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Background: Drug-coated balloons (DCB) have promising results in the management of in-stent restenosis (ISR), still their role remains a major challenge, and not well established in contemporary clinical practice. Aims: To provide a comprehensive appraisal of the efficacy and safety of DCBs in patients with in-stent restenosis (ISR). Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, web of Science, Ovid, and Cochrane Central from inception until 30 March, 2023. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared DCB versus DES in ISR patients. Our primary endpoints were major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and late lumen loss (LLL). Secondary clinical endpoints were all-cause death, cardiac death, MI, TLR, TVR, and stent thrombosis, and angiographic outcomes were MLD, and in-stent binary restenosis. Results: Ten RCTs comprising 1977 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The incidence of MACE was 15.57% in the DCB group compared to 14.13% in the DES group, with no significant difference in the risk of MACE following DCB (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87 to 1.44). Compared with the DES intervention, the risk of LLL was comparable to the DCB intervention (mean difference [MD] -0.08, 95% CI: -0.18 to 0.02), while the incidence of TLR was increased in the DCB intervention (OR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.2 to 1.99). Conclusion: DCB was comparable to DES implantation is ISR patients regarding clinical outcomes, however it showed an increase in TLR events. Moreover, a RCT with large sample size and longer follow-up duration is warrened to validate these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a new process, based on the green nanoparticles Fe3O4 and magnetization coupling for the treatment of saline well water. In this context, iron nanoparticles were synthesized using Eucalyptus globulus leaves. The nanomaterials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and infrared for identification. Batch experiments were conducted to illustrate the optimal parameters related to contact times and the mass of nanoparticles. The latter marked an optimal contact time of 100 min and a mass of 56 mg/L accompanied by a magnetic treatment for a contact time of 48 min. The results showed a significant (R2 = 0.93) water salinity reduction (67%) and a potential for improvement in the germination of tomato seeds (81%) through the investigation of the evolution of the length of the roots, the stems, and the number of germinated seeds. Coupling MNPs-magnetic field for reducing water salinity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precipitation mode of barium sulphate (BaSO4) in the presence of mineral additives plays an important role in many industrial processes. Therefore, in this paper, a study of the precipitation reaction of a saturated barium sulphate solution in the presence of metal ions Fe3+ and Mn2+, found in industrial waters and in the geochemical evolutions of paleoenvironments, is presented. XRD, conductivity, FTIR spectroscopy, and SEM were used to investigate the barite precipitation reaction in the presence of a known amount of Fe3+ and Mn2+ ions. Conductivity measurements showed that the presence of Fe3+ accelerated both induction and crystal growth stages. On the other hand, adding Mn2+ ions did not affect the kinetics of the precipitation reaction. Solid analysis showed that the barite lattice was doped with low levels of manganese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is an autoimmune disease that is frequently associated with other autoimmune conditions. Objective To perform serological screening for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in patients with HT. Methods Our study included 88 consecutive serum specimens of patients with confirmed HT and 88 sex- and age-matched healthy subjects. All study participants were tested for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides antibodies (CCP-Ab) and rheumatoid factor (RF). CCP-Ab and RF were performed using ELISA commercial kits. Statistical analysis was conducted using Epi Info, version 3. Results Out of 88 patients with HT, 15 (17.0%) had CCP-Ab or RF. The frequency of serological markers of RA was significantly higher in patients than in control individuals (17.0% vs 4.5%; P =.007). RF was more frequent in patients than in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (13.6% vs 3.4%; P =.01). Isolated RF-IgM was absent in all controls and present in 6 patients with HT (6.8% vs 0%; P =.02). Out of 14 male patients, 3 (21.4%) had antibodies of RA. There was no significant difference in age between patients with CCP-Ab or RF and those without. Conclusion A high frequency of serological markers of RA was highlighted in patients with HT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic, triggered by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has affected millions of people worldwide. Much research has been dedicated to our understanding of COVID-19 disease heterogeneity and severity, but less is known about recovery associated changes. To address this gap in knowledge, we quantified the proteome from serum samples from 29 COVID-19 convalescents and 29 age-, race-, and sex-matched healthy controls. Samples were acquired within the first months of the pandemic. Many proteins from pathways known to change during acute COVID-19 illness, such as from the complement cascade, coagulation system, inflammation and adaptive immune system, had returned to levels seen in healthy controls. In comparison, we identified 22 and 15 proteins with significantly elevated and lowered levels, respectively, amongst COVID-19 convalescents compared to healthy controls. Some of the changes were similar to those observed for the acute phase of the disease, i.e. elevated levels of proteins from hemolysis, the adaptive immune systems, and inflammation. In contrast, some alterations opposed those in the acute phase, e.g. elevated levels of CETP and APOA1 which function in lipid/cholesterol metabolism, and decreased levels of proteins from the complement cascade (e.g. C1R, C1S, and VWF), the coagulation system (e.g. THBS1 and VWF), and the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton (e.g. PFN1 and CFL1) amongst COVID-19 convalescents. We speculate that some of these shifts might originate from a transient decrease in platelet counts upon recovery from the disease. Finally, we observed race-specific changes, e.g. with respect to immunoglobulins and proteins related to cholesterol metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic, triggered by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has affected millions of people worldwide. Much research has been dedicated to our understanding of COVID-19 disease heterogeneity and severity, but less is known about recovery associated changes. To address this gap in knowledge, we quantified the proteome from serum samples from 29 COVID-19 convalescents and 29 age-, race-, and sex-matched healthy controls. Samples were acquired within the first months of the pandemic. Many proteins from pathways known to change during acute COVID-19 illness, such as from the complement cascade, coagulation system, inflammation and adaptive immune system, had returned to levels seen in healthy controls. In comparison, we identified 22 and 15 proteins with significantly elevated and lowered levels, respectively, amongst COVID-19 convalescents compared to healthy controls. Some of the changes were similar to those observed for the acute phase of the disease, i.e. elevated levels of proteins from hemolysis, the adaptive immune systems, and inflammation. In contrast, some alterations opposed those in the acute phase, e.g. elevated levels of CETP and APOA1 which function in lipid/cholesterol metabolism, and decreased levels of proteins from the complement cascade (e.g. C1R, C1S, and VWF), the coagulation system (e.g. THBS1 and VWF), and the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton (e.g. PFN1 and CFL1) amongst COVID-19 convalescents. We speculate that some of these shifts might originate from a transient decrease in platelet counts upon recovery from the disease. Finally, we observed race-specific changes, e.g. with respect to immunoglobulins and proteins related to cholesterol metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a challenging disease in its presentation and management as it may cause life-threatening hemorrhaging in vital organs and may resist several lines of treatment. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in treating patients with ITP. Methods: We systematically searched four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from inception until 10 October 2022. We included all clinical trials, either controlled or single arm, and prospective and retrospective observational studies that evaluate the efficacy and safety of MMF in patients with ITP. We assessed the risk of bias using three tools (ROBINS-I, Cochrane ROB-2, and NIH), each for eligible study design. Results: Nine studies were included in this meta-analysis, with a total of 411 patients with ITP. We found that MMF demonstrated an overall response rate of (62.09%; 95% CI = [43.29 to 77.84]) and the complete response rate was (46.75%; 95% CI = [24.84 to 69.99]). The overall proportion of adverse events was (12%; 95% CI = [6 to 24]). After the sensitivity analysis, the overall response rate became 50%; 95% CI = [38 to 63]) and the complete response rate became (32%; 95% CI = [24 to 42]). However, MMF did not appear to affect white blood cell counts or hemoglobin levels significantly. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that MMF appears to be an effective and relatively safe treatment option for patients with ITP when combined with steroids and even in those who have not responded to standard therapies (steroid-resistant cases). Further research with well-designed studies is warranted to better understand the factors influencing treatment response and to refine the use of MMF in the management of ITP. An interactive version of our analysis can be accessed from here: https://databoard.shinyapps.io/mycophenolate_meta/ [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Interventional cardiologists face challenges in managing chronic total occlusion (CTO) lesions, with conflicting results when comparing rotational atherectomy (RA) to conventional PCI. This meta-analysis aims to provide a critical evaluation of the safety and feasibility of RA in CTO lesions. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Ovid, and Cochrane central library until April 2023 were searched for relevant studies. MACE was our primary outcomes, other outcomes were all cause of death, cardiac death, MI, and TVR. Also, we reported angiographic outcomes as technical success, procedural success, and procedural complications in a random effect model. The pooled data was analyzed using odds ratio (OR) with its 95% CI using STATA 17 MP. Results: Seven studies comprising 5494 patients with a mean follow-up of 43.1 months were included in this meta-analysis. Our pooled analysis showed that RA was comparable to PCI to decrease the incidence of MACE (OR = 0.98, 95% CI [0.74 to 1.3], p = 0.9). Moreover, there was no significant difference between RA and conventional PCI in terms of other clinical or angiographic outcomes. Conclusion: Our study showed that RA had comparable clinical and angiographic outcomes as conventional PCI in CTO lesions, which offer interventional cardiologists an expanded perspective when addressing calcified lesions. PROSPERO registration: CRD42023417362. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Drug-coated balloons (DCBs) are an established strategy for coronary artery disease. However, the new generation drug-eluting stent (DES) is recommended for patients with Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) for coronary artery revascularization. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive appraisal of the efficacy of DCBs in patients with AMI undergoing PCI. Methods: We searched the WOS, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane CENTRAL till March 2023, for studies that compared DCBs versus DES in patients with AMI undergoing PCI. We used a random-effects model to compare major adverse cardiac events (MACE), cardiac death, all-cause death, myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization (TLR), stent thrombosis, Late lumen Loss (LLL), and minimum lumen diameter (MLD) between the two groups. Results: Thirteen studies comprising 2644 patients were included. The pooled OR showed non-inferiority of DCB over DES in terms of MACE (OR = 0.89, 95% CI [0.57 to 1.40], p = 0.63). When we defined MACE as a composite of cardiac death, MI, and TLR; the pooled OR favored DCB over DES (OR = 0.50, 95% CI [0.28 to 0.9], p = 0.02). Moreover, DCB was not inferior to DES in terms of all-cause mortality (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.43 to 1.8, p = 0.73), cardiac mortality, (OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.22 to 1.56, p = 0.29), MI (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.34 to 2.29, p = 0.79), stent thrombosis (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 0.35 to 4.23, p = 0.76), TLR (OR = 0.9, 95% CI: 0.43 to 1.93, p = 0.8), LLL (MD = -0.6, 95% CI: -0.3 to 0.19, p = 0.64), or MLD (MD = -0.4, 95% CI: -0.33 to 0.25, p = 0.76). Conclusion: Our meta-analysis indicated that DCB intervention was not inferior to DES in the PCI setting in patients with AMI, and can be recommended as a feasible strategy in AMI. PROSPERO registration: CRD42023412757. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects 8-33% of individuals worldwide, independent of age or gender. Diagnosis relies on mucosal lesions or symptomatic discomfort, validated by proton pump inhibitor (PPI) response. Lyon Consensus categorizes diagnostic tests as supportive, refuting, or inconclusive. A retrospective cohort study on 78 pediatric subjects at the 'Sfântul Ioan' Galați Hospital (February 2018-October 2020) aimed to assess GER incidence and management principles. Data analyzed using SPSS v26 revealed urban predominance (66.7%) and varied age distribution (1 month to 18 years), with heartburn as a prevalent symptom. Treatment modalities included antacids, PPIs, H2RAs, and prokinetics. Symptom relief and therapeutic response guided management, with PPIs commonly administered. This study underscores the need for comprehensive GERD diagnosis and tailored therapeutic strategies in pediatric populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a prolonged surge scenario, the COVID-19 pandemic has offered an unparalleled opportunity to improve hospital surge capacity (SC) understanding and the ability to manage it. In this study, the authors report the experience of a large hospital network and evaluate potential relationships between Intensive Care Units SC (ICU-SC) and some hospital-related variables: bed occupancy, emergency department admissions, ward admission from ED, and elective surgery procedures. Pearson's partial correlation coefficient (r) has been used to define the relationship between SC and the daily values of the above variables, collected through a dedicated digital platform that also ensured a regular quality check of the data. The observation has concerned several levels of analysis, namely two different types of SC calculation (SC base—SCb and SC actual—SCa), hospital category level and multi-hospital level, and two consecutive pandemic waves. Among the 16 hospitals observed, the correlation was shown to be moderate-positive with non-ICU bed occupancy (r/ = 0.62, r/ = 0.54), strong/moderate with ICU bed occupancy (r/ = 0.72, r/ = 0.54), and moderate with ward admissions from ED (r/ = 0.50, r/ = 0.51) On the contrary, the correlation proved to be moderate-negative with ED admissions (r/ = − 0.69, r/ = − 0.62) and low with the number of elective surgery procedures (r/ = − 0.10, r/ = − 0.16). This study identified a positive correlation between SC and three variables monitored: ICU bed occupancy, non-ICU bed occupancy, and ward admissions from ED. On the contrary, the correlation was negative for ED admission and the number of elective surgery procedures. The results have been confirmed across all levels of analysis adopted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research concerns the study of the adsorption of methylene blue, used to stain living tissues and in several fields, on purified celluloses (CMFs) extracted from Schinus molle. The morphological and physico-chemical properties of the raw material and the extracted cellulose were determined. Adsorption experiments were performed to analyze initial dye concentration, adsorbent dosage, pH and contact time effects. The experiments showed that adsorption at pH 6–10 was appropriate and the equilibrium was established after 60 min. The adsorption was perfectly adjustable to the pseudo-second-order and fit well with Langmuir's mathematical models with maximum adsorption capacity of 125 mg g− 1. Moreover, it seems that Dubinin Radushkevich model gives a good fit with experimental data with adsorption energy of 5.49 kJ mol− 1, indicating a physical sorption process of methylene blue onto obtained cellulose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the impact of biochar on eggplant growth, physiology, and yield parameters under separate and associated drought and salt stress, a pot experiment was carried out. An eggplant variety ('Bonica F1') was exposed to one NaCl concentration (S1 = 300 mM), three irrigation regimes (FI: full irrigation; DI: deficit irrigation; ARD: alternate root-zone drying irrigation), and one dose of biochar (B1 = 6% by weight). Our findings demonstrated that associated drought and salt stress had a greater negative impact on 'Bonica F1' performance in comparison to single drought or salt stress. Whereas, adding biochar to the soil improved the ability of 'Bonica F1' to alleviate the single and associated effects of salt and drought stress. Moreover, in comparison to DI under salinity, biochar addition in ARD significantly increased plant height, aerial biomass, fruit number per plant, and mean fresh weight per fruit by 18.4%, 39.7%, 37.5%, and 36.3%, respectively. Furthermore, under limited and saline irrigation, photosynthetic rate (An), transpiration rate (E), and stomatal conductance (gs) declined. In addition, the interaction between ARD and biochar effectively restored the equilibrium between the plant chemical signal (ABA) and hydraulic signal (leaf water potential). As a result, mainly under salt stress, with ARD treatment, intrinsic water use efficiency (WUEi) and yield traits were much higher than those in DI. Overall, biochar in combination with ARD could be an efficient approach for preserving crop productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis syndrome is fatal hyper‐inflammatory condition due to over‐activation of the immune system, being of primary and secondary types. This case report emphasizes the difficulty and challenge in and of the HLH diagnosis, and therapy should be employed promptly given the high mortality associated with HLH. Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis is a rare and often fatal inflammatory disease that requires high suspicion in any patient with fever, unexplained cytopenia, splenomegaly and increased inflammatory markers. If diagnosed, treatment should be administered promptly without delay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive leaves are one of the most prevalent by-products of the olive oil industry and may be exploited as a low-cost source of high-added-value phenolic compounds. The pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food sectors are becoming more interested in the therapeutic effects attributed to these bioactive components in olive leaf extract. This work offers some indication of the chemical potentialities of oleasters leaf as a new source of functional food. Qualitative and quantitative compositional analysis revealed 14 major phenolic compounds among which oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, apigenin 7-O-glucoside, tyrosol, epicatechin, and vanillic acid were identified. The bioactive compounds that presented the least concentration were gallic, vanillic, p-coumaric, and chlorogenic acids. Maximum concentrations were found for hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and luteolin-7-o-glucoside in wild olive leaves. Concerning the antioxidant activity, the oleaster leaves showed high antioxidant proprieties using ABTS (acide 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-éthylbenzothiazoline6-sulfonique) method. Chemometrics (principal component analysis (PCA) and dendrogram analysis) were applied to the quantitative phenolic compounds data, allowing good discrimination of the phenols according to their antioxidant activities. The oleaster leaves seem to be a source of antioxidants and can be an attractive tool for industrial uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in biotechnology have ensured that one of the main olive tree by-products is olive leaf extract (OLE), a rich source in bioactive compounds. The aim of this work was to study the phenolic composition in different OLEs of three Tunisian varieties, namely, 'Sayali', 'Tkobri', and 'Neb Jmel'. The in vitro biodigestibility effect after 'Sayali' OLE addition to Californian-style 'Hojiblanca' table olives was also studied. This OLE contained bioactive molecules such as hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, oleropeine, Procianidine B1 (PB1), and p-cumaric acid. These compounds were also found in fresh olives after OLE was added. Furthermore, from fresh extract to oral digestion, the detected amount of bioavailable phenol was higher; however, its content decreased according to each phase of gastric and intestinal digestion. In the final digestion phase, the number of phenols found was lower than that of fresh olives. In addition, the phenolic content of Californian-style 'Hojiblanca' table olives decreased during the in vitro digestion process. The antioxidant activity of this variety decreased by 64% and 88% after gastrointestinal digestion, being the highest antioxidant capacity found in both simulated gastric and intestinal fluid, respectively. The results show us that the 'Sayali' variety is rich in phenolic compounds that are bioavailable after digestion, which could be used at an industrial level due to the related health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was analyzing the use of olive leaf extracts (OLE) obtained from two local Tunisian olive tree cultivars 'Chemlali' and 'Sayali' to reduce the acrylamide in Californian-style black olives. The phenol profile, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity of the two OLE extracts were evaluated. The principal phenols found were hydroxytyrosol (1809.6 ± 25.3 mg 100 g−1), oleuropein (2662.2 ± 38 mg 100 g−1) and luteolin-7-O-glucoside (438.4 ± 38 mg 100 g−1) presented higher levels in 'Sayali' variety. Small differences were observed between the two kinds of extracts used; the greatest activity of OLE was observed against S. choleraesuis, with values up to 50% inhibition. The extract of 'Chemlali' cultivar was added to the Californian-style table olive, improving its phenol content and its antioxidant characteristics without negatively affecting its sensorial characteristics; these olives showed the highest firmness and proper quality characteristics. The gastrointestinal activity on the acrylamide concentration showed a partial degradation of this compound through the digestion, although the addition of the extract does not seem influence in its gastrointestinal digestion. These findings prove the usefulness of by-products to generate a high-quality added-value product, and this would also be relevant as a step towards a more sustainable, circular economy model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of heat and drought stresses, either individually or combined, on physiological and biochemical parameters of four eggplant varieties (Solanum melongena L.) was investigated. The results showed that associated stress generated the highest increment in proline content, MDA concentration, and H2O2 accumulation and generated the lowest increment in RWC. In addition, 'Bonica' and 'Galine' exhibited higher starch accumulation and lower electrolyte leakage (EL) under combined stress. Moreover, drought and heat stresses applied individually contributed to a substantial decline in Chla, Chlb, total Chl, Chla/b, and carotenoids (p > 0.05) in 'Adriatica' and 'Black Beauty'. The decreasing level of pigments was more substantial under associated drought and heat stresses. The simultaneous application of drought and heat stresses reduced PSII efficiency (Fv/Fm), quantum yield (ΦPSII), and photochemical efficiency (qp) and boosted non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) levels. However, the change recorded in the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters was less pronounced in 'Bonica' and 'Galine'. In addition, the gas exchange parameters, transpiration rate (E), CO2 assimilation rate (A), and net photosynthesis (Pn) were decreased in all varieties under all stress conditions. However, the reduction was more pronounced in 'Adriatica' and 'Black Beauty'. Under associated stress, antioxidant enzymes, SOD, APX, CAT, and GR exhibited a significant increment in all eggplant cultivars. However, the rising was more elevated in 'Bonica' and 'Galine' (higher than threefold increase) than in 'Adriatica' and 'Black Beauty' (less than twofold increase). Furthermore, 'Bonica' and 'Galine' displayed higher non-enzyme scavenging activity (AsA and GSH) compared to 'Adriatica' and 'Black Beauty' under associated stress. Under stressful conditions, nutrient uptake was affected in all eggplant cultivars; however, the root, stem, and leaf N, P, and K contents, in 'Adriatica' and 'Black Beauty' were lower than in 'Bonica' and 'Galine', thereby showing less capacity in accumulating nutrients. The coexistence of drought and heat stresses caused more damage on eggplant varieties than the single appearance of drought or heat stress separately. 'Bonica' and 'Galine' showed better distinguished performance compared to 'Adriatica' and 'Black Beauty'. The superiority of 'Bonica' and 'Galine' in terms of tolerance to heat and drought stresses was induced by more effective antioxidant scavenging potential, enhanced osmolyte piling-up, and prominent ability in keeping higher photosynthetic efficiency and nutrient equilibrium compared with 'Adriatica' and 'Black Beauty'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Effectiveness of autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) is well known, but in secondary–progressive (SP)‐MS it is still controversial. Therefore, AHSCT activity was evaluated in SP‐MS using low‐dose immunosuppression with cyclophosphamide (Cy) as a comparative treatment. Methods: In this retrospective monocentric 1:2 matched study, SP‐MS patients were treated with intermediate‐intensity AHSCT (cases) or intravenous pulses of Cy (controls) at a single academic centre in Florence. Controls were selected according to baseline characteristics adopting cardinality matching after trimming on the estimated propensity score. Kaplan–Meier and Cox analyses were used to estimate survival free from relapses (R‐FS), survival free from disability progression (P‐FS), and no evidence of disease activity 2 (NEDA‐2). Results: A total of 93 SP‐MS patients were included: 31 AHSCT, 62 Cy. Mean follow‐up was 99 months in the AHSCT group and 91 months in the Cy group. R‐FS was higher in AHSCT compared to Cy patients: at Year 5, 100% versus 52%, respectively (p < 0.0001). P‐FS did not differ between the groups (at Year 5: 70% in AHSCT and 81% in Cy, p = 0.572), nor did NEDA‐2 (p = 0.379). A sensitivity analysis including only the 31 "best‐matched" controls confirmed these results. Three neoplasms (2 Cy, 1 AHSCT) and two fatalities (2 Cy) occurred. Conclusions: This study provides Class III evidence, in SP‐MS, on the superior effectiveness of AHSCT compared to Cy on relapse activity, without differences on disability accrual. Although the suppression of relapses was observed in the AHSCT group only, AHSCT did not show advantages over Cy on disability, suggesting that in SP‐MS disability progression becomes based more on noninflammatory neurodegeneration than on inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few data are available so far on the antibody-mediated immune response to anti-SARS-Cov2 vaccination in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) treated with disease-modifying treatments (DMTs), therefore this issue was explored in a real-life cohort of pwMS. Materials and methods: Retrospective monocentric study on anti-spike protein antibody response in pwMS who had received vaccination for Sars-Cov2. Adverse events following vaccination were also recorded. Results: One hundred and twenty pwMS were included: 83 females (69%); median age at vaccination 42 years (range 21–73); 112/120 patients (93%) were receiving DMTs at vaccination. Anti-spike protein IgG antibodies were detectable in 102/120 (85%) cases overall, being the proportion lower in pwMS receiving anti-CD20 antibodies (14/31, 45%) compared to non-depletive treatments (77/78, 99%), p < 0.0001. Median anti-spike titre was lower in anti-CD20 antibodies and fingolimod-treated pwMS compared to those receiving other DMTs, and it correlated with anti-CD20 treatment duration (R − 0.93, p < 0.0001) and with age at vaccination in pwMS not receiving depletive treatments (R − 0.25, p = 0.028). Baseline CD19+ cell count (where available) was higher in the responder group than in non-responders, p < 0.0001. Two symptomatic COVID-19 infections were diagnosed over a median follow-up of 5 months (range 2–7); adverse events were aligned with the published literature. Conclusion: Antibody response to anti-COVID-19 vaccines was detected in most of the pwMS analysed, but frequency of responders was reduced in those receiving CD20 depleting therapies compared to other DMTs-treated pwMS. Investigations on cell-mediated immune response are needed to assess whether a protective immune response is elicited also in non-antibody responders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aqueous extract from the bark of Punica granatum L. was invested to generate CuO nanoparticles from CuSO4 using a green, economical, ecological, and clean method. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized and were successfully used as adsorbents for methyl green retention of an absorptive capacity amounting to 28.7 mg g−1. Methyl green equilibrium adsorption data were correlated to the Langmuir model following the pseudo-second order kinetics model. This study clearly corroborates that copper nanoparticles exhibit a high potential for use in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: There are gaps in knowledge regarding the association between the ABO blood group and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) immediate and long‐term outcomes. We aimed to investigate the association of ABO blood group with COVID‐19 in‐hospital adverse outcomes and to determine whether ABO blood group is associated with post‐COVID‐19 persistent symptoms. Methods: This was a single‐center longitudinal observational study that included patients who presented with symptoms suggestive of COVID‐19 infection and a positive test for COVID‐19 and were able to attend the out‐patient clinic after 6 months following acute COVID‐19. The main outcomes were intensive care unit admission, the requirement for respiratory support, in‐hospital death, and persistent symptoms. χ2 test and regression analysis were used to analyze the collected data. Results: A total of 169 patients were enrolled for the assessment of in‐hospital adverse outcomes of whom 86 patients were included for the assessment of persistent symptoms after the exclusion of deceased patients or patients not attended the out‐patient clinic. Patients with blood group B had higher prevalence of in‐hospital death compared to blood group O (39% vs. 13%, p = 0.01) and this persisted after adjusting for sex (odds ratio, OR [confidence interval, CI] = 1.4 [1.1–2.1], p = 0.04), while patients with blood group AB had higher prevalence of requiring respiratory support than blood group O (54% vs. 10%, p = 0.02) and this persisted after adjusting for age (OR [CI] = 1.5 [1.1–2.3], p = 0.02). Concerning the association of ABO blood group and long‐term symptoms, blood group AB showed a higher prevalence of palpitation (p < 0.001) and dizziness (p = 0.02) than other blood groups. Conclusions: Blood groups AB and B are significantly associated with respiratory support use and in‐hospital death, respectively, compared to blood group O. Blood group AB is significantly associated with persistent palpitation and dizziness compared to other blood groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we evaluated the use of prickly pear seed cake, a by-product of prickly pear seed oil extraction, as a new precursor for producing activated carbon by phosphoric acid activation, and the obtained carbon's capacity for heavy metal removal from aqueous solution. Response surface methodology based on the full factorial design at two levels (24) was developed to reduce the number of experiments and reach optimal preparation conditions for the removal of cadmium and lead ions from aqueous solutions. Design Expert 11.1.2.0 Trial software was used for generating the statistical experimental design and analyzing the observed data. Factors influencing the activation process, such as carbonization temperature, activation temperature, activation time, and impregnation ratio, were studied. Responses were studied in depth with an analysis of variance to estimate their significance. Each response was outlined by a first-order regression equation demonstrating satisfactory correspondence between the predicted and experimental results as the adjusted coefficients of correlation. Based on the statistical data, the best conditions for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solution by the obtained activated carbon were indicated. The maximum iodine number and methylene blue index were 2527.3 mg g−1 and 396.5 mg g−1, respectively, using activated carbon obtained at the following conditions: Tc = 500 °C, Ta = 500 °C, impregnation ratio = 2:1 (g H3PO4: g carbon), and activation time of two hours. The maximum adsorption reached 170.2 mg g−1 and 158.4 mg g−1 for Cd2+ and Pb2+, respectively, using activated carbon obtained at the following conditions: Tc = 600 °C, Ta = 400 °C, impregnation ratio = 2:1 (g H3PO4: g carbon), and activation time of one hour. The activated carbon obtained was characterized by Boehm titration, pH of point of zero charge (pHPZC), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area (SBET), and scanning electron microscopy. Adsorption was performed according to different parameters: pH solution, adsorbent dosage, temperature, contact time, and initial concentration. Regeneration experiments proved that the obtained activated carbon still had a high removal capacity for Cd2+ and Pb2+ after five regeneration cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work is to investigate the adsorption of an anionic dye, the Murexide (MX) present in aqueous solution, on activated carbon, derived from prickly pear seed cake biomass after bio-oil extraction. The obtained adsorbent used was characterized by Bohem titration, pH of point of zero charge (pHPZC), FTIR spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area (SBET), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The different experimental parameters of the adsorption process, such as temperature, contact time, initial dye concentration, and adsorbent dose, were studied. For the optimization of the process, the effects of these parameters were investigated using the full factorial experimental design methodology. Design Expert 11.1.2.0 Trial software was used for generating the statistical experimental design and analysing the observed data. Langmuir and Freundlich's adsorption models were employed to provide a description of the equilibrium isotherm. The adsorption process was found to obey Langmuir, which indicates that the Murexide had formed a monolayer onto activated carbon. Furthermore, according to the regression coefficients, it was observed that the kinetic adsorption data can fit better by the pseudo-second-order model compared to the first-order Lagergren's model. The thermodynamic studies indicated that the adsorption of Murexide occurs in a spontaneous and exothermic process. The regeneration process of the exhausted adsorbent was studied to assess the economic and operational feasibility. According to the obtained findings, it is proposed that the activated carbon prepared from prickly pear seed cake retains a high potential for Murexide removal and is suitable for repetitive usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celiac disease is a multisystem disorder in children and adults; it is considered as one of the most important malabsorption syndromes related to an auto-immune mediated response to gluten-containing food in a genetically predisposed patient. The most common involved system is the Gastrointestinal tract. Association with other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disease and diabetes mellitus type 1 is well known but autoimmune mediated hemolytic anemia that responded to a gluten-free diet was interesting to be found. A six years old male previously healthy child, presented with pallor and reduced activity, dark-colored urine, with clinical and laboratory features of hemolytic anemia, and multiple blood transfusions within a year of medical care-seeking to finally diagnosed with celiac disease and responded to a gluten-free diet of about 8 months now with no need of blood transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is highly effective in reducing new inflammatory activity in aggressive multiple sclerosis (MS). A remarkable decrease of serum neurofilament light chains (sNfL) concentration, a marker of axonal damage, was reported in MS following high-intensity regimen AHSCT, but hints for potential neurotoxicity had emerged. sNfL and brain atrophy were therefore analysed in a cohort of patients with aggressive MS treated with intermediate-intensity AHSCT, exploring whether sNfL might be a reliable marker of disability progression independent from new inflammation (i.e. relapses and/or new/gadolinium-enhancing MRI focal lesions). Methods: sNfL concentrations were measured using SIMOA methodology in peripheral blood from relapsing-remitting (RR-) or secondary-progressive (SP-) MS patients undergoing AHSCT (MS AHSCT), collected before transplant and at months 6 and 24 following the procedure. sNfL measured at a single timepoint in SP-MS patients not treated with AHSCT without recent inflammatory activity (SP-MS CTRL) and healthy subjects (HD) were used as controls. The rate of brain volume loss (AR-BVL) was also evaluated by MRI in MS AHSCT cases. Results: Thirty-eight MS AHSCT (28 RR-MS; 10 SP-MS), 22 SP-MS CTRL and 19 HD were included. Baseline median sNfL concentrations were remarkably higher in the MS AHSCT than in the SP-MS CTRL and HD groups (p = 0.005 and <0.0001, respectively), and levels correlated with recent inflammatory activity. After a marginal (not significant) median increase observed at month 6, at month 24 following AHSCT sNfL concentrations decreased compared to baseline by median 42.8 pg/mL (range 2.4–217.3; p = 0.039), reducing by at least 50% in 13 cases, and did not differ from SP-MS CTRL (p = 0.110) but were still higher than in HD (p < 0.0001). Post-AHSCT AR-BVL normalised in 55% of RR-MS and in 30% of SP-MS. The effectiveness and safety of AHSCT were aligned with the literature. Conclusion: sNfL concentrations correlated with recent inflammatory activity and were massively and persistently reduced by intermediate-intensity AHSCT. Association with response to treatment assessed by clinical or MRI outcomes was not observed, suggesting a good sensitivity of sNfL for recent inflammatory activity but low sensitivity in detecting ongoing axonal damage independent from new focal inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal pollution is a challenging concern that threatens the soil environment and human health worldwide. The purpose of this work is to assess the heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Zn, and Pb) pollution in the urban and peri-urban soils in and around Setif city, eastern Algeria. The work combines chemical analysis of thirty-six soil samples, statistical valuation and interpretation of chemical data and pollution indices (geoaccumulation index, pollution index, and integrated pollution index) with thematic mapping. The average concentrations (in mg/kg) of Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn were found < 0.02, 43.35, 43.75, 331.20, and 78.26 mg/kg, respectively. Compared with the French regulatory limits (AFNOR U44-041), Cd, Cr, and Cu still non-hazardous at Setif city scale; however, Zn and Pb concentrations are two to three times higher than the background values referred to the Chinese B n standard (GB15618-1995). The pollution indices indicate that Pb and Zn represent the highest threats among the studied pollutants and polluted wide areas of anthropogenic activities located respectively in the oldest district of the city, near the industrial zone and near uncontrolled landfill of domestic and industrial waste. Cu, Pb, and Zn originate seemly from vehicle emission, particles of brakes and tires, and industrial emissions. However, Cr distribution is uncorrelatable with anthropogenic sources. The Cr with an average concentration less than the background value derives seemly from animal feces and organic fertilizers. The integrated pollution index shows that the accumulation of heavy metals in the soils of Setif city from anthropogenic sources reached alarming levels that can disperse into the environment and threaten the human health. The urbanization and industrial development of Setif city are expected to grow and a subsequent heavy metal pollution will be rising prior issue. Corrective measures should be endeavored by the local authorities to mitigate the current environmental situation and a sustainable development plan for the city should be anticipated to guarantee optimal future environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The are conflicting reports on the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) continued treatment on clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients. Material and methods: Patients presented with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 infection were enrolled between 5 April 2021, and 5 June 2021. Patients who survived acute stage of the disease were asked to attend out-patient clinic after six months following COVID-19 infection diagnosis. Results: A total of 162 patients were enrolled in this study. ARB users showed significant independent association with lower fatality rate as compared to ACEI/ARB-naïve patients [OR (CI) = 0.1(0.0-0.5), p = 0.01]. The prevalence of respiratory support use and intensive care unit (ICU) admission was numerically, but not statically significant, lower among ARB users than non-ARB users. The distribution of in-hospital adverse outcome was numerically lower among ACEI users than in non ACEI users, though the association did not reach statistical significance. ARB users showed significant independent association with persistent cough [OR (CI) = 2 (1.1-10), p = 0.02]. No significant differences in other long term symptoms were found between ARB users and nonusers. On the other hand, chest pain showed higher prevalence among ACEI users than in non-ACEI users. After adjusting for baseline comorbidities, chest pain association with ACEI user was not persisted. No significant differences in other long term symptoms were found between ACEI users and nonusers. Conclusion: ARB and ACEI users showed low prevalence of in-hospital adverse outcome compared to ARB/ACEI nonusers. ARB showed significant and independent association with persistent cough. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study aimed to assess the long-term persistent symptoms of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and COVID-19 infection at 9 months after acute infection. Methods: This single-center cross-sectional study was conducted from May 20 to June 1, 2021. Results: A total of 112 patients were included in the present study. The most frequently reported persistent symptoms among DM group were fatigue (p = 0.01), shortness of breath (p = 0.01), and chest pain (p = 0.02) compared to non-DM group. Sulfonylurea use was associated with persistent cough (p = 0.04). Conclusion: Long-term persistent symptoms of COVID-19 infection are common among patients with DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new sulfoximine derived bis(fluoroalkyl)phosphoramidates of the type MeRS(O)NP(O)(ORF)2 (R = Me or Ph; RF = CH2CF3, CH2C2F5, CH(CF3)2, CH2CH2C6F13 or CH2CH2C8F17) have been synthesized from phosphoramidation reaction of sulfoximine with bis(polyfluoroalkyl)phosphites as phosphorylating agents. These fluoroalkyl phosphoramidates were characterized by multinuclear (1H, 13C, 19F and 31P) NMR, IR and elemental analyses. Different literature methods were examined; results showed that whilst the presence of fluoroalkoxy groups gave better reactivity than non fluorinated analogs in such reactions, the choice of the method for phosphoramidate formation depended upon the nature of both sulfoximine and fluoroalkoxy groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important preliminary tasks in a transcription system of historical document images is text line segmentation. Nevertheless, this task remains complex due to the idiosyncrasies of ancient document images. In this article, we present a complete framework for text line segmentation in historical Arabic or Latin document images. A two-step procedure is described. First, a deep fully convolutional networks (FCN) architecture has been applied to extract the main area covering the text core. In order to select the highest performing FCN architecture, a thorough performance benchmarking of the most recent and widely used FCN architectures for segmenting text lines in historical Arabic or Latin document images has been conducted. Then, a post-processing step, which is based on topological structure analysis is introduced to extract complete text lines (including the ascender and descender components). This second step aims at refining the obtained FCN results and at providing sufficient information for text recognition. Our experiments have been carried out using a large number of Arabic and Latin document images collected from the Tunisian national archives as well as other benchmark datasets. Quantitative and qualitative assessments are reported in order to firstly pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses of the different FCN architectures and secondly to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed post-processing method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A green protocol has been developed for the preparation of 2,2′-(arylmethylene)bis(3-hydroxy-5,5-dimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-ones) following the multicomponent condensation reaction between aromatic alde-hydes and dimedone with excellent yields. The reaction was carried out in water under microwave irradiation in the presence of montmorillonite KSF as a catalyst. The synthesized compounds were used for the functionaliza-tion of MCM-41 silica nanoparticles prepared by the modified Stöber method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Nanomaterials, such as Ag-nanoparticles (AgNPs), have recently been shown to have a broad range of applications in the chemical industry, medicine, biology, and many areas. In this work, the effect of nanostructure on the biological efficiency of prepared surfactants (R10, R12) based on the benzamide group was reported. FTIR and 1HNMR spectra were collected to confirm the structure of these surfactants. In addition, the nanostructures of the prepared surfactants assembled on Ag-nanoparticles (AgNPs) were investigated using UV and TEM techniques. Moreover, the antimicrobial properties of the prepared surfactants and their associated nanostructures were studied. The results showed that, with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, the antibacterial effectiveness of R12AgNPs against all bacteria was better than R12. In contrast, the antibacterial activity of R10AgNPs against all bacteria was lower than R10. This might be explained by the fact that AgNPs were effective on the manufactured surfactant's CMC (R10), which decreased the amount of surfactant molecules at the cell membrane and decreased the antibacterial activity. The outcomes showed that the cationic surfactants (R10, R12) that were synthesized favored AgNP dispersion and enhanced their activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A one-pot synthesis of new bis(polyfluoroalkyl)dialkylaminophosphoramidates (RF(CH2)2O)2P(O)NR2 (1–6) (RF = C6F13, NR2 = NC5H10 (1), NC4H8 (2), NEt2 (3); RF = C8F17, NR2 = NC5H10 (4), NC4H8 (5), NEt2 (6)) and polyfluoroalkyl bis(dialkylamino)phosphoramidates RF(CH2)2OP(O)(NR2)2 (9–14) (RF = C6F13, NR2 = NC5H10 (9), NC4H8 (10), NEt2 (11); RF = C8F17, NR2 = NC5H10 (12), NC4H8 (13), NEt2 (14)) was performed through phosphorylation of corresponding highly fluorinated alcohols with P(O)Cl3 in dry diethyl ether followed by aminolysis. However, the former phosphoramidates (1–6) and corresponding morpholinyl derivatives 7 and 8 were alternatively prepared in better yields from phosphoramidation reaction of bis(fluoroalkyl)phosphites with amines in the presence of I2 and H2O2 in dichloromethane. All these phosphoramidates were obtained in good yields and characterized by multinuclear (1H, 13C, 31P and 19F) NMR, IR spectroscopy and HRMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research approach of several composite materials with 12 layers were suggested from perlon, kevlar and woven carbon fibers, and natural knitted kenaf, the purpose findings mechanical, physical properties and fatigue life that help to use the socket with good design at longest period. There are two best types of composite materials are used for to analysis of the fatigue and tensile properties of prosthetic socket below knee which laminated by using vacuum system. The pressure inside the stump of patient and the socket was 165 kpa. Originality of using natural kenaf fibers led to the improvement of the maximum tensile strength 39.35% and safety factor of 2.52, with research limitations at the lowest costs and longest period of time. So, the experimental and numerical techniques were used to calculate the fatigue characterizations for effect of kenaf reinforcement fiber of composite materials used. Therefore, the experimental work included manufacturing for composite samples with different lamination layers and various layer number of kenaf fiber, in addition to, calculated the mechanical properties and fatigue life of its samples. The experimental results of fatigue have a good agreement with those obtained using the Finite Element approach. It was found that sample with kenaf has a maximum number of cycles up to failure =18.35 × 105 cycle at stress ratio (R= -1). The analytical part, using ANSYS2020 R2 to model (BK) from suggested materials with and without kenaf for the patient suffering from lower knee amputation for diabetes. Practical implications of experimental and numerical methodology showed that kenaf fibers have achieved the requirements of safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) is a valuable option in aggressive relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), but its efficacy in secondary progressive (SP)-MS is still controversial. Objective: Assessing efficacy of aHSCT in SP-MS by clinical-radiological outcomes. Methods: Open-label monocentric retrospective study enrolling consecutive SP-MS patients treated with BEAM-aHSCT in the period 1999–2016. Results: In total, 26 SP-MS patients with moderate–severe disability were included. Progression-free survival (PFS) at years 5 and 10 after aHSCT were, respectively, 42% and 30%. Out of 16 patients who worsened, only 6 patients (23% overall) maintained continuous disability accrual (CDA), whereas 10 patients stabilized following one single-step Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) worsening. CDA-free survival was 74% at 5–10 years. No relapses or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity were reported, thus no evidence of disease activity (NEDA)-3 corresponded to PFS. Annualized rate of brain atrophy (AR-BVL) normalized after 1 year in 55% of the cases analysed (12/22). Conclusion: BEAM-aHSCT halted CDA and normalized AR-BVL in most of the treated patients, inducing long-term remission of inflammatory activity at a median follow-up of 99 months (range 27–222). These data suggest that CDA might still be mainly driven by inflammation in a subgroup of SP-MS and could therefore be reversed by treatments. CDA should be analysed independently from any isolated disability worsening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presented the investigation of the effect of adding natural fiber kenaf fiber on the stress and deformation in below-knee socket prosthetic structures manufactured from composite laminated materials with various reinforcement fibers. This work included theoretical, experimental and numerical study, in theoretical part the weight of the patient on the remaining limb was analyzed mathematically using Matlab 2018 a program, the result of the pressure was 165 Kpa. As for experimental part, the artificial socket was manufactured from the second proposed composite materials with kenaf, testing the ground reaction force (GRF), as the results showed that the proportion of similarity between the uninjured leg and healthy is 96%. Numerical analysis part using the finite element method was adopted to estimate the Von Mises stresses and deformation behaviors for the below-knee prosthetic structures through ANSYS 2020 R2, The simulation using the mechanical properties of the relevant composite materials taken from previous published and the pressure generated from the mathematical equations was compared with the results using the pressure readings obtained from the experimental test F-Socket readings of a similar patient condition as input to the ANSYS program. The results of the composite material using kenaf showed that the highest value of Von-Mises stress is equal to (34.14 Mpa) for the experimental F-Socket test, while the value (48.9 MPa) was obtained from theoretical part, as the stress was reduced by the lamination with kenaf in the experimental F-Socket test (43.23%) and theoretically (10%), to reduces the deformation of the material and comfort of the patient during movement. Finally, the different between the results was calculated for the theoretical and experimental F-Socket analyzes were acceptable values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the determination of lead and pH in Setif soils. Soil samples from the town of Setif were taken from a total of 100 subsurface soils, systematically sampled (regular 1 × 1 km grid). The lead concentration was determined by atomic absorption and the average lead concentrations ranged from 24 to 384 mg kg−1. The distribution of the different concentrations of lead and iso-concentration was distributed on the map of the exchange site with Arc GIS software. Compared with their local soil background values, higher concentrations of Pb were observed to different extents. The distribution of Pb concentrations has been explained by urban traffic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence from international studies suggests that ward culture, staff attitudes, and knowledge are crucial to ensuring that hospitals adopt "reasonable adjustments" to guarantee equity of access to vulnerable patients. Among the major barriers to providing reasonable adjustments highlighted in the literature is the lack of effective systems to identify patients with disabilities and flag them in the system. Method: In November 2016, the Tuscany Regional Health System (TRHS) Government (Italy) set up a multidisciplinary working group, which used virtual collaboration methods. Results: A structured system for the early identification of patients with disabilities and their special needs, and consequent reasonable adjustments to be implemented at the hospital level, was developed. Conclusion: The project recommended two innovations: the development of a measure that grades the need of reasonable adjustments and produces a score; the possibility of entering the information for the computation of the score directly through the TRHS website. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni0.4Cd0.3Zn0.3Fe2O4 ferrites have been prepared through the use of sol-gel method at 900 °C and 1100 °C. Rietveld refinements of XRD patterns indicate that the prepared samples crystallize in the cubic spinel structure. Lattice constant and grain size are found to increase with sintering temperature. Magnetic measurements show that the maximum magnetization (Ms) rises, whereas both coercivity (Hc) and remanence (Mr) decrease when increasing the sintering temperature. Frequency and temperature dependence of electrical conductivity, electrical modulus, and electrical impedance have been studied using impedance spectroscopy technique. As the sintering temperature increases, the conductivity of the samples increases. The variation of imaginary part of modulus (M″) displays the presence of an electrical relaxation phenomenon and non-Debye nature. Nyquist representations have been analyzed using an electrical equivalent circuit. The obtained results reveal that the conduction mechanism of the samples is achieved basically of the grain boundary contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of structural, magnetic, critical, and magnetocaloric characterizations of La0.6Ca0.2Na0.2MnO3 perovskite have been reported. XRD analysis of the sample synthesized using sol-gel method shows good crystallization in the R 3 ¯ c rhombohedral structure. From M(T) curve, a second-order ferromagnetic-paramagnetic (FM-PM) phase transition appears at the Curie temperature (TC) around 275 K. Critical exponents (β, γ, and δ) have been evaluated using different techniques such as modified Arrott plots (MAP), Kouvel-Fisher (KF) method, and critical isotherm (CI). We found that the critical exponents of the prepared sample agree well with those of the mean-field model. We have also estimated the magnetic entropy change (−ΔSM) and relative cooling power (RCP) for the sample which obey power laws as −∆SM = a(μ0H)n and RCP = A(μ0H)N, respectively. ΔSM and RCP values were relatively higher, making the sample promising candidate for magnetic refrigeration technology. The estimated values of the magnetic ordering parameters (n and N) are used to confirm the reliability of the evaluated critical exponent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of its marginal position in the founding treaties, the social dimension of the European Communities was widely publicised from the very beginning. In the context of the Cold War, social policies - such as the free movement of workers, the promotion of vocational training and aid to the adaptation of fi red workers - were seen as useful instruments of legitimisation, as they contributed to spread a positive image of the Communities in the public opinion. This is why the top officials of the Ecsc and the Eec missed no chance to mention the European social legislation and its concrete applications. An attitude that was further amplified in the following years, and culminated in the rhetoric of the "European social model", by which the European Commission accompanied the deepened economic integration introduced in the 1980s and 1990s by the Single European Act and the Maastricht Treaty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]