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Abstract Background The minimal important difference (MID) is a useful tool to interpret changes in patients’ health-related quality of life. This study aims to estimate MIDs for interpreting within-patient change for both components of the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire [EQ-Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS) and utility index] and domains of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) for cancer patients. Methods Data were obtained from the Cancer 2015 dataset, a longitudinal cohort of Australian cancer patients. Anchor-based approaches were used to estimate MIDs for the EQ-5D-5L index-based utility index [Australia and the United States (US) tariff sets], EQ-VAS scores, and the EORTC QLQ-C30. Clinical [Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status] and patient-reported (items 29 and 30 of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and the EQ-VAS) anchors were assessed for appropriateness by their correlation strength. Clinical change groups (CCGs) were defined a priori for improvement and deterioration based on estimates used in previous literature. MIDs were estimated via linear regression and distribution-based methods. Results For the index-based utility scores in Australia, the anchor-defined MID estimates were 0.01 to 0.06 for improvement and − 0.04 to -0.03 for deterioration, with a weighted value of 0.03 for improvement and deterioration. The EQ-VAS MID estimate was 5 points for both improvement and deterioration. For the EORTC QLQ-C30, changes of at least 3.64 (improvement) and − 4.28 (deterioration) units on the physical functioning scale, 6.31 (improvement) and − 7.11 (deterioration) units on the role functioning scale, 4.65 (improvement) and − 3.41 (deterioration) units on the emotional functioning scale, and 5.41 (improvement) and − 5.56 (deterioration) units on the social functioning scale were estimated to be meaningful. Conclusion This study identified lower MIDs for the EQ-5D-5L utility index, EQ-VAS, and EORTC QLQ-C30 domain scores, than those reported previously. The use of a real-world cancer-specific panel dataset may reflect smaller MID estimates that are more applicable to cancer patients in the clinical practice, rather than using MIDs that have been estimated from clinical trials.

In terms of its composition, wine is considered the second liquid after blood. The average is wine contains 85% water, 12% alcohol, and the remaining 3% contains 1000 other elements such as residual sugar, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, calcium, iron, phosphorus, as well as polyphenols, sulfates, nitrates, lactic acid. Amino acids are almost everything the human body needs to function properly. The purpose of the study is to identify the composition of wine, vitamins and minerals in wine, as well as the effect of drinking wine on the human body, in order to present it to the general public present during trips to wineries and cellars. The scientific study included various discussions and reports on the benefits, risks and contraindications of drinking wine. This was done on the basis of scientific works of various scientists on the world map, encyclopedic information and Internet publications. The main results concern the beneficial and unfavorable effects of drinking wine on the health of the human body, which are summarized in the tables and conclusions of this article.

Biological invasions pose an increasing risk to nature, social security and the economy, being ranked amongst the top five threats to biodiversity. Managing alien and invasive species is a priority for the European Union, as outlined in the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Alien plant species are acknowledged to impact the economy and biodiversity; thus, analysing the distribution of such species provides valuable inputs for the management and decision-making processes. The database presented in the current study is the first consolidated checklist of alien plant species that are present in Romania, both of European Union concern and of national interest. This database complements a prior published distribution, based only on records from literature, bringing new information regarding the occurrence of alien plants in Romania, as revealed by a nationwide field survey. We consider this database a valuable instrument for managing biological invasions at both national and regional levels, as it can be utilised in further research studies and in drafting management and action plans, assisting stakeholders in making informed decisions and implementing management actions.We present the results of the first nationwide survey of alien plant species in Romania, conducted between 2019 and 2022, in the framework of a national project coordinated by the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests and the University of Bucharest. The present database complements and updates the database published by Sirbu et. al (2022), which included occurrence records published until 2019. The new database includes 98323 occurrence records for 396 alien plant species in 77 families, with most species belonging to the Asteraceae family. One alien plant species in our database, the black locust Robinia pseudoacacia L., had more than 10,000 occurrence records. The distribution database also includes information on newly-reported invasive alien plant species of European Union concern in Romania (i.e. the floating primrose-willow Ludwigia peploides (Kunth) P.H.Raven) and documents the presence of plants in 44 additional families compared to Sirbu et al. (2022). Each entry includes information on species taxonomy, location, year, person who recorded and identified the alien plant, geographical coordinates and taxon rank.

Abstract Background Mixed reality offers potential educational advantages in the delivery of clinical teaching. Holographic artefacts can be rendered within a shared learning environment using devices such as the Microsoft HoloLens 2. In addition to facilitating remote access to clinical events, mixed reality may provide a means of sharing mental models, including the vertical and horizontal integration of curricular elements at the bedside. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of delivering clinical tutorials using the Microsoft HoloLens 2 and the learning efficacy achieved. Methods Following receipt of institutional ethical approval, tutorials on preoperative anaesthetic history taking and upper airway examination were facilitated by a tutor who wore the HoloLens device. The tutor interacted face to face with a patient and two-way audio-visual interaction was facilitated using the HoloLens 2 and Microsoft Teams with groups of students who were located in a separate tutorial room. Holographic functions were employed by the tutor. The tutor completed the System Usability Scale, the tutor, technical facilitator, patients, and students provided quantitative and qualitative feedback, and three students participated in semi-structured feedback interviews. Students completed pre- and post-tutorial, and end-of-year examinations on the tutorial topics. Results Twelve patients and 78 students participated across 12 separate tutorials. Five students did not complete the examinations and were excluded from efficacy calculations. Student feedback contained 90 positive comments, including the technology’s ability to broadcast the tutor’s point-of-vision, and 62 negative comments, where students noted issues with the audio-visual quality, and concerns that the tutorial was not as beneficial as traditional in-person clinical tutorials. The technology and tutorial structure were viewed favourably by the tutor, facilitator and patients. Significant improvement was observed between students’ pre- and post-tutorial MCQ scores (mean 59.2% Vs 84.7%, p

Investigating the toxicity of naturally occurring or synthesized nanoparticles for various applications is absolutely necessary for environmental protection and safety use. The aim of these research was to investigated the phytotoxicity, cytogenotoxicity and antibacterial potential of the extracts with gold-silver bimetallic nanoparticles (Au-Ag NPs) obtained from green synthesis in Asplenium scolopendrium L. and Dryopteris filix-mas (L.) Schott spores extracts. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the Au-Ag NPs phytosynthesis based on extracts obtained from fern spores. UV-Vis spectroscopy analysis of the samples revealed the maximum absorbance, characteristic of samples with bimetallic nanoparticles, which varied depending on the Au:Ag ratio. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence and distribution of Au, Ag and other chemical elements. The presence of specific secondary metabolites in the extracts that helped in NPs biosynthesis stimulated growth processes. Good results were recorded for some Dryopteris filix-mas samples, correlated with a significantly increased mitotic index. Cell viability decreased significantly in three of the nanoformulations. Only extracts with Au-Ag NPs showed antimicrobial effect against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 and Escherichia coli ATCC 8739. The testing of the antibacterial potential of these extracts must be extended to other bacterial strains and other microorganisms, the search of new antimicrobial resources being an urgent necessity nowadays.

Abstract Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used in cancer patients, but their impact on treatment outcomes in multiple myeloma (MM) patients remains unclear. This study investigated the association of PPI use with survival and adverse effects in MM patients across three randomized-control trials initiating daratumumab, lenalidomide, or bortezomib combination treatments. Cox proportional hazard analysis and logistic regression were employed to assess the associations with treatment outcomes, while adjusting for age, sex, weight, MM international staging system stage, ECOG-performance status, comorbidity count, and presence of gastrointestinal disorders. Pooled data involving 1804 patients revealed that 557 (32%) used PPIs at baseline. PPI use was independently associated with worse overall survival (adjusted HR [95% CI] 1.32 [1.08–1.62], P = 0.007) and grade ≥ 3 adverse events (adjusted OR [95% CI] 1.39 [1.03–1.88], P = 0.030). However, the association with progression-free survival did not reach statistical significance (adjusted HR [95% CI] 1.14 [0.97–1.33], P = 0.112). Findings were consistent across trials and treatment arms. PPI use was identified as a negative prognostic factor in MM patients, potentially enhancing clinical decisions regarding its use. Further research is needed to fully comprehend the impacts and safety of PPI use in MM patients.

In search of new food-grade pH sensitive formulations, red beet extract rich in betacyanin was included in different inorganic matrices based on silica and aluminosilicate to improve the stability of the dye. By the direct method of encapsulation of the pigments in silica support, stabilizing agents such as inclusion complex forming β-cyclodextrin and ascorbic acid were added. The post loading system assumes the synthesis of porous silica and aluminosilicate powders and the adsorption of the beet extract by these supports. The unloaded carriers were structurally and texturally characterized (X-ray diffraction, FTIR, N2-physisorption). The presence of betanin, approved as a red food colorant, was evidenced by UV–Vis spectroscopy in all the hosts. Color properties were investigated as well as the pH generated color variations of the powders exposed to ammonia in the head-space of a sealed vessel. The obtained results could widen the field of applications of beet extract, the prepared ecological formulations could provide added value to edible products packaging.

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to estimate the impact of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) over time among individuals in the United Kingdom, adding to the evidence base that had focussed on severe COVID-19. Methods A bespoke online survey was administered to individuals who self-reported a positive COVID-19 test. An amended version of a validated generic HRQoL instrument (EQ-5D-5L) was used to measure HRQoL retrospectively at different timepoints over the course of an infection: pre-COVID-19, acute COVID-19, and long COVID. In addition, HRQoL post-COVID-19 was captured by the original EQ-5D-5L questionnaire. A mixed-effects model was used to estimate changes in HRQoL over time, adjusted for a range of variables correlated with HRQoL. Results The study recruited 406 participants: (i) 300 adults and 53 adolescents with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 who had not been hospitalised for COVID-19 during acute COVID-19, and (ii) 53 adults who had been hospitalised for COVID-19 in the acute phase and who had been recruited for validation purposes. Data were collected between January and April 2022. Among participants included in the base-case analysis, EQ-5D-5L utility scores were lower during both acute COVID-19 (β=-0.080, p = 0.001) and long COVID (β=-0.072, p

To assess the frequency of multiple thrombophilia-associated mutations and polymorphisms in a selected population of high-risk pregnancies.

One of the factors that threatens the sustainability of rural areas is the hegemonic agroindustrial model with obvious environmental and social impacts which dramatically limits rural life. The study draws attention to the opportunities offered by alternative agri-food systems based on agroecology and food sovereignty as cultural heritage to support sustainable local development. The results of the study demonstrate how the recovery and promotion of traditional ecological knowledge can help increase the capacity of socio-ecological systems to cope with shocks and disruptions and maintain long-term resilience. At the same time, agro-ecological practises allow collective identities to emerge around characteristics of rural space, strengthening local life, focusing on the coevolution of the society-ecosystem of local identity. The case study analyzed in Romania counties shows that rural areas play a critical role in economic and social cohesion, in the resilience of regions and in the contribution of countless services in various local ecosystems, including food production, to their consolidation socio-economic prosperity, the ability to innovate, to achieve a sustainable and inclusive social economy. The types of policies promoted by Romania conceive agro-ecological practices as an intangible collective heritage with a significant potential for transformation towards local sustainability.

Companies with securities traded on a regulated market prepare financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and must take into account the European Single Electronic Format (ESEF) reporting requirement. was postponed by one year in 2021, coming into force for the reporting period beginning on or after the 1st of January 2021. Therefore, according to the European regulatory framework, sole proprietorships that have securities traded on a regulated market must prepare in full the annual financial statements in the Extensible Hypertext Markup Language (xHTML) format. This article aims to show what ESEF reporting is and the eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL), which are the benefits of digital business reporting and the opportunities that arise from using XBRL.

Approaching this topic appears as a necessity at a time when the loss of simple meanings is felt more and more acutely, hence the numerous confusions and sterile discussions about the archaic, mythical, wild, prelogical, unhistorical, etc. These discussions automatically place archaic thinking in an outdated spiritual phase of the human gender, which stirs a kind smile, at its best. Constantly subjected to an empirical-neutral approach and strictly horizontal observation, archaic thought is regarded as a primitive form of science and religion, a kind of childhood of thought that has not yet reached the maturity of knowledge and understanding.

This study comprehensively explores the intricate hydrodynamic and geomorphological processes that affect the Sulina Channel and bar area. It employs advanced hydrodynamic, wave, and sediment transport models to simulate the influence of marine currents, waves, and shipping traffic on sediment transport and deposition patterns, providing valuable insights for maintaining navigable conditions in the Sulina Channel. It is shown that sediment deposition is highly dynamic, particularly in the Sulina bar area, where rapid sediment recolonization occurs within one to two months after dredging. The simulation indicates that vessels with drafts of 11.5 m cause notable erosion. In comparison, drafts of 7 m have a minimal impact on sediment transport, emphasizing the importance of managing vessel drafts to mitigate sediment disturbances. This research highlights and quantifies the siltation phenomenon from the Black Sea to the mouth of the Sulina Channel, effectively addressing the challenges posed by natural and anthropogenic factors to ensure the Channel’s sustainability and operational efficiency.

For more than 40 years, autologous platelet concentrates have been used in clinical medicine. Since the first formula used, namely platelet-rich plasma (PRP), other platelet concentrates have been experimented with, including platelet-rich fibrin and concentrated growth factor. Platelet concentrates have three standard characteristics: they act as scaffolds, they serve as a source of growth factors and cytokines, and they contain live cells. PRP has become extensively used in regenerative medicine for the successful treatment of a variety of clinical (non-)dermatological conditions like alopecies, acne scars, skin burns, skin ulcers, muscle, cartilage, and bone repair, and as an adjuvant in post-surgery wound healing, with obvious benefits in terms of functionality and aesthetic recovery of affected tissues/organs. These indications were well documented, and a large amount of evidence has already been published supporting the efficacy of this method. The primordial principle behind minimally invasive PRP treatments is the usage of the patient’s own platelets. The benefits of the autologous transplantation of thrombocytes are significant, representing a fast and economic method that requires only basic equipment and training, and it is biocompatible, thus being a low risk for the patient (infection and immunological reactions can be virtually disregarded). Usually, the structural benefits of applying PRP are attributed to fibroblasts only, as they are considered the most numerous cell population within the interstitium. However, this apparent simplistic explanation is still eluding those different types of interstitial cells (distinct from fibroblasts) that are residing within stromal tissue, e.g., telocytes (TCs). Moreover, dermal TCs have an already documented potential in angiogenesis (extra-cutaneous, but also within skin), and their implication in skin recovery in a few dermatological conditions was attested and described ultrastructurally and immunophenotypically. Interestingly, PRP biochemically consists of a series of growth factors, cytokines, and other molecules, to which TCs have also proven to have a positive expression. Thus, it is attractive to hypothesize and to document any tissular collaboration between cutaneous administered PRP and local dermal TCs in skin recovery/repair/regeneration. Therefore, TCs could be perceived as the missing link necessary to provide a solid explanation of the good results achieved by administering PRP in skin-repairing processes.

Cucumis metuliferus E. Meyer ex Naudin belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. It is an annual vegetable species known as horned melon or kiwano. Fruits are recommended for the daily diet because they provide vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals to alleviate malnutrition and improve human health. In this study, kiwano was cultivated in the climatic conditions of Southwestern Romania, which is characterized by warm summers, lower precipitation, and high temperatures, ensuring optimal conditions for growth and development. The fruits were harvested at three stages of consumption: immature stage (green), intermediate stage (white–yellow) or the mature stage (yellow–orange). They were also subjected to analysis on the productive yield and physical–chemical properties. The results showed that the number of fruits ranged from 13.9 to 15.3 fruits/plant, and their average weight had values from 204 g to 234 g, depending on the harvest stage. The results obtained for bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity indicated significant differences (p ≤ 0.05), depending on the harvesting stage. The highest values for the antioxidant capacity (140.90 μM TE/100g DPPH) and total polyphenols (48.78 TPC mg/100 g) were recorded in the immature fruit phase, as well as for the carbohydrate content (3.56%), total protein (1.98%), ascorbic acid (4.3 mg/100 g f.w.), and carotene (0.98 mg/100 g) in the mature fruit phase. These results may stimulate interest in the introduction of this species as a niche crop and for consumption as a source of natural antioxidants for the prevention of diseases due to oxidative stress.

This article contends that contemporary transnational dynamics have given rise to novel political subjects and territories for political engagement. By looking at how parties as organizational actors operate abroad, this study reworks extant classificatory attempts and proposes an amended typology in which the salient elements of variation are the origin of the party abroad and the degree of formalization. These two dimensions produce a matrix delineating four distinct types of party organization: branch-abroad, organization-abroad in franchising, committee-abroad, and semi-political structures. Conceptually, the typology elucidates the multifaceted nature of the structural approaches employed by home parties in their endeavors to establish connections with communities abroad. Empirically, this contribution enhances the comparability between organizational configurations abroad and extant research on party structures at the national level.

This thematic issue covers the participation and representation of migrants in contemporary politics. It focuses on two interconnected analytical dimensions: countries of residence and countries of origin, as arenas of political engagement and the supply and demand sides of political representation. The articles in the thematic issue advance the existing knowledge in migration studies and party politics both theoretically and empirically. They do so by proposing innovative analytical frameworks to assess the extent of participation and representation and by bringing evidence that fosters a better understanding of the intricate relationship between migration and politics.