Thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications in idiopathic erythrocytosis

We report clinical features of a large cohort of patients with IE compared to a cohort of patients with PV, focusing on the thrombotic and hemorrhagic risk

Beyond Li-ion batteries: novel concepts and designs

Efforts are being globally spent today to boost stored energy produced by renewable sources and to encourage a sustainable electric transportation. High-energy conversion systems like batteries can satisfy these demands in an efficient way. Although Li-ion batteries (LIBs) are the best batteries on the market in terms of energy content, a drastic change is desirable to increase both energy and power performance. In this context, Li/O2 is the next generation system due to the theoretical 10-fold higher specific energy than commercial LIBs (3500 vs. 250 Wh kg-1). The aim of this PhD thesis is the development of novel concepts and cell designs with the purpose to increase the performance of the aprotic Li and Li/O2 batteries. Specifically, a novel design of electrolyte (i.e. solvent-in-salt “SIS” solutions, where the salt-to-solvent ratio is higher than 1), and an innovative concept of semi-solid lithium redox flow air (O2) battery (SLRFAB) technology, based on the use of a O2-saturated semi-solid catholyte, have been proposed

A Novel Method and Mechanism for Micro-Sphere Singularization

The paper presents an innovative mechanism for the singularization of micro-spheres, which can be effectively employed in a diverse range of robotized applications in micro-electronics and micro-mechanics. Many miniaturized devices are currently being developed and consist of different micro-components to be precisely assembled. The demanding product and process requirements can be met by automating the assembly phases, which include sorting and feeding the micro-components. Therefore, accurate, high-throughput, and modular mechanisms and tools able to supply a number of micro-components, or even a single element for the subsequent operations, play a significant role. In this context, this work focused on the development of a novel strategy for separating a single component from an unstructured stock of identical parts, in particular of micro-spheres with diameters of 0.2–1 mm. Suitable expedients were considered to overcome the adhesive effects that can become significant at the micro-scale due to the very small size and low mass of the micro-spheres. The paper describes the operating principle and the actuation strategies of the mechanism. The design and the development of a prototype for singularizing micro-spheres with a diameter of 0.6 mm are thoroughly discussed. Finally, the results of experimental singularization tests demonstrate the method effectiveness and the mechanism performance

A Vacuum manipulation device and a method for manipulating a components by means of a vacuum

A vacuum manipulation device (1 ) comprising a tube (2) in communication with a vacuum generating system for gripping a component by suction at a gripper nozzle (3) of the tube itself and a mechanical release system (8) inserted at least partially inside the tube (2). The mechanical release system (8) is movable between a release position, in which a release portion thereof projects externally from the gripper nozzle (3), and a gripping position, in which the release portion (10a) returns into the tube (2). The mechanical release system (8) comprises a transverse extension (9) made up of a perforated disk and a needle (10) solidly joined to the perforated disk and having a diameter that is smaller than the internal diameter of the tube (2). The needle (10) is inserted at least partially inside the tube (2) and comprises the release portion

Can A Low Cost Sensing System Be Exploited For High Precision Machining

Abstract The aim of the present study is the assessment of the integration of a low cost optical measurement device into a high-precision machine tool for micro manufacturing applications. The measurement system can be effectively integrated into the working volume of different types of machines allowing both tool and workpiece measurements and avoiding its disassembly from the machine stage for off-line measurements and, consequently, reference losses. The fast measurements of tool and workpiece during the machining contribute to increase the accuracy and reduce the overall machining-measurement iterations. The assessment is achieved by a test case where a low cost USB microscope is applied to a micro-EDM machine. The low cost device has been applied for tool electrode measurements and tool wear evaluation after an accuracy enhanced calibration procedure and high performance image processing algorithms, which effectively reduce the lack of the hardware performance. The measurement performance gives a feedback on the deviations of the machined features from nominal geometry and allows their compensations by an adequate machining strategy

Corticosteroidi per via Intravitreale per il Trattamento Dell'edema Maculare: Revisione e Valutazione Della Qualità Dell'evidenza:

Intravitreal corticosteroids for the treatment of macular edema: review and assessment of quality of the evidenceIntroductionTreatment options for macular edema include intravitreal corticosteroids. Traditionally, an injectable suspension of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) had been employed off-label; in recent years, authorities have approved sustained-release drug delivery systems (DDSs) for corticosteroids. This review aims to compare the quality of the evidence on efficacy and safety of three different formulations of intravitreal corticosteroids: the dexamethasone (DEX) implant, the fluocinolone acetonide (FA) implant, and the preservative-free injectable suspensions of TA, in the management of two retinal pathologies: diabetic macular edema (DME) and macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO).MethodsA search of clinical trials on MEDLINE from 01/01/2000 to 12/16/2015 was performed. Studies were included in the analysis if they met the following criteria: i) related to at least one of the preparations of interest in patients with DME or macular edema secondary to RVO; ii) included a control group treated with placebo, observation, sham procedures or conventional treatments; and iii) included visual acuity, retinal thickness and/or safety parameters as outcomes. Results were summarized in a narrative manner.ResultsTwenty-five publications from 19 RCTs were included. We observed increased attention of researchers towards TA compared to DEX and FA; however, studies for TA are less robust. Scientific publications related to DEX and FA implants are of higher quality, especially in terms of randomization and masking procedures.DiscussionAlthough trials on TA are numerous, evidence on DEX and FA implants is more robust. Since their introduction, these relatively new DDSs have been included in the main guidelines for the management of macular edema

Key factors in the implementation of energy policies in Italy

Actualmente, la implementación de medidas de eficiencia energética (EE) y energías renovables (ER) se encuentra en la agenda política de numerosos países; sin embargo, el avance concreto y la implementación efectiva de dichas estrategias es aún muy dispar. Si bien existen países donde dichas tecnologías han recalado efectivamente en sus regímenes socio-técnicos; una gran mayoría aún no comenzó a enfrentar dicha transición de manera sistémica y, por consiguiente, deberán afrontar numerosos desafíos. En tal sentido, este trabajo presenta un análisis de la transición energética que se está desarrollando de forma sostenida en el sector residencial italiano desde mediados de la década del 2000 (2006- 2016) a los efectos de identificar, sistematizar y extraer factores clave del caso de estudio. A partir de éstos es posible discutir acerca de la implementación de políticas energéticas y generar insumos para otros casos de estudio que pretendan impulsar medidas estatales de mejoramiento energético.Currently, the implementation of energy efficiency strategies (EES) and renewable energy sources (RES) is inside of the political agenda of many countries. However, the concrete progress in the effective implementation of these policies is still very different. On the one hand, there are specific cases of countries where the aforementioned technologies have been inserted effectively into their socio-technical regimes and the transition is ongoing. On the other hand, the vast majority of countries has not yet begun to face this process and, therefore, will have to face challenges and difficulties. In this regard, this paper presents an analysis of the energy transition that is developing steadily in the Italian residential sector from the mid-2000s (2006-2016). This analysis made it possible to identify, systematize and extract key factors from the case study; from which it is possible to discuss and generate inputs for other cases of study that intend to implement state policies for energy improvementInstituto de Investigaciones y Políticas del Ambiente Construid

Time evolution of restless legs syndrome in haemodialysis patients

Abstract Background Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is characterized by an urge to move the extremities, accompanied by paraesthesiae, in the evening and at night. Uraemic RLS, a type of secondary RLS, occurs commonly in chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. Progression of uraemic RLS over time is unclear. Therefore we investigated the prevalence, progression over time, risk factors and impact on survival of uraemic RLS in a cohort of dialysis patients. Methods We reviewed at the 7-year follow-up a cohort of haemodialysis (HD) patients we had previously investigated for RLS, through interviews, validated questionnaires and analysis of demographic and clinical data. Results At the 7-year follow-up, RLS was present in 16% of patients, with a persistence rate of 33%. A correlation was obtained between RLS and older age, diabetes, low albumin and low body mass index. RLS was associated with reduced overall survival (median survival of 3.3 versus 3.7 years), particularly with the continuous form of RLS (1.61 years). There was a higher incidence of myocardial infarction and peripheral vascular disease, although not reaching statistical significance. RLS patients had absolute higher scores in all quality of life domains. A large majority of study patients (96%) reported being symptom-free within a few days or weeks following kidney transplantation. Conclusions The development of RLS, especially the continuous form, in patients undergoing HD has important consequences associated with decreased survival. Our results indicated an association between uraemic RLS and ageing, diabetes and malnutrition. Considerable efforts should be focused on the treatment of RLS, since it significantly and persistently impacts the quality of life of HD patients. Kidney transplantation could represent an effective treatment option for that RLS impacts on dialysis patients' quality of life, thus confirming the secondary nature of RLS in most HD patients

Key factors in the implementation of energy policies in Italy

Actualmente, la implementación de medidas de eficiencia energética (EE) y energías renovables (ER) se encuentra en la agenda política de numerosos países; sin embargo, el avance concreto y la implementación efectiva de dichas estrategias es aún muy dispar. Si bien existen países donde dichas tecnologías han recalado efectivamente en sus regímenes socio-técnicos; una gran mayoría aún no comenzó a enfrentar dicha transición de manera sistémica y, por consiguiente, deberán afrontar numerosos desafíos. En tal sentido, este trabajo presenta un análisis de la transición energética que se está desarrollando de forma sostenida en el sector residencial italiano desde mediados de la década del 2000 (2006- 2016) a los efectos de identificar, sistematizar y extraer factores clave del caso de estudio. A partir de éstos es posible discutir acerca de la implementación de políticas energéticas y generar insumos para otros casos de estudio que pretendan impulsar medidas estatales de mejoramiento energético.Currently, the implementation of energy efficiency strategies (EES) and renewable energy sources (RES) is inside of the political agenda of many countries. However, the concrete progress in the effective implementation of these policies is still very different. On the one hand, there are specific cases of countries where the aforementioned technologies have been inserted effectively into their socio-technical regimes and the transition is ongoing. On the other hand, the vast majority of countries has not yet begun to face this process and, therefore, will have to face challenges and difficulties. In this regard, this paper presents an analysis of the energy transition that is developing steadily in the Italian residential sector from the mid-2000s (2006-2016). This analysis made it possible to identify, systematize and extract key factors from the case study; from which it is possible to discuss and generate inputs for other cases of study that intend to implement state policies for energy improvement.Fil: Chevez, Pedro Joaquín. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas. Centro Cientifico Tecnologico Conicet - la Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones y Politicas del Ambiente Construido. - Universidad Nacional de la Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones y Politicas del Ambiente Construido.; ArgentinaFil: Ruggeri, Emilia. Universidad Nacional de Quilmes. Departamento de Ciencias Sociales. Instituto de Estudios Sociales de la Ciencia y la Tecnología; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; ArgentinaFil: Martini, Irene. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas. Centro Cientifico Tecnologico Conicet - la Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones y Politicas del Ambiente Construido. - Universidad Nacional de la Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones y Politicas del Ambiente Construido.; ArgentinaFil: Discoli, Carlos Alberto. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas. Centro Cientifico Tecnologico Conicet - la Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones y Politicas del Ambiente Construido. - Universidad Nacional de la Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones y Politicas del Ambiente Construido.; Argentin

Health technology assessment of pathogen reduction technologies applied to plasma for clinical use

Although existing clinical evidence shows that the transfusion of blood components is becoming increasingly safe, the risk of transmission of known and unknown pathogens, new pathogens or re-emerging pathogens still persists. Pathogen reduction technologies may offer a new approach to increase blood safety. The study is the output of collaboration between the Italian National Blood Centre and the Post-Graduate School of Health Economics and Management, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy. A large, multidisciplinary team was created and divided into six groups, each of which addressed one or more HTA domains.Plasma treated with amotosalen + UV light, riboflavin + UV light, methylene blue or a solvent/detergent process was compared to fresh-frozen plasma with regards to current use, technical features, effectiveness, safety, economic and organisational impact, and ethical, social and legal implications. The available evidence is not sufficient to state which of the techniques compared is superior in terms of efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness. Evidence on efficacy is only available for the solvent/detergent method, which proved to be non-inferior to untreated fresh-frozen plasma in the treatment of a wide range of congenital and acquired bleeding disorders. With regards to safety, the solvent/detergent technique apparently has the most favourable risk-benefit profile. Further research is needed to provide a comprehensive overview of the cost-effectiveness profile of the different pathogen-reduction techniques. The wide heterogeneity of results and the lack of comparative evidence are reasons why more comparative studies need to be performed