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In the past decade, organic mixed ion-electron conductors have been successfully adopted in innovative bioelectronic, neuromorphic, and electro-optical technologies, as well as in multiple energy harvesting and printed electronics applications. However, despite the intense research efforts devoted to these materials, organic mixed conductors have not yet found application in electronic/photonic devices operating in key regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as the microwave (>5 GHz) and terahertz (0.1-10 THz) ranges. A possible reason for this technological gap is the widespread notion that organic electronic materials are unsuitable for high-frequency applications. In this work, we demonstrate for the first time the utility of high-performance polymer mixed conductors as electro-active tuning layers in reconfigurable terahertz metasurfaces, achieving modulation performances comparable with state-of-the-art inorganic and 2D semiconductors. Through time-domain terahertz spectroscopy, we show that the large conductivity modulations of these polymers, until now probed only at very low frequencies, are effectively preserved in the terahertz range, leading to optimal metadevice reconfigurability. Finally, we leverage the unique processability of organic materials to develop fully direct-written electrically tuneable metasurfaces onto both rigid and flexible substrates, opening new opportunities for the mass-scale realization of flexible and light-weight terahertz optics with unique mechanical characteristics and environmental footprint. Organic mixed ion-electron conductors are emerging as promising platforms for innovative bioelectronic, neuromorphic, and electro-optical technologies. In this work, authors explore the potential of this class of electronic materials in THz technologies by developing reconfigurable metasurfaces via direct-writing methods.

Pancreatic cancer, ranking as the third factor in cancer‐related deaths, necessitates enhanced diagnostic measures through early detection. In response, SiMoT‐Single‐molecule with a large Transistor multiplexing array, achieving a Technology Readiness Level of 5, is proposed for a timely identification of pancreatic cancer precursor cysts and is benchmarked against the commercially available chemiluminescent immunoassay SIMOA (Single molecule array) SP‐X System. A cohort of 39 samples, comprising 33 cyst fluids and 6 blood plasma specimens, undergoes detailed examination with both technologies. The SiMoT array targets oncoproteins MUC1 and CD55, and oncogene KRAS, while the SIMOA SP‐X planar technology exclusively focuses on MUC1 and CD55. Employing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for multivariate data processing, the SiMoT array demonstrates effective discrimination of malignant/pre‐invasive high‐grade or potentially malignant low‐grade pancreatic cysts from benign non‐mucinous cysts. Conversely, PCA analysis applied to SIMOA assay reveals less effective differentiation ability among the three cyst classes. Notably, SiMoT unique capability of concurrently analyzing protein and genetic markers with the threshold of one single molecule in 0.1 mL positions it as a comprehensive and reliable diagnostic tool. The electronic response generated by the SiMoT array facilitates direct digital data communication, suggesting potential applications in the development of field‐deployable liquid biopsy. SiMoT‐Single‐Molecule with Large Transistor technology simultaneously analyzes protein and genetic markers, achieving a one‐molecule threshold in 0.1 mL. Benchmarking against SIMOA chemiluminescent ultrasensitive assay, SiMoT outperforms SIMOA in speed and overall performance. Moreover, SiMoT provides an electronic response, enhancing its suitability for direct digital data communication.

Early diagnosis in a premalignant (or pre-invasive) state represents the only chance for cure in neoplastic diseases such as pancreatic-biliary cancer, which are otherwise detected at later stages and can only be treated using palliative approaches, with no hope for a cure. Screening methods for the purpose of secondary prevention are not yet available for these cancers. Current diagnostic methods mostly rely on imaging techniques and conventional cytopathology, but they do not display adequate sensitivity to allow valid early diagnosis. Next-generation sequencing can be used to detect DNA markers down to the physical limit; however, this assay requires labeling and is time-consuming. The additional determination of a protein marker that is a predictor of aggressive behavior is a promising innovative approach, which holds the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy. Moreover, the possibility to detect biomarkers in blood serum offers the advantage of a noninvasive diagnosis. In this study, both the DNA and protein markers of pancreatic mucinous cysts were analyzed in human blood serum down to the single-molecule limit using the SiMoT (single-molecule assay with a large transistor) platform. The SiMoT device proposed herein, which exploits an inkjet-printed organic semiconductor on plastic foil, comprises an innovative 3D-printed sensing gate module, consisting of a truncated cone that protrudes from a plastic substrate and is compatible with standard ELISA wells. This 3D gate concept adds tremendous control over the biosensing system stability, along with minimal consumption of the capturing molecules and body fluid samples. The 3D sensing gate modules were extensively characterized from both a material and electrical perspective, successfully proving their suitability as detection interfaces for biosensing applications. KRAS and MUC1 target molecules were successfully analyzed in diluted human blood serum with the 3D sensing gate functionalized with b-KRAS and anti-MUC1, achieving a limit of detection of 10 zM and 40 zM, respectively. These limits of detection correspond to (1 ± 1) KRAS and (2 ± 1) MUC1 molecules in the 100 μL serum sample volume. This study provides a promising application of the 3D SiMoT platform, potentially facilitating the timely, noninvasive, and reliable identification of pancreatic cancer precursor cysts.

Liquid Biopsy Pancreatic cancer, ranked as the third‐leading cause of cancer‐related deaths, necessitates enhanced diagnostic measures through early detection. In response, SiMoT‐single‐molecule with a large transistor multiplexing array, achieving a technology readiness level of 5, is proposed in article number 2308141 by Eleonora Macchia, Luisa Torsi, and co‐workers for timely identification of pancreatic cancer precursor cysts and is benchmarked against the commercially available chemiluminescent immunoassay single molecule array (SIMOA) SP‐X system.

For the acute treatment of radial head fractures, radial head arthroplasty can be considered if open reduction and internal fixation is not technically possible and if simple radial head resection is contraindicated. We report our experience with a bipolar Judet radial head prosthesis. After a mean follow-up of 41.7 months, 16 patients were assessed following radial head replacement. The outcome was assessed clinically, functionally, and radiographically. Outcome was satisfactory in 87.5% of cases. The mean post-operative ranges of motion were greater than the functional arcs both in flexion–extension and in pronation-supination, and the results did not appear to be influenced in a significant way by the type of original lesion. All elbows were stable. The main complication was the development of heterotopic ossifications. Bipolar radial head prosthesis represents a suitable option for acute treatment of unreconstructable radial head fractures, either isolated or associated with elbow dislocation and in the absence of other bony lesions.

Background According to international guidelines, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA tests represent a valid alternative to Pap Test for primary cervical cancer screening, provided that they guarantee balanced clinical sensitivity and specificity for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or more (CIN2+) lesions. The study aimed to assess whether HPV Selfy (Ulisse BioMed – Trieste, Italy), a full-genotyping HPV DNA test that detects and differentiates 14 high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) types, meets the criteria for primary cervical cancer screening described in the international guidelines, on clinician-collected as well as on self-collected samples. Methods For each participant woman, consecutively referring to Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina (Trieste, Italy) and CRO—National Cancer Institute (Aviano, Italy) for the cervical cancer screening program, the following samples were tested: (a) a clinician-collected cervical specimen, analyzed with the reference test (Hybrid Capture®2 test, HC2) and HPV Selfy; and (b) a self-collected vaginal sample, analyzed with HPV Selfy. Enrolled women were also asked to fulfill a questionnaire about self-sampling acceptability. As required by guidelines, a non-inferiority test was conducted to compare the clinical performance of the test under evaluation with its reference test. Results HPV Selfy clinical sensitivity and specificity resulted non-inferior to those of HC2. By analysis of a total of 889 cervical liquid-based cytology samples from a screening population, of which 98 were from women with CIN2+, HPV Selfy showed relative sensitivity and specificity for CIN2+ of 0.98 and 1.00 respectively (non-inferiority score test: P  = 0.01747 and P  = 0.00414, respectively); the test reached adequate intra- and inter-laboratory reproducibility. Moreover, we demonstrated that the performance of HPV Selfy on self-collected vaginal samples was non-inferior to the performance obtained on clinician-collected cervical specimen (0.92 relative sensitivity and 0.97 relative specificity). Finally, through HPV Selfy genotyping, we were able to describe HPV types prevalence in the study population. Conclusions HPV Selfy fulfills all the requirements of the international Meijer’s guidelines and has been clinically validated for primary cervical cancer screening purposes. Moreover, HPV Selfy has also been validated for self-sampling according to VALHUDES guidelines. Therefore, at date, HPV Selfy is the only full-genotyping test validated both for screening purposes and for self-sampling. Trial registration ASUGI Trieste n. 16008/2018; CRO Aviano n.17149/2018

ObjectiveProtein–energy malnutrition and the subsequent muscle wasting (sarcopenia) are common ageing complications. It is knowing to be also associated with dementia. Our programme will test the cytoprotective functions of vitamin E combined with the cortisol-lowering effect of chocolate polyphenols (PP), in combination with muscle anabolic effect of adequate dietary protein intake and physical exercise to prevent the age-dependent decline of muscle mass and its key underpinning mechanisms including mitochondrial function, and nutrient metabolism in muscle in the elderly.Methods and analysisIn 2020, a 6-month double-blind randomised controlled trial in 75 predementia older people was launched to prevent muscle mass loss, in respond to the ‘Joint Programming Initiative A healthy diet for a healthy life’. In the run-in phase, participants will be stabilised on a protein-rich diet (0.9–1.0 g protein/kg ideal body weight/day) and physical exercise programme (high-intensity interval training specifically developed for these subjects). Subsequently, they will be randomised into three groups (1:1:1). The study arms will have a similar isocaloric diet and follow a similar physical exercise programme. Control group (n=25) will maintain the baseline diet; intervention groups will consume either 30 g/day of dark chocolate containing 500 mg total PP (corresponding to 60 mg epicatechin) and 100 mg vitamin E (as RRR-alpha-tocopherol) (n=25); or the high polyphenol chocolate without additional vitamin E (n=25). Muscle mass will be the primary endpoint. Other outcomes are neurocognitive status and previously identified biomolecular indices of frailty in predementia patients. Muscle biopsies will be collected to assess myocyte contraction and mitochondrial metabolism. Blood and plasma samples will be analysed for laboratory endpoints including nutrition metabolism and omics.Ethics and disseminationAll the ethical and regulatory approvals have been obtained by the ethical committees of the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona with respect to scientific content and compliance with applicable research and human subjects’ regulation. Given the broader interest of the society toward undernutrition in the elderly, we identify four main target audiences for our research activity: national and local health systems, both internal and external to the project; targeted population (the elderly); general public; and academia. These activities include scientific workshops, public health awareness campaigns, project dedicated website and publication is scientific peer-review journals.Trial registration numberNCT05343611.

Experimental tests have shown that unreinforced masonry (URM) infill walls are affected by simultaneous loading in their in-plane and out-of-plane directions, but there have been few attempts to represent this interaction in nonlinear time history analysis of reinforced concrete (RC) buildings with URM infill walls. In this paper, a recently proposed macro-model that accounts for this interaction is applied to the seismic analysis of RC framed structures with URM infill walls representative of Mediterranean building stock and practices. Two RC framed structures that are representative of low and mid-rise residential buildings are analysed with a suite of a bidirectional ground motions, scaled to three different intensities. During the analyses, the in-plane/out-of-plane interaction is monitored, showing that cracking of the infills occurs predominantly by in-plane actions, while failure occurs due to a combination of in-plane and out-of-plane displacements, with the out-of-plane component usually playing the dominant role. Along the frame height, the bottom storeys are generally the most damaged, especially where thin infill walls are used. These results are consistent with observations of damage to URM infill walls in similar buildings during recent earthquakes.

Common wheat grains are characterised by low concentrations of Ca, K, and Mg, which can be partially removed with the bran during milling processes. This preliminary study investigated the effects of foliar fertilisation at the earing stage with nitrates of Ca, Mg, and K contemporarily, together with a small amount of urea and protein hydrolysate as potential carriers, in two contrasting common wheat varieties, i.e., Solehio (medium proteins content) and Vivendo (high proteins content). Based on the preliminary grain-to-straw concentration ratio of these minerals, two biofortification targets were applied in order to increase their grain contents by +20% and +40%, in comparison with untreated controls. Here, we demonstrate that the highest fertilisation dose was effective in increasing grain K by 13% and Mg by 16% in Vivendo, and Ca by 7% in Solehio, with no boosting effects of the co-formulants urea and protein hydrolysate. In addition to some qualitative benefits due to nitrates supply, negligible phytotoxicity symptoms were observed, as revealed by the NDVI vegetational index dynamics. Although the biofortification target was not fully achieved, this study firstly reports the possibility to increase at the same time Mg and K, and to a lower extent Ca in wheat grains. It is concluded that efficient multiple biofortification should consider a variety-depend response, while further studies are necessary to investigate the effects of different fertilisation timings and doses for improving the poor mineral translocation to the grains.

By analysis of a total of 889 cervical liquid-based cytology samples from a screening population, of which 98 were from women with CIN2+, HPV Selfy showed relative sensitivity and specificity for CIN2+ of 0.98 and 1.00 respectively (non-inferiority score test: P = 0.01747 and P = 0.00414, respectively); the test reached adequate intra- and inter-laboratory reproducibility. [...]we demonstrated that the performance of HPV Selfy on self-collected vaginal samples was non-inferior to the performance obtained on clinician-collected cervical specimen (0.97 relative sensitivity and 0.97 relative specificity). [...]through HPV Selfy genotyping, we were able to describe HPV types prevalence in the study population. [...]we needed to assess whether HPV testing on vaginal self-samples was as accurate as HPV testing on a cervical sample taken by a clinician. HPV Selfy testing in self-collected samples was found similarly sensitive (93/96; relative sensitivity 0.97; 95% CI 0.90–1.04) and specific (722/745; relative specificity 0.97; 95% CI 0.95–0.99) to detect CIN2+ in the total study population (Table 4), in comparison with HPV Selfy performed on paired ThinPrep. [...]HPV Selfy assay fulfills VALHUDES requirements for use of HR-HPV DNA tests on self-collected samples according to non-inferiority analysis (relative sensitivity > 0.90 with T = 1.70, p = 0.044; relative specificity > 0.95 with T = 1.87, p =0.031).