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Diagnosed Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B and Delta Virus in Italy in 2024: An Estimation From a National Real‐World Database
No full textBackground and Aims: Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis Delta virus (HDV) infection have undergone significant changes in Italy over the past few decades, but reliable and updated prevalence of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and Delta (CHD) data are lacking. The aim of the study was to describe the epidemiology of CHB and CHD in Italy in 2024, based on real-world data. Methods: The number of patients with a healthcare expenditure exemption for CHB (016.070.32) and CHD (016.070.33) was obtained from 21 Regional Health Authorities. To understand how many CHB or CHD patients did not have these specific exemptions, a survey was conducted in 30 Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases Units across the country. Results: Health Authorities data reported 67 514 and 5216 subjects with an exemption for CHB and for CHD, respectively. However, among 6775 CHB and 504 CHD patients, only 60.3% and 55.7% of them had the specific exemption, respectively. Based on these results, we estimated 111 960 (95% CI: 109 780–114 240) CHB and 9360 (95% CI: 8690–10 150) CHD patients, with a prevalence of 0.22% and 0.019% of the adult overall population. Moreover, anti-HDV prevalence was 7.7% from this cohort. Conclusion: Our study provides a plausible estimate of the current number of adult patients diagnosed with CHB and CHD in Italy and may be considered the basis for decision-making health policies
Challenges and Promises of Near-Field Scanning Microwave Microscopy in Liquid
No full textNear-Field Scanning Microwave Microscopy (SMM), also referred to as Scanning Microwave Impedance Microscopy (sMIM), is a technique that takes advantage of the quasi-static interaction between a probe and a surface to detect and quantitatively measure the electromagnetic properties of a surface, such as dielectric constant and conductivity, with nanometric resolution using a microwave signal. Furthermore, due to the penetrating nature of microwaves, SMM enables the characterization of sub-surface features, potentially allowing for 3D tomography in certain cases. While this method has been successfully applied to analyze novel 2D structures, nanodevices, topological materials, and semiconductors, its application in wet environments—essential for studying liquid-solid interfaces and soft biological samples under physiological conditions—remains a significant challenge. In this talk, we will outline the working principles of SMM, examine the challenges associated with in-liquid operation, and discuss recent advancements, including the development of inverted SMM (iSMM). Additionally, we will explore the necessary steps to transition from qualitative to quantitative measurements in this field
Insights into radiomics: a comprehensive review for beginners
No full textRadiomics and artificial intelligence (AI) are rapidly evolving, significantly transforming the field of medical imaging. Despite their growing adoption, these technologies remain challenging to approach due to their technical complexity. This review serves as a practical guide for early-career radiologists and researchers seeking to integrate radiomics into their studies. It provides practical insights for clinical and research applications, addressing common challenges, limitations, and future directions in the field. This work offers a structured overview of the essential steps in the radiomics workflow, focusing on concrete aspects of each step, including indicative and practical examples. It covers the main steps such as dataset definition, image acquisition and preprocessing, segmentation, feature extraction and selection, and AI model training and validation. Different methods to be considered are discussed, accompanied by summary diagrams. This review equips readers with the knowledge necessary to approach radiomics and AI in medical imaging from a hands-on research perspective
Methodology and clinical utility of longitudinal UBA1 tracking in VEXAS syndrome
No full textVacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, somatic (VEXAS) is a haemato-inflammatory syndrome genetically defined by somatic mutations in the X-linked UBA1 gene, typically Val/Thr/Leu substitutions at the Met41 hotspot. Clinical manifestations are heterogeneous and refractory to most haemato-rheumatological treatments. To date, no guidelines exist for the management of VEXAS, and scarce is the evidence on methodology and clinical significance of longitudinal UBA1 clonal burden evaluation upon therapy. Here, we validated a method to quantify UBA1 clonal burden and explored its applicability in patients with VEXAS. Given the different treatment interactions, droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) may allow for informed therapeutic decisions and implementation of personalized strategies
Enabling Zero-Defect Manufacturing Through Thermographic Data Analysis: a Steel Industry Use Case
No full textThis paper presents the integration of two thermographic Non-Destructive Inspection systems (NDIs) into the production line of trailer suspension components, a high-temperature industrial process. The NDI positioned at the exit of the induction furnace provides indications of the uniformity of heating, the presence of oxide scales, and, together with the NDI positioned at the exit of the descaling unit, the overall process efficiency, improving both product and process diagnosis. Oxide scales detection upstream and downstream of the descaling unit allows real-time adjustments to the process, which is energy-intensive, to reduce its consumption while maintaining process performance. The use of data generated by the NDIs enables Zero-Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) strategies to be implemented. This work demonstrates that infrared thermography can significantly enhance in-line quality control and sustainability in industrial manufacturin
Un reformismo difícil y complicado en materia laboral: la experiencia española (Un riformismo difficile e complicato in materia lavoristica: l’esperienza spagnola) di Antonio Baylos Grau
No full textSynergic action of MicroRNAs and Wnts delivered by motor neuron EVs in promoting AChR clustering
No full textBackground: The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) establishment occurs through complex communication events between motor neurons and muscle fibers; however, the molecular mechanisms leading to NMJ formation have yet to be fully elucidated. Little is known about the significance of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in mediating the interaction between motor neurons and muscle fiber in the NMJ establishment; this study investigates the role of motor neuron-derived EVs during the earliest stages of NMJ formation. Methods: NSC-34 cells have been used as a model of motor neurons; EVs have been isolated during neurite development using a serial ultracentrifugation protocol specifically adjusted to isolate large and small EVs. Isolated EVs were quantified through Nanoparticles Tracking Assay and characterized by Western Blot and TEM analyses. The microRNA (miRNA) cargo of EV subpopulations was identified by small-RNA sequencing and the predicted miRNA downstream targets were investigated. Results: NGS analysis of small RNAs carried by NSC-34-derived EVs identified a total of 245 EV specific miRNAs, most of which are up-regulated in NSC-34 cells and EVs during neurite stretching. Target prediction analysis evidenced how these miRNAs synergically target the Wnt signaling pathway. Moreover, we found that NSC-34-derived EVs carry Wnt proteins, including Wnt11, Wnt4 and Wnt3a. Since several studies suggested a role for the Wnt-associated signaling network in NMJ formation, we investigated the potential role of NSC-34 EVs in NMJ development and demonstrated that EV administration to myotubes increases acetylcholine receptor (AChR) cluster formation, as revealed by immunofluorescence staining with α-bungarotoxin. Moreover, myotube treatment with NSC-34-derived EVs led to GSK3β and JNK phosphorylation, followed by β-catenin nuclear translocation, suggesting that neuron-derived EVs can induce AChR clustering through Wnt pathway activation. Conclusion: These data demonstrate that EVs released from differentiated motor neurons carry multimodal signals, miRNAs, and Wnts, which can stimulate AChR clustering in myotubes, a fundamental preparatory stage for NMJ formation. These new data highlight that EVs may play a role in the NMJ establishment and function under physiological and pathological conditions, particularly neurodegenerative diseases
Surgical Techniques and Outcomes for Atrial Functional Mitral Regurgitation: Insights From the Mini Mitral International Registry
No full textObjectives: Evidence on optimal therapeutic strategies for atrial functional mitral regurgitation (AFMR) remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate patient characteristics, surgical techniques, and outcomes in AFMR patients from the Mini Mitral International Registry (MMIR). Methods: Patients undergoing mini mitral surgery for AFMR between 2015 and 2023 were identified. Exclusion criteria included organic lesions, abnormal leaflet motion, reduced left ventricular function, absence of annular dilation, and previous mitral procedures. Results: Of 7957 patients, 430 (5.4%) met AFMR criteria. The cohort was elderly (median age 73), predominantly female (67.7%), with frequent atrial fibrillation (AF) (69.7%). Mitral repair was performed in 91.4% of patients, all via isolated annuloplasty except 3. Complete rings were used in 97.1%. On multivariable analysis, anterior mitral leaflet (AML) pseudo-prolapse was associated with an increased likelihood of valve replacement (OR 5.3, 95% CI 1.07-9.12). Concomitant tricuspid repair, AF ablation, and left atrial appendage closure were performed in 44.2%, 40.5%, and 25.6%, respectively. At discharge, 99% had none or mild regurgitation; in-hospital mortality and stroke were 2.3% and 1.9%. Conclusions: Findings from the MMIR indicate that mitral repair with isolated annuloplasty was the preferred surgical strategy for AFMR, providing satisfactory procedural and early clinical outcomes. The presence of AML pseudo-prolapse reduced the likelihood of valve repair. Overall operative results were favourable, with 99% of patients experiencing no or mild residual mitral regurgitation. These findings may serve as a reference for clinical decision-making in AFMR treatment pathways
Early career psychiatrists’ ability to evaluate and manage negative symptoms of schizophrenia – results from a European survey
Get PDFBackground Negative symptoms (NS) represent an important unmet need in schizophrenia (SZ) assessment and management. Despite NS are strongly associated with poorer functioning and quality of life, they are frequently underrecognized, inconsistently evaluated, and show limited response to current treatments. Although specific assessment tools and European Psychiatric Association (EPA) guidance on NS have been developed, their impact on routine clinical practice appears limited. This study aimed to investigate the competence and confidence of European Early Career Psychiatrists (ECPs) in NS evaluation and management. Methods The CARE project was a cross-sectional online survey directed towards ECPs from European countries. Results 828 ECPs’ responses were collected from 19 countries. The majority of ECPs were trainees (65.8%), reported theoretical training in negative symptoms (NS) and placements in schizophrenia-specialized settings (67.9% and 70.3%), while about half reported extracurricular NS training (51.1%) and involvement in clinical research (46.1%). Only 11% correctly identified NS domains, despite 65.7% felt well-trained in NS assessment tools. Just 15.9% correctly answered questions based on the EPA guidance papers. 46.7% and 25.9% ECPs reported feeling competent in NS evaluation and management, respectively. Gender (men) specialist status, research involvement, theoretical NS training, and placements in specialized SZ services predicted perceived competence. However, in-depth NS knowledge was predicted only by specialist status, engagement in clinical research, and extracurricular NS training. Conclusions Despite reported exposure to NS training, ECPs demonstrated limited knowledge of NS. Actions need to be taken to ensure that ECPs receive the highest standard of training in NS
