Archivio istituzionale della ricerca - Università dell'Insubria
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Sustainability in Italian Dining: A Comparative Study of Perceptions in Full-Service Restaurants and Agritourism
No full textThis study explores how sustainability is perceived and prioritized by consumers within full-service restaurants and rural agritourism settings in Italy, examining the socio-cultural and economic role of the HoReCa sector in promoting sustainable practices
and analyzing gender and generational differences in consumer behavior. The research, based on a questionnaire, investigates
whether full-service and rural dining formats are evaluated similarly regarding sustainable practices, analyzing consumer preferences, activities, and sustainability practices across different restaurant typologies while examining the relationship between
stated sustainability values and willingness to pay price premiums. The analysis shows differences in sustainability perceptions,
with consumer preferences closely tied to restaurant typology rather than solely demographic characteristics. A complex relationship emerges between stated sustainability values and actual willingness to pay, particularly among Generation Z consumers
where convenience may override sustainability preferences. Moreover, geographical considerations and physical accessibility
also emerge as critical factors influencing consumer choices. Finally, this study contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable consumer behavior by demonstrating that sustainability perceptions are fundamentally linked to restaurant typology rather
than consumer characteristics, challenging prevailing assumptions about gender-based differences in sustainability preferences
and highlighting the need for expanded theoretical models that better incorporate situational factors and the attitude-behavior
gap in dining contexts
Collaboration, Cooperation, and Community: Itale and SBN
No full textL’articolo ripercorre la storia e l’evoluzione della collaborazione tra ITALE, la comunità italiana degli utenti Ex Libris, e il Servizio Bibliotecario Nazionale (SBN), concentrandosi sul ruolo svolto da ITALE nella promozione della cooperazione tra istituzioni bibliotecarie. Vengono illustrate le principali tappe del dialogo tecnico e istituzionale con l’ICCU, volto a garantire l’interoperabilità tra i sistemi gestionali (prima Aleph, poi Alma) e l’infrastruttura SBN. Particolare attenzione è rivolta alle sfide poste dalla gestione del formato UNIMARC e dal rapporto con il protocollo SBN-MARC, nonché al ruolo dei gruppi di lavoro ITALE nel supporto tecnico e nella negoziazione con Ex Libris. Nella parte finale, l’articolo esplora le prospettive future, in particolare l’introduzione dei Linked Open Data e l’evoluzione del formato UNIMARC, individuan-do nella sinergia tra ITALE e ICCU un elemento cruciale per accompagnare la comunità bibliotecaria italiana verso nuovi paradigmi descrittivi e una maggiore visibilità internazionale dei dati bibliografici
Comunicazione ottica quantistica per sistemi energetici e reti intelligenti
No full textIl presente lavoro descrive la prima realizzazione sperimentale di un rivelatore interferometrico ibrido, ispirato al classico rivelatore omodino (HD), ma basato sull’impiego di due fotomoltiplicatori al silicio (SiPM) come rivelatori risolutivi del numero di fotoni. Dopo aver caratterizzato il sistema per riprodurre il comportamento tipico di un HD, lo studio si concentra sull’ottimizzazione dell’intensità ottica, al fine di bilanciare al meglio l’informazione mutua e la sensibilità del rivelatore.
Sono state testate diverse strategie di post-elaborazione per la modulazione di fase binaria (BPSK) di stati coerenti, e la più efficace è stata utilizzata per simulare un canale di comunicazione, includendo la possibilità di intercettazione rappresentata da perdite di canale. I risultati ottenuti sono stati confrontati con quelli previsti da un HD simulato con parametri sperimentali identici.
Viene inoltre presentata un’indagine preliminare su uno schema di codifica a quattro fasi (4-PSK), comprendente l’analisi del rumore di fase e le prime misure sperimentali di 4-PSK in presenza di perdite di canale, messe a confronto con le previsioni di BPSK e del rivelatore omodino standard.
Poiché tutti gli esperimenti sono stati condotti nella regione del visibile, dove i SiPM mostrano un’elevata efficienza quantica, il lavoro esplora anche la compatibilità con le telecomunicazioni sviluppando un ricevitore a conversione verso l’alto: in questa configurazione, i segnali a 1550 nm vengono convertiti a 620 nm per essere rivelati dai SiPM. Questo esperimento di principio, testato su singoli rivelatori, ha mostrato risultati promettenti, pur richiedendo ulteriori ottimizzazioni.
Infine, durante un soggiorno di ricerca di sei mesi a Nizza, sono state studiate le correlazioni quantistiche di pettini di frequenza generati in un microanello in nitruro di silicio.This work presents the first experimental realization of a hybrid interferometric detector, inspired by a standard homodyne detector (HD) but using two silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) as photon-number-resolving detectors. After characterizing the system to reproduce HD behavior, the study focuses on optimizing the intensity to balance mutual information and detector sensitivity. Different post-processing methods for binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) of coherent states are tested, and the best strategy is used to simulate a communication channel, including potential eavesdropping through channel losses. Results are compared with a simulated HD under identical parameters.
A preliminary investigation of a four-phase encoding scheme is presented, including phase noise analysis and the first measurements of 4-PSK under channel losses, again compared with BPSK and standard HD predictions.
Since all experiments use visible light, where SiPMs are highly efficient, the work explores telecom compatibility by developing an up-conversion receiver: signals at 1550 nm are converted to 620 nm to be detected by SiPMs. This proof of principle, tested on single detectors, shows promising results though requiring further optimization.
Additionally, during a six-month stay in Nice, the quantum correlations of frequency combs generated in a silicon nitride micro-ring resonator were studied
Italian EBP Implementation Scales: A Psychometric Validation Study
No full textBackground
Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) is widely endorsed as a cornerstone for high-quality, patient-centred care. However, its integration into daily clinical routines remains inconsistent, particularly in settings where cultural, educational, and organisational challenges persist. Reliable, contextually adapted tools are essential to measure EBP implementation and guide improvement efforts.
Aims
This study aimed to validate the Italian versions of the EBP Implementation Scale and its short-form (3-item) version.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey design was adopted. Both versions of the EBP Implementation Scale were translated and culturally adapted in accordance with internationally recognised guidelines. Data were gathered from a national sample of 405 nurses through a combination of convenience and snowball sampling. Psychometric assessment encompassed confirmatory and Bayesian factor analyses, evaluation of internal consistency and test–retest reliability, measurement invariance testing. All analysis were performed in R Studio.
Results
Confirmatory factor analyses confirmed that both versions (long and short) of the scale measure a single underlying construct. The instruments demonstrated high reliability (ω = 0.96 and 0.87 respectively). Measurement invariance across educational groups was partially established, as the partial scalar invariance model demonstrated acceptable fit (CFI = 0.991, RMSEA = 0.045), suggesting consistent interpretation of the scale across different levels of EBP training. Latent profile analysis revealed distinct subgroups of EBP implementers, with notable differences in latent means (p < 0.001) associated with previous education in evidence-based practice.
Discussion
The Italian EBP Implementation Scales are valid and reliable tools for assessing EBP implementation behaviours. They can support education planning, monitor practice changes over time, and inform interventions aimed at enhancing evidence-based care.Background: Evidence- based practice (EBP) is widely endorsed as a cornerstone for high- quality, patient- centered care.
However, its integration into daily clinical routines remains inconsistent, particularly in settings where cultural, educational,
and organizational challenges persist. Reliable, contextually adapted tools are essential to measure EBP implementation and
guide improvement efforts.
Aims: This study aimed to validate the Italian versions of the EBP Implementation Scale and its short- form (3- item) version.
Methods: A cross- sectional survey design was adopted. Both versions of the EBP Implementation Scale were translated and
culturally adapted in accordance with internationally recognized guidelines. Data were gathered from a national sample of 405
nurses through a combination of convenience and snowball sampling. Psychometric assessment encompassed confirmatory and
Bayesian factor analyses, evaluation of internal consistency and test–retest reliability, and measurement invariance testing. All
analyses were performed in R Studio.
Results: Confirmatory factor analyses confirmed that both versions (long and short) of the scale measure a single underly
ing construct. The instruments demonstrated high reliability (ω = 0.96 and 0.87 respectively). Measurement invariance across
educational groups was partially established, as the partial scalar invariance model demonstrated acceptable fit (CFI = 0.991,
RMSEA = 0.045), suggesting consistent interpretation of the scale across different levels of EBP training. Latent profile analysis
revealed distinct subgroups of EBP implementers, with notable differences in latent means (p < 0.001) associated with previous
education in evidence- based practice.
Discussion: The Italian EBP Implementation Scales are valid and reliable tools for assessing EBP implementation behav
iors. They can support education planning, monitor practice changes over time, and inform interventions aimed at enhancing
evidence- based care
Nasal Branch of the Anterior Ethmoidal Artery and Cribroethmoidal Groove: New Frontal Sinus Landmarks
No full textObjective: Expanded frontal sinusotomies (Draf IIb/c-III) are essential surgical procedures for managing complex frontal sinus pathologies. However, traditional anatomical landmarks may be difficult to identify, particularly in tumor or revision cases. This manuscript investigates the nasal branch of the anterior ethmoidal artery (NbAEA) and the cribroethmoidal groove (CrEGr) as reliable and consistent landmarks for endoscopic frontal sinusotomies. Methods: This study included anatomical dissections (medio-lateral approach) on three fresh cadavers (six sides) focused on the region anterior to the first olfactory phylum, namely the cribo-frontal area. Additionally, a retrospective clinical case series of patients that underwent centripetal dissection with a medio-lateral approach to the frontal sinus was performed. Identification of NbAEA, CrEGr, and the first olfactory phylum, along with surgical outcomes and complications, was analyzed. Results: The NbAEA and CrEGr were identified in all dissected sides and were located anterior to the first olfactory phylum. Considering the 19 enrolled patients, 13/19 (68.4%) were treated with a bilateral centripetal dissection and Draf III procedure (26 sides); whereas 6/19 patients (31.6%) underwent a unilateral approach with a Draf IIb/c procedure. The NbAEA and CrEGr were identified in all cases (100%) and in only 9/19 cases (47.7%) the first olfactory phylum was additionally exposed, reinforcing the role of these new anatomical landmarks. No perioperative complications were recorded. Conclusions: This study supports the clinical significance of NbAEA and CrEGr as reliable anatomical landmarks, and their identification in 100% of cases reinforces their practical applicability in surgical approaches to the frontal sinus. Level of Evidence: Level 4
Surgical Approaches and Perioperative Outcomes in Mediastinal Paragangliomas: A 20-Year Comprehensive Systematic Review
No full textBackground: Mediastinal paragangliomas (MPs) are rare, highly vascular neuroendocrine tumors whose surgical resection is the gold standard but carries a high risk of perioperative complications due to the MPs’ proximity to major cardiovascular structures with potential life-threatening hemorrhage. Due to their rarity, the literature consists primarily of case reports. Our systematic review aims to synthesize the evidence from the last two decades to propose a standardized, multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and surgical man- agement of MPs. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted from 2005 to 2025. Studies reporting on surgically resected adult mediastinal paragangliomas were included. Patient demographic data, diagnostic workup, surgical approaches, and outcomes were ex- tracted and analyzed descriptively. Results: Analysis of 79 patients from 75 papers revealed a median age of 50 years (female predominance of 62%). Most tumors were in the middle mediastinum (51.9%). Sternotomy was the most common surgical approach (44.3%), with cardiopulmonary bypass utilized in 27.8% of cases. Postoperative complications occurred in 28% of patients, with left vocal cord palsy (12.7%) being most frequent. The median follow-up was 12 months. All percentages refer to the number of patients. Conclusions: Surgical removal is the standard of care for curative treatment of MPs. However, surgical treatment requires meticulous planning within a multidisciplinary team to reduce the risk of perioperative complications. The choice of surgical approach—open, minimally invasive, or with circulatory support—depends on tumor site, size, and vascular involvement. This review consolidates existing evidence of MPs’ surgical management, aiming to mitigate the significant risks associated with surgery. Lifelong follow-up is essential due to the potential for recurrence
Tildrakizumab in Managing Psoriasis with Involvement of Difficult-to-Treat Areas: A Multicenter Real-Life Retrospective Study
No full textBackground: Psoriasis involving difficult-to-treat anatomical areas, such as the scalp, genitalia, fingernails, and palmoplantar regions, carries a disproportionate disease burden and often requires systemic therapy. In this context, real-life data comparing the long-term effectiveness of tildrakizumab 100 mg versus 200 mg in patients with difficult-to-treat psoriasis remain limited. Methods: This multicenter retrospective observational study included adult patients in three Italian dermatology centers. Global efficacy endpoints included PASI75, PASI90, PASI100, and absolute PASI ≤ 2 at weeks 16, 32, 52, and 104. Site-specific effectiveness was assessed as complete clearance (PGA = 0) in patients with baseline involvement (PGA ≥ 2) of difficult-to-treat areas. Outcomes were described by dose. Results: 183 patients were included (100 mg: n = 89; 200 mg: n = 94). Patients receiving 200 mg had higher baseline BMI and were more frequently biologic-experienced. At week 104, PASI75 was achieved by 94.2% of patients receiving 100 mg and 94.7% receiving 200 mg, while PASI90 and PASI100 were achieved by 82.7% vs. 57.9% and 48.1% vs. 47.4%, respectively. Clearance of difficult-to-treat areas improved progressively across all sites. Scalp and genital psoriasis showed higher and earlier clearance rates, whereas nail and palmoplantar psoriasis showed slower and more heterogeneous responses. No consistent dose-dependent advantage emerged, despite less favorable baseline characteristics in the 200 mg group. Conclusions: Over 104 weeks, tildrakizumab showed sustained long-term effectiveness in both global disease control and difficult-to-treat areas. The 200 mg dose, used in a more difficult-to-treat population, achieved comparable long-term outcomes, supporting dose optimization in clinical practice
Comparison of Digital and Traditional Methods for Occlusal Contact Assessment: An Experimental Cross-Sectional Study
No full textThis cross-sectional experimental study compared a digital intraoral-scanner-based method with a traditional wax-registration method for the quantitative assessment of static occlusal contacts. Twenty adults with natural dentition were evaluated using an intraoral scan analyzed through a Java-based software (PixCount.java, version 1.0, version 1.0, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy) and wax registration analyzed with Z_TMJ software (Z_TMJ, version 1.0, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy). The primary outcome was the percentage distribution of static occlusal contacts between hemi-arches. A paired t-test and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to evaluate differences and agreement. Mean contact distribution was 49.75 +/- 3.44% for the digital method and 48.02 +/- 5.31% for the wax method. No statistically significant difference was observed (p > 0.05), and agreement analysis showed moderate concordance (ICC approximate to 0.43). Digital analysis provided superior visualization and workflow efficiency, whereas wax registration remained a practical, low-cost option. These findings indicate that both methods provide clinically meaningful information, with the digital approach offering additional practical advantages. The observed consistency between the two techniques supports the expanding role of digital tools in routine occlusal assessment
On generalized limits and ultrafilters
Full text linkGiven an ideal I on ω, we denote by SL(I) the family of positive normalized linear
functionals on l∞ which assign value 0 to all characteristic sequences of sets in I.
We show that every element of SL(I) is a Choquet average of certain ultrafilter
limit functionals. Also, we prove that the diameter of SL(I) is 2 if and only if I
is not maximal, and that the latter claim can be considerably strengthened if I is
meager. Lastly, we provide several applications: for instance, recovering a result of
Freedman (1981) [19], we show that the family of bounded sequences for which all
functionals in SL(I) assign the same value coincides with the closed vector space of
bounded I-convergent sequence
