CSI Piemonte

La transizione energetica richiede strumenti sempre più precisi per orientare le decisioni, ma spesso i risultati della modellizzazione rimangono lontani dalla pratica. In Piemonte è stato sperimentato un approccio innovativo, che ha permesso a ricercatori e funzionari pubblici di lavorare insieme e trasformare i modelli energetici in scenari concreti e attuabili. Grazie al modello EPLANopt (sviluppato da Eurac partendo da EnergyPLAN), sono stati sviluppati scenari di decarbonizzazione del sistema energetico piemontese al 2030, 2040 e 2050. Lo studio ha considerato tutti i principali settori energetici (elettricità, riscaldamento, trasporti e industria) e ha valutato diverse tecnologie (fotovoltaico, eolico, idrogeno, accumulo, efficienza). L’analisi territoriale tramite strumenti GIS ha permesso di mappare il potenziale delle fonti rinnovabili, rispettando vincoli ambientali e paesaggistici. Il dialogo continuo con la Regione ha reso gli scenari più realistici e aderenti alle priorità locali. Tra le azioni chiave emerse: l’espansione del fotovoltaico su tetto, regole dedicate per l’agrivoltaico, il risanamento energetico degli edifici, lo sviluppo di sistemi di accumulo e flessibilità, la decarbonizzazione dell’industria e il sostegno alle filiere locali. Questo approccio dimostra che, quando ricerca e istituzioni collaborano in modo strutturato, è possibile costruire strategie di decarbonizzazione attuabili, capaci di guidare la transizione verso un futuro a basse emissioni.

Abstract In this article, we present the study for the reclassification of the variability of the star CzeV961 by SSV-UAI-GRAV, classified by Variable Star Index as an EW eclipsing binary. In the same field of observation, there were two variable stars already discovered by Gaia but of an undefined type. In examining the comparison stars for our study, we then discovered a new variable star that had not yet been classified. The star CzeV961 turned out to be a Gamma Doradus variable star, like the two Gaia stars, while the newly discovered variable turned out to be an RS Canum Venaticorum type star.

Nel contesto dell’odierna trascrizione del mondo per mezzo delle tecnologie digitali, il presente testo si propone di indagarne le condizioni e le possibilità a partire da una genealogia del pensiero formale che ha portato a una scrittura matematica del concetto di «limite». Nella prima parte si mostra, secondo una prospettiva storica, viene mostrato il contributo decisivo alla rivoluzione scientifica dei saperi e della tecnica apportato dalla scrittura formale del limite come mediazione operativa tra finito e infinito. Nella seconda parte lo sguardo viene ampliato a un orizzonte che lega antico e moderno, a partire dalla questione degli incommensurabili, mostrando come il concetto di limite sia paradigmatico della modalità con cui la scrittura matematica si pone sulla frontiera del visibile e del conosciuto, frequentando i confini delle mappe del sapere finora tracciate. Nella terza parte si indaga la peculiarità della scrittura digitale del mondo come prodotto emblematico di tale tradizione.

Paper-based biosensors hold significant promise for point-of-care (POC) diagnostic applications. Among these, lateral flow assays (LFAs) are particularly appealing due to their ease of use, portability, and low cost. However, their limited sensitivity and qualitative output set drawbacks on their reliability and widespread application. In response to the growing need for rapid and consistent diagnostic and monitoring tools, Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) have emerged as powerful devices in biochemical sensing applications because of their high sensitivity, low operating voltage, and compatibility with a biological environment. In this work, we developed a printable OECT for biochemical sensing on a commercial cellulose membrane, commonly used as a detection substrate in LFA-based rapid tests. Constituting a self-standing, passive microfluidic platform, the system was designed to transport and interact with liquid samples, while ensuring a contamination-free zone for the active components. Inside a dry area delimited by a hydrophobic barrier, the OECT components include dispense-printed silver electrodes, a polystyrenesulfonate-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxy-thiophene) (PEDOT:PSS) channel and gate, and a solid-state electrolyte (SSE) layer. Outside the dry area, a PEDOT:PSS extended gate alone interacts with the analyte in the liquid sample, preventing channel contamination and enhancing the system stability. We investigated the effect of dopamine (DA) oxidation at the extended gate interface on the device response and observed variations in the transfer characteristics, transconductance and Ion/Ioff ratio, obtaining a limit of detection of 0.01 mM. With a maximum transconductance of approximately 4 mS, our system shows potential for the integration of an easy-to-fabricate device into an affordable biochemical assay, providing quantitative results at the point-of-care site to complement and reinforce the typical colorimetric response of LFAs.

Abstract Assistive robotics holds promise for supporting therapeutic and educational interventions for autistic children, yet key questions remain regarding its practical benefits, limitations, and ethical implications. This study critically examines a 4-month therapeutic laboratory in which a humanoid robot (Pepper) was integrated into weekly sessions with four autistic children (ages 11–14, level 1 support needs). Through a mixed-methods approach, combining behavioural observations, standardised questionnaires, and thematic analysis of video recordings, we evaluated the robot’s role in fostering autonomy, communication, and engagement. Quantitative results showed limited improvements in functional autonomy, while qualitative findings highlighted the robot’s potential to stimulate curiosity, collaborative behaviours, and social participation, especially through unexpected modalities such as internet meme references. Challenges emerged around conversational rigidity, limited adaptability, and user frustration due to breakdowns in feedback and interaction flow. The study underscores the value of participatory, co-designed robotics in therapeutic contexts and offers design-oriented recommendations for developing more responsive, inclusive, and culturally adapted robot behaviours in child-centered interventions.

Abstract This paper explores possible implementations of a quantum annealing-based algorithm, in the Quadratic unconstrained binary optimization method (QUBO) form, to solve the thermo-fluid dynamics problem associated with the design of critical components of aircraft environmental control systems, namely compact heat exchangers and ejectors (also known as jet pumps), used on rotary- or fixed- winged aircrafts environmental control system to mix two fluids and exchange thermal energy. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the implementation of the QUBO model based on compact heat exchangers lumped model and the SAE 1168–6 ejector design procedure, with the formalization of the mathematical problem and the comparison of results obtained with experimental tests, classical resolution approaches and the quantum optimized code, showing how the QUBO approach is an effective and efficient tools for design engineers tasked to design and validate equipment parameters.We start with a simple two-phase flow within a single-pass mini-channel heat exchanger, describing the mathematical formulation of the problem followed by a simplified implementation of the proposed quantum approaches, highlighting the main procedures of the calculation as well as the practical implications, advantages and disadvantages of the proposed method, e.g. a limited number of CFD simulations are required to evaluate air side heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop for particular designs within the defined design space, and the specific hardware required to implement the quantum process.

An advanced anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV)-based Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) sensor for cadmium (Cd) detection is presented in this study, which is cost-effective and efficient for in situ water monitoring, providing a crucial early warning mechanism, streamlining environmental monitoring, and facilitating timely intervention to safeguard public health and environmental safety. The rationale behind this work is to address the critical need for an in situ monitoring system for cadmium (Cd) in freshwater sources, particularly those adjacent to agricultural fields. Cd(II) is a highly toxic heavy metal that poses a significant threat to agricultural ecosystems and human health due to its rapid bioaccumulation in plants and subsequent entry into the food chain. The developed analytic device is composed of a commercial mercury salt-modified graphite screen-printed electrode (SPE) with a custom-designed innovative polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) flow detection cell. The flow cell was prototyped using 3D printing and replica moulding, with its design and performance validated through COMSOL Multiphysics simulations to optimize inflow conditions and ensure maximum analyte dispersion on the working electrode surface. Chemical detection was performed using square wave voltammetry, demonstrating a linear response for Cd(II) concentrations of 0 to 20 µg/L. The system exhibited robust analytical performance, enabling 25–30 daily analyses with consistent sensitivity within the Limit of Detection (LoD) set by the law of 3 µg/L.

BackgroundThe Italian National action plan to contrast antimicrobial resistance (PNCAR) was adopted in Italy with the aim of reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates through a “One Health” approach. The project “Support for the National Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance (SPiNCAR)” was developed to evaluate the level of implementation of actions outlined by the PNCAR, through a self-assessment tool, addressed to regional and local health authorities. This study presents the findings of the first use of the SPiNCAR tool in the Region of Piedmont, detailing the level of implementation as of 31 December 2022.MethodsThe self-assessment questionnaire is divided into 7 central "areas" representing the main actions against AMR: governance, surveillance and monitoring, appropriate use of antimicrobials, healthcare-associated infection (HAI) control and prevention, education and training, alliance among stakeholders, evaluation of the impact and implementation of the program. Areas are structured into two or more items called "standards", subdivided into "criteria”. Different questionnaires were developed for Regional and Local Authorities. Scores were calculated as the percentage of criteria met within each area, aggregated at both regional and local levels.ResultsBy analysing results at the regional level, it was possible to identify domains of strength in the areas of Governance (79%), Appropriate use of antimicrobials (70%), HAI Control and Prevention (68%) and areas for improvement in Alliance among Stakeholders (18%), Training (33%) and Surveillance (41%). Local authorities showed encouraging median results in Surveillance (37%), Appropriate Use of Antimicrobials (22,5%), and HAI Control and Prevention (21,5%), whereas Implementation (10,5%), Education and Training (8%) and Alliance among Stakeholders (2,5%) need to be improved.ConclusionsThe first SPiNCAR assessment offered valuable insights to enhance healthcare quality; the evaluation identified stakeholder engagement and training as priority areas for improvement and targeted interventions for AMR containment.