The book is dedicated to our families without whose patience and support it would have been impossible to write.

Albert: to my wife, Kristina, and all members of my extended family. This includes not only the children but also the grandchildren who are our future.

Giulio: to my wife Francesca, “the one, the beloved one, the most beautiful” (Ancient Egyptian Poem) and to our loved son Andrea.

Lijun: to my dear wife, Tao, and to my blessed daughters.