inflammasome proteins, GSDMD, and Ab using Western Blot analysis. Results: 3xTg mice presented increased infarct volume compared to WT‐PTS mice one month after PTS. Based on Western blot analysis, we found that inflammasome proteins, GSDMD, and Ab were significantly increased in both intestinal and cortical tissue in 3xTg‐ PTS mice compared to WT‐ PTS mice at 24 hours post‐stroke. Results from the FITC‐Dextran assay showed that gut permeability was significantly increased in the aged 3xTg‐PTS mice compared to WT‐ PTS mice 72 hours post‐PTS. Additionally, our immunohistochemical analysis in both WT and 3xTg PTS mice presented evidence of activated/ameboid microglial morphology as well as the presence of GSDMD and Ab in the brain and intestines 72 hours after stroke. Lastly, we demonstrated increased levels of inflammasome proteins, GSDMD, and Ab after adoptive transfer. Conclusion: Taken together these results indicate an important role for EV signaling and pyroptosis in disruption of the bidirectional gut‐brain axis after stroke in aged 3xTg mice in an animal model of stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the network‐based on‐site earthquake early warning system (EEWS), the 'blind zone', namely the zone where the issued warning arrives later than the destructive S and surface waves, is one of the challenges affecting its effectiveness. The 'blind zone' is determined by the interstation distance, or equivalently the density of seismic stations, of the network. In this paper, we suggest a practical approach according to which, when in a region a temporary increase of seismic hazard is declared, additional stations are deployed in such a way that the blind zone is temporarily reduced. In the procedure, the time‐dependent neo‐deterministic seismic hazard assessment (TD‐NDSHA) plays a vital role in the identification of the regions potentially exposed to high macroseismic intensities. As a showcase example, we consider the scenario of year 2014 at the Sichuan‐Yunnan border of southwest China. The TD‐NDSHA is based on the standard NDSHA procedure at regional scale (bedrock conditions), with the 'controlling earthquakes' defined on the basis of the Annual Consultation. We show that the 'blind zone' can be reduced in the identified areas of interest (e.g., MMI ≥ VI), by deploying a limited number of additional seismic stations. In the case where false alarms can be tolerated, significant reduction of the 'blind zone' can be implemented by moving from a network‐based EEWS to a single‐sensor‐based EEWS and skipping the process of location and magnitude‐determination/prediction procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the findings of a global study on the treatment of local public entities in distress conducted in 20 jurisdictions across the world. It sets out to detail and analyses how different national insolvency law systems treat local public entities in distress. The main purpose of this study is to provide recommendations for a harmonised and principled treatment of these entities. The key priority of the recommendations proposed in the study is to ensure the continuity of essential public services without necessarily deviating from the established insolvency principles of collectivity and equality of treatment among creditors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild boar is the main sylvatic reservoir of the genotype 3 of hepatitis E virus (HEV). The occurrence of HEV‐3 human cases has been linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked pig and wild boar meat and liver. The zoonotic transmission of HEV‐3 has been confirmed by sequencing identical or strictly related viral strains in humans, wild boar and derived food. The HEV sequences classified within the HEV‐3 genotype are highly variable, and although only one serotype has been identified so far, the observed differences allow for the further classification of the HEV‐3 genotype into subtypes, named in alphabetical order. Compared to human and pig strains, an even higher heterogeneity is observed among strains infecting wild boar. In the present study, the genetic variability of eight HEV‐3 strains detected in wild boars sampled in a small geographical area in Central Italy (Lazio and Umbria regions) was investigated by full genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The strains were classified within the HEV‐3a, HEV‐3c, HEV‐3f subtypes and within two new recently proposed subtypes. Results demonstrate – despite the relatively small geographic area of origin – an unexpected divergence within HEV‐3 strains hosted by the investigated wild boar population and highlights the need for extensive sequencing of HEV in reservoirs to fully understand diversity, geographical distribution and evolution of this group of viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Mutations in the valosin‐containing protein (VCP) gene cause various lethal proteinopathies that mainly include inclusion body myopathy with Paget's disease of bone and frontotemporal dementia (IBMPFD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Different pathological mechanisms have been proposed. Here, we define the impact of VCP mutants on lysosomes and how cellular homeostasis is restored by inducing autophagy in the presence of lysosomal damage. Methods: By electron microscopy, we studied lysosomal morphology in VCP animal and motoneuronal models. With the use of western blotting, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), immunofluorescence and filter trap assay, we evaluated the effect of selected VCP mutants in neuronal cells on lysosome size and activity, lysosomal membrane permeabilization and their impact on autophagy. Results: We found that VCP mutants induce the formation of aberrant multilamellar organelles in VCP animal and cell models similar to those found in patients with VCP mutations or with lysosomal storage disorders. In neuronal cells, we found altered lysosomal activity characterised by membrane permeabilization with galectin‐3 redistribution and activation of PPP3CB. This selectively activated the autophagy/lysosomal transcriptional regulator TFE3, but not TFEB, and enhanced both SQSTM1/p62 and lipidated MAP1LC3B levels inducing autophagy. Moreover, we found that wild type VCP, but not the mutants, counteracted lysosomal damage induced either by trehalose or by a mutant form of SOD1 (G93A), also blocking the formation of its insoluble intracellular aggregates. Thus, chronic activation of autophagy might fuel the formation of multilamellar bodies. Conclusion: Together, our findings provide insights into the pathogenesis of VCP‐related diseases, by proposing a novel mechanism of multilamellar body formation induced by VCP mutants that involves lysosomal damage and induction of lysophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the harmonisation of insolvency law in the European Union (EU) has been a top priority on the European institutions' agenda in the last decade, it is well known that this endeavour has been slow and has often met resistance from the Member States. The COVID‐19 pandemic revealed that top‐down harmonisation of insolvency (i.e., introduced at EU level) has been temporarily halted. The urgency to control or mitigate the economically and financially destructive effects of the pandemic has, nevertheless, forced European governments to adopt domestic strategies and laws in the area of insolvency. Interestingly, however, such measures show that insolvency and restructuring law responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic, albeit largely uncoordinated, reflect a phenomenon of bottom‐up harmonisation (i.e., introduced by Member States) indicating a convergence towards common approaches. This paper interrogates the insolvency law responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic in six European countries (Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, the United Kingdom). It uncovers the inadequacy of the EU's harmonisation language, and the limits of harmonisation strategies in insolvency and restructuring law. Finally, it promotes the formulation of a wider‐encompassing definition of "legal harmonisation". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction by means of electroanatomic mapping (EAM) systems, allows for the understanding of the mechanism of focal or re‐entrant arrhythmic circuits, which can be identified by means of dynamic (activation and propagation) and static (voltage) color‐coded maps. However, besides this conventional use, EAM may offer helpful anatomical and functional information for tissue characterisation in several clinical settings. Today, data regarding electromechanical myocardial viability, scar detection in ischaemic and nonischaemic cardiomyopathy and arrhythmogenic right ventricle dysplasia (ARVC/D) definition are mostly consolidated, while emerging results are becoming available in contexts such as Brugada syndrome and cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) implant procedures. As part of an invasive procedure, EAM has not yet been widely adopted as a stand‐alone tool in the diagnostic path. We aim to review the data in the current literature regarding the use of 3D EAM systems beyond the definition of arrhythmia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retroareolar cysts are benign breast lesions caused by the obstruction and consequent dilatation of Montgomery tubercles. Herein, we report two cases of premenarchal girls who developed retroareolar cysts. Their course and differential diagnosis are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onychopapilloma is a common benign tumor that affects the nail bed or distal matrix. It can present in various ways, such as longitudinal erythronychia or leukonychia. The diagnosis of onychopapilloma can be challenging due to its similarity to other nail tumors, but non-invasive imaging techniques like onychoscopy and ultrasonography can aid in the differential diagnosis. Histologically, onychopapilloma shows papillomatous acanthosis, subungual hyperkeratosis, and hemorrhage. A case study is presented, highlighting the use of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) to support the diagnosis of onychopapilloma. Further research is needed to validate this observation. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Although only one spermatozoon is needed to create a zygote, a significant challenge is the storage and recovery of germ cells when sperm counts are extremely low. Objectives: We engineered an oocyte‐derived biomaterial—the zona pellucida (ZP)—as a "sperm safe" for storing spermatozoon. The ZP is a glycoprotein matrix that surrounds the mammalian oocyte. Materials and Methods: We made a hole in the ZPs using a Piezo drill and mechanically separated them from the oocyte cytoplasm. A subset of ZPs were further purified through decellularization. Using a modified ICSI approach, we injected sperm heads into purified ZPs and tested the efficacy of cryopreservation and recovery of spermatozoon as well as function. Results: Between 1–6 sperm heads were injected into purified ZPs (average 2.7 ± 1.7 sperm heads/ZP), which were then cryopreserved. Upon thawing, an average of 2.5 ± 1.4 sperm heads/ZP were observed, and in 11 of 12 thawed "sperm safes," we recovered all spermatozoa. Decellularized "sperm safes" maintained their three‐dimensional structure and had a denser matrix relative to untreated controls as assessed by scanning and transmitted electron microscopy. The efficacy of "sperm safe" derived spermatozoon was evaluated by ICSI. Spermatozoon stored in either untreated or decellularized "sperm safes" elicited egg activation‐associated calcium transients and zinc sparks when injected into eggs. Of the resulting zygotes, >80% of them formed pronuclei irrespective of the sperm source. 26.8 ± 4.6% and 18.1 ± 7.0% of the pre‐implantation embryos generated from spermatozoon recovered from untreated or decellularized "sperm safes" developed to the blastocyst stage, respectively. Although this development was lower than that using fresh spermatozoon (59.3 ± 19.3%) or conventionally frozen‐thawed spermatozoon (28.4 ± 1.7%), these differences were not significant. Discussion and Conclusion: Purified ZPs represent a natural biomaterial for the efficient preservation and recovery of small sperm numbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a microscope on chip for automated imaging of Drosophila embryos by light sheet fluorescence microscopy. This integrated device, constituted by both optical and microfluidic components, allows the automatic acquisition of a 3D stack of images for specimens diluted in a liquid suspension. The device has been fully optimized to address the challenges related to the specimens under investigation. Indeed, the thickness and the high ellipticity of Drosophila embryos can degrade the image quality. In this regard, optical and fluidic optimization has been carried out to implement dual‐sided illumination and automatic sample orientation. In addition, we highlight the dual color investigation capabilities of this device, by processing two sample populations encoding different fluorescent proteins. This work was made possible by the versatility of the used fabrication technique, femtosecond laser micromachining, which allows straightforward fabrication of both optical and fluidic components in glass substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Italy is about to enforce the first comprehensive reform of its corporate insolvency framework since the Second World War. The new Codice della Crisi d'Impresa e dell'Insolvenza builds on international recommendations, European laws and foreign best practice. One area that has been subject to substantial influence from foreign models is preventive insolvency mechanisms, where the Italian Legislator drew from the French and English experiences, as these countries have a widely recognized reputation of excellence in this field. Nevertheless, the similarities between the Italian and the English system – particularly with reference to the Italian panel of experts in the alert procedures and the English "pre‐pack pool" in pre‐packaged administrations – have so far been overlooked in the academic literature. This article sheds some light on the degree of cross‐fertilization between the Italian panel of experts in the procedure d'allerta and the English pre‐pack pool in pre‐packaged administration. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate whether regulatory reforms are needed to support the activity of the Italian panel in promoting restructuring deals for debtors in distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiation damage upon soft X‐ray exposure is an important issue to be considered in soft X‐ray microscopy. The work presented here is part of a more extended study on the topic and focuses on the effects of soft X‐rays on paraffin, a common embedding medium for soft‐tissues, and on ultralene and Si3N4 windows as sample supports. Our studies suggest that the sample environment indeed plays an important role in the radiation damage process and therefore should be carefully taken into account for the analysis and interpretation of new data. The radiation damage effects were followed over time using a combination of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy and X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), and it was demonstrated that, for higher doses, an oxidation of both embedding medium and ultralene substrate takes place after the irradiated sample is exposed to air. This oxidation is reflected in a clear increase of C=O and O—H infrared bands and on the XRF oxygen maps, correlated with a decrease of the aliphatic infrared signal. The results also show that the oxidation process may affect quantitative evaluation of light element concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recommender system is an information filtering technology that can be used to recommend items that may be of interest to users. Additionally, there are the context‐aware recommender systems that consider contextual information to generate the recommendations. Reviews can provide relevant information that can be used by recommender systems, including contextual and opinion information. In a previous work, we proposed a context‐aware recommendation method based on text mining (CARM‐TM). The method includes two techniques to extract context from reviews: CIET.5embed, a technique based on word embeddings; and RulesContext, a technique based on association rules. In this work, we have extended our previous method by including CEOM, a new technique which extracts context by using aspect‐based opinions. We call our extension of CARM‐TOM (context‐aware recommendation method based on text and opinion mining). To generate recommendations, our method makes use of the CAMF algorithm, a context‐aware recommender based on matrix factorization. To evaluate CARM‐TOM, we ran an extensive set of experiments in a dataset about restaurants, comparing CARM‐TOM against the MF algorithm, an uncontextual recommender system based on matrix factorization; and against a context extraction method proposed in literature. The empirical results strongly indicate that our method is able to improve a context‐aware recommender system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cytosine plays a preeminent role in DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene expression, the misregulation of which can lead to severe diseases. Several methods are nowadays employed for assessing the global DNA methylation levels, but none of them combines simplicity, high sensitivity, and low operating costs to be translated into clinical applications. Ultraviolet (UV) resonant Raman measurements at excitation wavelengths of 272 nm, 260 nm, 250 nm, and 228 nm have been carried out on isolated deoxynucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs), on a dNTP mixture as well as on genomic DNA (gDNA) samples, commercial from salmon sperm and non‐commercial from B16 murine melanoma cell line. The 228 nm excitation wavelength was identified as the most suitable energy for enhancing cytosine signals over the other DNA bases. The UV Raman measurements performed at this excitation wavelength on hyper‐methylated and hypo‐methylated DNA from Jurkat leukemic T‐cell line have revealed significant spectral differences with respect to gDNA isolated from salmon sperm and mouse melanoma B16 cells. This demonstrates how the proper choice of the excitation wavelength, combined with optimized extraction protocols, makes UV Raman spectroscopy a suitable technique for highlighting the chemical modifications undergone by cytosine nucleotides in gDNA upon hyper‐ and hypo‐methylation events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to push the spatial resolution limits to the nanoscale, synchrotron‐based soft X‐ray microscopy (XRM) experiments require higher radiation doses to be delivered to materials. Nevertheless, the associated radiation damage impacts on the integrity of delicate biological samples. Herein, the extent of soft X‐ray radiation damage in popular thin freeze‐dried brain tissue samples mounted onto Si3N4 membranes, as highlighted by Fourier transform infrared microscopy (FTIR), is reported. The freeze‐dried tissue samples were found to be affected by general degradation of the vibrational architecture, though these effects were weaker than those observed in paraffin‐embedded and hydrated systems reported in the literature. In addition, weak, reversible and specific features of the tissue–Si3N4 interaction could be identified for the first time upon routine soft X‐ray exposures, further highlighting the complex interplay between the biological sample, its preparation protocol and X‐ray probe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the second part of a comprehensive study on fair measurement of value in English insolvency law. The author has already demonstrated in a previous article the importance of posing and responding to questions about fairness in the insolvency process. That article developed a specific framework to measure whether assets and businesses are fairly valued in insolvency and bankruptcy cases. The proposed communitarian, fairness‐oriented framework is based on a modified version of Rawls, Finch and Radin's concepts of fairness. It evidenced that, when assessed against fairness, none of the valuation techniques currently available to the courts are without limitations. Building on the findings of this previous work, this article investigates whether English case law: (i) achieves a fair valuation of the debtor's assets and business; and (ii) protects interested parties (mainly creditors and shareholders) who have realistic prospects of receiving a distribution‐ against unfair harm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourier‐transform infrared hyperspectral imaging (FTIR‐HSI) provides hyperspectral images containing both morphological and chemical information. It is widely applied in the biomedical field to detect tumor lesions, even at the early stage, by identifying specific spectral biomarkers. Pancreatic neoplasms present different prognoses and are not always easily classified by conventional analyses. In this study, tissue samples with diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor were analyzed by FTIR‐HSI and the spectral data compared with those from healthy and dysplastic samples. Multivariate/univariate approaches were complemented to hyperspectral images, and definite spectral markers of the different lesions identified. The malignant lesions were recognizable both from healthy/dysplastic pancreatic tissues (high values of phospholipids and triglycerides with shorter, more branched and less unsaturated alkyl chains) and between each other (different amounts of total lipids, phosphates and carbohydrates). These findings highlight different metabolic pathways characterizing the different samples, well detectable by FTIR‐HSI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moreover, CN may undergo a change in color and/or size over time.[1] Although it is rare, spontaneous regression may also occur.[2] In our patient, the conjunctival lesion was almost pigmentless but had increased in size over some years. (HMB45, SOX10, S100, and CK-AE1 stains all photographed at ×100) gl Conjunctival nevi (CN) are benign lesions with great variability in clinical and histopathological features. Dear Editor, A 9-year-old Caucasian boy was referred by our colleagues in pediatrics for a light-pigmented conjunctival lesion in his right eye (Figure 1a). [Extracted from the article]

An editorial is presented that discussed about rise of early career insolvency law academics and researchers. It mentions the introduction of the Preventive Restructuring Directive in the European Union and the shifting of the global landscape in insolvency law; and also discusses about cross-border and international corporate and consumer insolvency matters.

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Summary: Background and objectives: In selected cases, conventional photodynamic therapy (C‐PDT) is a valid alternative to surgery for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC). However, it is limited to superficial BCCs. Pretreatment of BCCs with ablative lasers may enhance its efficacy. We evaluated the C‐PDT and CO2 laser combination therapy for the treatment of superficial and nodular BCCs. Patients and methods: In this prospective, interventional, monocentric study, patients affected by BCC were treated with CO2 laser therapy, using a continuous superpulsed CO2 laser for nodular BCCs and a fractional CO2 laser for superficial BCCs. All patients were subsequently treated with photodynamic therapy using methyl aminolevulinate cream and an Aktilite CL128® (Galderma) lamp. Results: 32 patients (20 males, 12 females) aged from 45 to 96 years (with a total of 181 BCCs) were treated using a CO2 laser combined with C‐PDT. A 100 % cure rate was achieved at three months, with no signs of relapse in 97.2 % of the cases during the mean follow‐up period (10.7 months, range 4 to 18 months). We observed mild adverse reactions and good aesthetic results. Conclusions: We recommend this combination therapy in selected cases, based on its high efficacy, good aesthetic results and few side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu−Al and Co−Al (M/Al=0.8/0.2, molar ratio; M=Cu or Co) mixed metal oxides showed a moderate activity in N2O decomposition (deN2O) with full conversion at about 500–550 °C. Addition of Nd modified the physico‐chemical and catalytic properties of both Cu−Al and Co−Al materials, though an optimal Nd loading was required. The addition of Nd in Cu0.8Al0.2 and Co0.8Al0.2 with Nd/Co(Cu)/Al = 0.5/0.8/0.2 molar ratio, improved significantly their catalytic activity. In particular, the temperatures needed for full N2O conversion were 100 °C lower than those of the bare materials. Furthermore, the most active Nd0.5Co0.8Al0.2 catalyst exhibited a stable 60 % N2O conversion at 450 °C for 50 h in presence of NO (200 ppm), O2 (20,000 ppm) and H2O (2500 ppm). The enhancement in the activity of both Cu‐ and Co‐containing materials was related to the formation of CuNd2O4 for Nd0.5Cu0.8Al0.2 and NdCoO3 for Nd0.5Co0.8Al0.2. The presence of CuNd2O4 or NdCoO3 accounted for changes in redox properties, e. g., easier reduction or faster release of oxygen, and in turn an increased catalyst activity in deN2O. The investigation of rare earth‐based catalysts for deN2O is limited in the scientific literature, while a comprehensive understanding of the involved active species may facilitate a knowledge‐based catalyst optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article reviews the state of public debate and legal provisions concerning end‐of‐life decision‐making in Italy and offers an evaluation of the moral and legal issues involved. The article further examines the content of a recent law concerning informed consent and advance treatment directives, the main court pronouncements that formed the basis for the law, and developments in the public debate and important jurisprudential acts subsequent to its approval. The moral and legal grounds for a positive evaluation of this law, which attests that the patient may withhold or withdraw from life‐prolonging treatment, will be offered with reference to liberal approaches and particularly to the frameworks of care and virtue ethics; but reasons will also be offered in order to consider not only the latter but also broader range of end‐of‐life treatment decisions as morally apt options. In this light, we argue in favour of a further development of the Italian legislation to encompass forms of assisted suicide and active euthanasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food production hinges largely upon access to phosphorus (P) fertilizer. Most fertilizer P used in the global agricultural system comes from mining of nonrenewable phosphate rock deposits located within few countries. However, P contained in livestock manure or urban wastes represents a recyclable source of P. To inform development of P recycling technologies and policies, we examined subnational, national, and global spatial patterns for two intersections of land use affording high P recycling potential: (a) manure‐rich cultivated areas and (b) populous cultivated areas. In turn, we examined overlap between P recycling potential and nation‐level P fertilizer import dependency. Populous cultivated areas were less abundant globally than manure‐rich cultivated areas, reflecting greater segregation between crops and people compared to crops and livestock, especially in the Americas. Based on a global hexagonal grid (290‐km2 grid cell area), disproportionately large shares of subnational "hot spots" for P recycling potential occurred in India, China, Southeast Asia, Europe, and parts of Africa. Outside of China, most of the remaining manure‐rich or populous cultivated areas occurred within nations that had relatively high imports of P fertilizer (net P import:consumption ratios ≥0.4) or substantial increases in fertilizer demand between the 2000s (2002–2006) and 2010s (2010–2014). Manure‐rich cultivated grid cells (those above the 75th percentiles for both manure and cropland extent) represented 12% of the global grid after excluding cropless cells. Annually, the global sum of animal manure P was at least 5 times that contained in human excreta, and among cultivated cells the ratio was frequently higher (median = 8.9). The abundance of potential P recycling hot spots within nations that have depended on fertilizer imports or experienced rising fertilizer demand could prove useful for developing local P sources and maintaining agricultural independence. Key Points: Many nations import mineral phosphorus (P) fertilizers to support agriculture but possess alternative, local, recyclable sources of P in manure and biosolidsA global, subnationally resolved analysis revealed where manure‐rich and populous cultivated areas occur and, in turn, where P recycling potential may be highAbundant P recycling opportunities exist in nations that have relied on fertilizer imports or had rising fertilizer demand, and these could be important to future agricultural independence [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) can sometimes affect the eyelids and in particular the eyelid margin, where it can often be misdiagnosed, mimicking other benign, more common diseases. Dermoscopy may provide additional diagnostic criteria for an earlier diagnosis of eyelid margin BCC, although the dermoscopic features of BCC affecting this anatomical site have seldom been reported. We highlight the peculiar presence of linear vessels perpendicular to the eyelid margin in BCCs of the eyelid margin. Our article represents the first report of these dermoscopic findings in a series of BCCs of the eyelid margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abbreviations HPV human papillomavirus H-SIL high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion VM vulvar melanoma DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no new data were created or analyzed in this study. Two years later, the patient developed a lymph node metastasis at the right groin; 4 years later, she developed distant metastases and started a systemic therapy with nivolumab and palliative radiotherapy. The dermoscopic features of case 1 (second primary VM) were in line with those described by Ronger-Savle et al.5 Notably, the tiny dimension of the paraurethral lesion deceived a VM of 1 mm Breslow thickness, which requested a complex surgical excision. [Extracted from the article]

Further studies are needed to better characterize and standardize the treatment of mycobacterial infections with PDT. 2 Gong N, Tan Y, Li M, Lu W, Lei X. ALA-PDT combined with antibiotics for the treatment of multiple skin abscesses caused by Mycobacterium fortuitum. ALA-PDT combined with antibiotics for the treatment of atypical mycobacterial skin infections: outcomes and safety. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract: The quality of a sample has always to be considered with respect to its purposes and to the technique used for assessing it. The aim of this work is to point out the most common interfering agents that vibrational spectroscopists may find when analyzing nucleic acids extracted from cellular cultures. Fourier transformed infrared and ultraviolet‐resonant Raman measurements have been carried out on DNA and RNA samples extracted from B16 cell cultures by standard protocols used in molecular biology. The routinely adopted quality control procedure, based on ultraviolet spectrophotometry absorption measurements, could only indicate the absence of protein, phenol, or other contaminants that absorb strongly at or near 280 nm. However, DNA and RNA samples of good quality from a biological perspective clearly showed the presence of chemicals interfering with the vibrational measurements, mainly ethanol and guanidinium salts. Here, we propose fast and inexpensive strategies for tailoring the extraction protocols in light of the requirements of both vibrational spectroscopies that allowed obtaining nucleic acid samples with ethanol concentration below the detection limit of both techniques and with a significantly reduced spectral interference from guanidinium salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]