Eni (Italy)

The Central Solenoid (CS) plays a crucial role in plasma current drive and control in tokamak devices such as the Divertor Tokamak Test (DTT) facility, currently under development in Frascati, Italy. High-Temperature Superconductors (HTS), and in particular REBCO tapes, are gaining increasing interest for central solenoid applications due to their superior performance in high-field regimes, offering larger operational margins compared to conventional Low-Temperature Superconductors (LTS). This work presents the design and analysis of an HTS-based pancake-wound CS for the DTT tokamak, using a SECAS or VIPER-type REBCO conductor. A parametric study was developed to get a configuration to maximize the magnetic flux swing while ensuring compliance with mechanical fatigue constraints. The design was validated through finite element electromagnetic and mechanical analyses, and it is compared to a previous layer-wound LTS CS configuration.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in commercial demand for natural fibers. Consequently, numerous studies have concentrated on formulating innovative industrial production methodologies for natural fibers, with a particular emphasis on the environmental sustainability of production processes. Among natural fiber sources, bamboo has emerged as a leading candidate, attracting considerable interest due to its exceptional renewability, rapid growth, and low cultivation requirements. The contemporary industrial methodologies employed in the extraction of cellulose from bamboo frequently entail the utilization of concentrated solutions of strong acids and bases, often at elevated temperatures and with extended treatment durations. These processes generate highly polluting waste from mineral acids and bases, posing significant environmental challenges and ecosystem damage. In response to the prevailing concerns, there has been a marked increase in the focus on environmentally friendly techniques that combine enzymatic treatments, selective chemical reagents, and optimized mechanical processes. These processes facilitate the extraction of high-quality bamboo fibers, which are suitable for utilization in the textile industry and have the potential to replace synthetic fibers. This work demonstrates the efficacy of methodologies employing more diluted solutions than conventional approaches. Specifically, this study utilizes a weak base, such as NH4OH, in conjunction with hydrothermal extraction. It is therefore possible for dilute weak base solutions to yield natural fibers after a relatively brief period of processing, typically just a few hours.

Climate change imposes increasing stress on ecosystems worldwide through rising temperatures, altered precipitation regimes, and more frequent extreme events. In high-elevated environments, these pressures are often compounded by geomorphological disturbances, which represent a major stress factor shaping vegetation dynamics and biodiversity. Understanding how plant traits and functional diversity respond to such disturbances is therefore essential for predicting ecosystem responses to ongoing environmental change.In this study, we investigated how geomorphic disturbance influences plant functional traits and biodiversity along elevational gradients in subalpine to alpine ecosystems. We hypothesised that: (i) disturbance-driven differences in species composition leads to functional differentiation at the community level, (ii) disturbance acts as a stressor inducing intraspecific variability in functional traits, and (iii) the proportion of thermophilic species increases on disturbed plots, particularly at higher elevations. Across three study sites, we sampled the five most abundant species per plot to test the interspecific variability as well as the three most frequent species shared across plots to test the intraspecific variability along elevation gradients. Key plant functional traits (leaf area, leaf dry weight, SLA, plant height) were measured and analysed using t-tests and non-parametric statistical approaches. For explaining the differences found Generalise Additive Models were performed.Our results showed that, at the community level, only Specific Leaf Area (SLA) differed significantly between disturbed and undisturbed plots for the five most common species (interspecific variability). Furthermore, we could observe significant differences for the relative cover of bryophytes, lichens, dwarf shrubs, and trees. For herbs and graminoids the climate-induced growth (RC1) and the improved edaphic conditions (RC2) revealed to be more important. At the species level, disturbance-related stress led to significant intraspecific trait variability in several species, highlighting flexible trait responses under changing environmental conditions. Contrary to our expectations, the proportion of thermophilic species was consistently lower on disturbed plots compared to undisturbed plots across the entire elevational gradient, although it decreased with elevation in both plot types as expected.Overall, differences in SLA likely reflect shifts in functional group composition under disturbance stress. Observed intraspecific trait variability along abiotic and disturbance gradients provides valuable insight into the capacity of alpine plant species to adjust their morphology and physiology in response to environmental stress, with important implications for biodiversity and ecosystem resilience under climate change.

In groundwater flow modelling within mining environments, three main numerical approaches are commonly used: i) the Equivalent Porous Media (EPM), according to which the rock mass and its discontinuities are represented as a continuum; ii) the Discrete Fracture Network (DFN), where hydraulic properties are assigned to natural and/or anthropic discontinuities; iii) the hybrid approach, a combination of the above. To evaluate the advantages and limitations of each method, a selected mine located in the Metalliferous Hills (Colline Metallifere; GR), Tuscany Region, Italy, was selected as a case study. The mine is part of a five-unit complex, joined by a level at −200 m asl, that was active for pyrite extraction until 1981. It was selected due to the availability of hydrogeological and operational data covering a time span of almost 100 years, from around 1920 to 2024. Currently, two 3d transient numerical models have been developed with FEFLOW 10, following the hybrid and EPM approaches. In the former, 1-D anthropic discontinuities (tunnels, shafts, and wells) and 2-D natural discontinuities (major faults) have been represented as discrete features, while in the latter they are implemented as boundary conditions and zones with specific hydrogeological properties, respectively. Hence, the main difference between the two modelling approaches is the representation of geological and anthropic elements. Both models have been successfully used to simulate three managed flooding events that occurred in the period 1997-2014, during which groundwater levels in the mine were raised from −140 m asl to the current −95 m asl by controlling pumping rates of the dewatering system wells active 24/7. At this stage of the research project, the main objective is to evaluate which model better fits observations during managed flooding events. The best fitting model will be used to run predictive simulations of the planned dewatering systems shutdown, which will raise groundwater levels from the current −95 m asl to 70 m asl, where a drainage tunnel is located. In the next stage of the research project, both models will be compared with a DFN model, to evaluate which approach is the most representative of the hydrogeological conditions of the study area and suitable for applications of similar case studies.

Background and Objective: Performance evaluation in healthcare is essential to enhance service quality, resilience, and cost-effectiveness. In Italy, despite regulatory reforms such as Legislative Decree 150/2009 and tools like the Interregional Performance Evaluation System (IRPES), many healthcare organizations still struggle to implement integrated performance governance models. This narrative review aims to explore recent advancements in healthcare performance evaluation in Italy, compare them with selected European experiences, and identify key challenges and improvement opportunities. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focusing on literature published from 2014 to 2024, with emphasis on the past 5 years. Eligible articles were empirical studies or systematic reviews, written in English or Italian, addressing performance evaluation of healthcare professionals in Italy and selected European contexts. Studies unrelated to healthcare or published outside the specified timeframe were excluded. Data extraction was conducted qualitatively by thematic synthesis. Key Content and Findings: Out of more than 100 records screened, 30 articles met the inclusion criteria. The findings highlight persistent gaps in the adoption of governance-oriented evaluation models, with Italian Local Health Authorities (ASLs) often relying on administrative rather than strategic performance tools. While IRPES provides extensive benchmarking indicators, integration of long-term outcomes and public value frameworks remains limited. Innovative practices such as 360-degree feedback, competency-based evaluation, and the role of “professional managers” are emerging but unevenly implemented. Comparative insights from European countries underline the relevance of contextual flexibility and decentralised policy design. Conclusions: To modernize healthcare systems, performance management must strike a balance between quality, efficiency, and equity. Investments in training, technological tools, and collaborative governance are vital. Embracing public value principles and outcome-based evaluation can enhance transparency, staff engagement, and health service resilience. Future policies should address regional disparities, standardize evaluation practices, and support cultural change toward merit-based, participatory models.

Critical metals play a crucial role in advancing sustainable energy technologies, with their demand steadily increasing due to the global push for a circular economy. At present, critical metals are primarily extracted from mineral resources, but critical metal-contaminated soils could often be considered as an alternative source of these elements. There is a growing need for remediation approaches that not only decontaminate soils but also recover valuable metals, thereby aligning with the principles of a circular economy. This review aims to suggest soil remediation strategies able to tackle critical metals contamination, particularly those capable of extracting these elements (dual-purpose technologies). Existing studies indicate that critical metal-contaminated soils are commonly found near mining sites, but their increasing use is spreading these elements into the whole environment. Considering nickel as an example of critical metal, we examine some consolidated technologies which, in addition to remediation, enable the recovery of this critical metal from the soil. Phytomining demonstrated significant potential in extracting nickel from contaminated soils. Electrokinetic treatment and soil washing can be considered as a promising methodology to clean up soils, also facilitating nickel recovery.

• Novel FFF of HDPE/Expanded Graphite composites for PCM applications. • Melting range of 50–60 °C with a latent heat capacity of 70 J/g. • Thermal conductivity enhanced up to 0.8 W/m·K via expanded graphite addition • Excellent leakage control, shape stability, and enhanced mechanical stiffness. • Demonstrated suitability for thermal management in electronic devices. Organic Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are essential for passive cooling, yet their poor shape stability and low thermal conductivity limit their integration into advanced manufacturing techniques. Addressing this, we report a novel, high-performance functional composite filament developed for the first time for Additive Manufacturing (AM) via Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF). The composite leverages a non-microencapsulated PCM (fatty acid mixture, T m = 55 °C) confined within a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix, chosen for its low processing temperature (140–160 °C) to prevent PCM degradation. Expanded graphite (EG) was preliminarily vacuum-impregnated with the PCM and subsequently melt-compounded with HDPE, serving as a multifunctional filler to enhance both thermal transport and structural stability. The resulting filament was successfully processed into 3D-printed geometries, achieving a high PCM loading of 36 wt% and a melting enthalpy of 70 J/g. Comprehensive analysis revealed a significantly enhanced thermal conductivity, reaching 0.8 W/m·K, and a Figure of Merit of 0.71 · 10 4 W/(m 2 ·K 0.5 ·s 0.5 ), effectively balancing thermal response with energy density. Crucially, the synergistic architecture formed by the HDPE matrix and the EG functional filler ensures exceptional PCM shape stability and robust leakage resistance, while retaining superior mechanical integrity across the entire temperature range of the phase transition. This work demonstrates a viable and scalable manufacturing route for producing multifunctional, high-loading PCM composites with exceptional potential for thermal management in demanding applications like battery and electronic cooling.

Abstract The objective of this study was to demonstrate the technical and economic advantages of Single-Phase Retarded Acid (SPRA) in combination with a Particulate and Fiber-laden Degradable Diverter (PFDD) for stimulating long open hole carbonate intervals. These objectives were achieved through laboratory testing on field cores, which were used to calibrate the acidizing simulator. The calibrated simulator enabled the evaluation of multiple design sensitivities, including improvements in wormhole penetration, fluid distribution, total skin reduction, volume optimizations, and optimizations in deployment methods. The laboratory work involved Pore Volume to Break-Through (PVBT) testing to assess the efficiency of the proposed SPRA compared to 15% HCl in Field B. The PVBT test results were used to calibrate the acidizing simulator by determining an effective reaction coefficient (keff) and a flow fraction coefficient (f). PFDD dissolution was evaluated at bottom hole static temperature (BHST) in bottle tests with two brine types. Additional testing was performed on unstimulated and stimulated cores to evaluate PFDD dissolution on a core face, PFDD effectiveness at plugging a wormhole created by the SPRA, and PFDD dissolution effectiveness within a wormhole. PVBT testing demonstrated that SPRA achieved up to 76% reduction in the acid volume required to achieve breakthrough compared to 15% HCl. The calibration effort and post-calibration simulations revealed that acid penetration efficiency in Field B was lower than expected based on the baseline software correlations for both SPRA and 15% HCl; however, SPRA still outperformed 15% HCl in terms of wormhole efficiency and skin reduction. While the reduced efficiency resulted in less skin decrease than expected for both fluid systems, it was still possible to obtain total skin below 0. Bottle tests for the diverter showed complete dissolution with mass loss approaching 100% within 7 days at 90°C. Core face dissolution testing indicated a filter cake mass loss of approximately 95% after 10 days. Testing on the stimulated core demonstrated a 97% to 99% reduction in wormhole permeability immediately after PFDD placement, with complete recovery of the initial stimulated core permeability after 13 days dissolution time. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first instance of testing a fully degradable PFDD on a pre-stimulated core with the intent of evaluating the effectiveness at plugging the open wormhole channel as well as evaluating post-dissolution permeability in the wormhole itself.

Microneedling and PRX PLUS formulations are established strategies for enhancing multidimensional skin quality, yet their combined use has not been systematically investigated. This pilot prospective real-world study evaluated the clinical effectiveness, patient-reported outcomes, and tolerability of a combined microneedling and skin booster protocol. A prospective single-arm pilot study was conducted in an outpatient aesthetic practice, enrolling 15 women with signs of photoaging. All participants received three full-face treatment sessions at 21-day intervals. Assessments at baseline (T0) and 15 days after the final session (T1) included high-resolution imaging (VISIA® and Visioscope) to quantify key skin parameters, the validated FLO-11 questionnaire for patient-reported outcomes, and visual analogue scales for immediate tolerability. The combined protocol produced significant improvements across multiple skin-quality domains. VISIA analyses demonstrated notable reductions in texture irregularities (–26.2%, p=0.001), texture score (–25.8%, p=0.001), UV spots (–9.5%, p=0.027), pigmented spots (–14.1%, p=0.001), and redness (–32.6%, p=0.008). Visioscope findings further confirmed reductions in spots (–41.7%, p=0.001), pore visibility (–17.1%, p=0.001), sebum levels (–40.0%, p=0.005), and wrinkle severity (–12.4%, p=0.006). Patient-reported outcomes indicated improved skin smoothness (p=0.014), a less “stressed” appearance (p=0.015), and greater satisfaction with overall facial aesthetics (p=0.038). Tolerability was favorable, with only mild-to-moderate discomfort and no clinically relevant adverse events. This pilot study suggests that microneedling combined with skin booster provides early, multidimensional improvements in skin quality with excellent tolerability and patient satisfaction. Larger controlled studies are needed to validate these preliminary findings.