Achieving highly tailored control over both the spatial and temporal evolution of light's orbital angular momentum (OAM) on ultrafast timescales remains a critical challenge in photonics. Here, we introduce a method to modulate the OAM of light on a femtosecond scale by engineering a space-time coupling in ultrashort pulses. By linking azimuthal position with time, we implement an azimuthally varying Fourier transformation to dynamically alter light's spatial distribution in a fixed transverse plane.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFHealthcare-associated infections (HAIs) represent a major threat in Europe. Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are crucial to lower their occurrence, as well as antimicrobial stewardship to ensure appropriate use of antibiotics. Starting from Italian national data, this study aimed at: (i) describing IPC indicators, prevalence of HAIs, antimicrobial use and appropriateness of antibiotic use in Italy; (ii) estimating effects of IPC variables on HAI prevalence and on the proportion of antibiotics without specific reason.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: The effect of cognitive reserve (CR) on cognition in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (pwRRMS) has been partially investigated.
Objectives: We aimed to explore the long-term cognitive trajectories of pwRRMS based on their CR, measured using the Vocabulary Knowledge Test (VOC).
Methods: 78 pwRRMS underwent a neuropsychological evaluation at baseline and after a mean follow-up of 6.
Although calcification in the cardiovascular system is highly studied, the mechanisms behind it are not well understood. Current proposed mechanisms focus on cellular processes leading to, or controlling the unwanted mineralization in soft tissues. However, extracellular components such as collagen and elastin fundamentally regulate the mechanical properties of heart tissues.
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