The study describes the epidemiology and risk factors for nosocomial infections in adult patients who underwent continuous-flow LVAD implantation between January 2010 and December 2017 in Turin, Italy. It found that 50% of patients experienced at least one infection, with a higher prevalence of Gram-negative bacilli, including multidrug-resistant strains. Length of ICU stay was a significant risk factor for infection. The study suggests that nosocomial infection rates in LVAD patients are associated with the length of ICU admission, and the infections are mainly due to Gram-negative bacilli, with a high rate of multidrug-resistant strains.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led landlords on Airbnb to shift from short-term tourist rentals to long-term rentals for residents, significantly impacting the company's revenue. Despite a 30% revenue drop in 2020, Airbnb went public and is optimistic about a tourist rebound in 2021. The pandemic has accelerated changes in rental markets, with cities like Budapest, Rome, and Amsterdam seeing declines in Airbnb listings. The rise of Airbnb has been linked to increased rent prices, prompting cities like Paris and New York to introduce regulations. The International Union of Tenants and European Parliament members advocate using EU recovery funds for affordable housing, highlighting the negative impact of short-term rentals on housing markets.

French police have been accused of deporting Roma people at the Belgian border near Lille as a means to artificially inflate deportation figures. This practice, which has reportedly been ongoing for a decade, involves police raids on Roma campsites, document confiscation, and staged deportations that result in the Roma immediately returning to France. Activist and lawyer Dominique Plancke claims these actions hinder the Roma's integration and ability to find employment in France. The police have responded, stating that the departures are voluntary and re-entry into France in violation of an obligation to leave constitutes an offense.

EU leaders will meet to address the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on accelerating vaccination efforts and discussing the potential implementation of vaccination certificates to boost tourism and trade. Malta's health minister, Christopher Fearne, emphasizes the benefits of joint procurement and price transparency within the EU. The European Medicines Agency is expected to approve the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine soon, amid criticism of the EU's approval process. The concept of vaccination certificates is being considered, but further discussions are needed to finalize the standards.

The Falkland Islands face economic challenges after being excluded from the UK-EU trade deal, potentially leading to tariffs on exports to the EU. The local economy, heavily reliant on fish exports to Europe, seeks to maintain trade benefits. The exclusion has been welcomed by Argentina, which has long claimed the islands. Diplomatic efforts by Argentina, including meetings with European leaders, have increased the possibility of renewed discussions over the islands' sovereignty. The situation remains complex, with potential future negotiations involving Mercosur and the EU, while the UK maintains its strategic interest in the region.

The EU is proposing the world's first climate law to ensure an irreversible transition to climate neutrality by 2050, with a target of a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The European Parliament advocates for a more ambitious 60% reduction, while some governments, like Poland, express economic concerns. The law will be discussed in 'trialogue' talks among EU institutions. EU Commission Vice-President Timmermans believes emissions cuts and economic growth can coexist. Climate activist Greta Thunberg criticizes the EU's goals as insufficient to meet the Paris climate target.

Italy faces a controversial constitutional referendum to reduce the number of parliamentarians, a move supported by the 5 Star Movement to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Critics argue it may lead to less representation, especially for minorities. The reform, already approved by Parliament, was a condition for the coalition government between the 5 Star Movement and the Democratic Party. The debate highlights Italy's ongoing political crisis and the need for broader electoral and parliamentary reforms.

Thousands of schools across Europe, including the European School in Brussels, have reopened after months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The school, which serves children of EU institution workers, faces challenges such as overcrowding and adherence to Belgian health regulations. Teachers and parents express concerns about maintaining social distancing and managing student interactions. Some students, like those returning from Spain, must quarantine before attending. Despite these challenges, the reopening marks a step towards normalcy for students.

The European Union is grappling with its role in Belarus amid escalating protests. The EU has condemned the electoral fraud and violent repression, calling for new transparent elections and dialogue, but faces limited influence compared to Russia. Experts suggest the EU's support for demonstrators and civil society is crucial despite the challenges. EU leaders are considering targeted sanctions, while the OSCE is recommended for election supervision. The situation is complicated by the Kremlin's support for Lukashenko and the US's apparent disengagement.

A EU-UN conference aims to raise funds for Syria and neighboring countries hosting Syrian refugees, with the EU considering using this opportunity to influence political reforms and combat impunity in Syria. German MEP Hannah Neumann suggests leveraging the pandemic's impact on Syria to shape the situation favorably. The EU, a major donor, imposes sanctions on Bashar al-Assad’s regime, which some argue should be suspended due to their severe impact on civilians. Professor David Crane advocates for alternative measures, such as pressuring Russia, to end the conflict.

The European Commission has initiated a new consultation with social partners to ensure all workers in the EU earn a minimum wage, deemed essential for economic recovery post-pandemic. Monthly minimum wages vary across the EU, with Bulgaria having the lowest and Luxembourg the highest. The consultation aims to set conditions for member states to establish their own minimum wages, not a uniform European wage. The European Trade Union Confederation backs the proposal, emphasizing its potential to boost demand. Business associations have not commented. The consultation concludes on September 4, following Spain's acceleration of guaranteed minimum income and recent minimum wage increases in several EU countries. Eurofound's report indicates that minimum wage increases alone may not suffice for workers to make ends meet, suggesting that purchasing power is more critical.

The EU Commission is set to unveil a new budget and recovery fund to help European countries recover from the pandemic, with a proposal expected from Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen. The plan has sparked a division between a Franco-German proposal, which includes grants, loans, and guarantees, and an alternative from the 'Frugal Four'—Austria, Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands—who oppose debt-pooling and long-term budget increases. Key figures such as Philippe Lamberts, Robert Roos, Manfred Weber, Magdalena Andersson, and Iraxte Garcia Perez express differing views on the necessity and conditions of the recovery fund. The debate also touches on the EU's commitment to green goals and the potential impact on the internal market and the euro.

David Sassoli, President of the European Parliament, in an interview with Euronews, emphasized that the controversies facing the European Parliament are normal in a functioning democracy. He discussed the European Commission's delayed mandate, the rise of nationalism, European values, Brexit, immigration, NATO, and the EU's relationship with Turkey. Sassoli expressed optimism about the European project and the importance of European values in combating nationalism and supporting democracy. He also touched on the EU's role in immigration policy and the need for a common European defense policy. The interview highlighted the EU's democratic processes and the challenges it faces from within and outside its borders.

Ursula von der Leyen's appointment as European Commission president may be delayed due to the rejection of three designated commissioners by the European Parliament. The rejection of candidates from Romania, Hungary, and France has complicated the process, with Hungary proposing a new candidate and Romania facing further delays due to government collapse. The European Parliament's assertive stance reflects its demand for greater influence in the appointment process. Von der Leyen must now secure new candidates who can pass the vetting process, with time running out for her team to be approved.

Paolo Gentiloni is set to become the new European Commissioner for Economic Affairs, tasked with balancing austerity measures and debt flexibility among EU member states. His nomination has sparked discussions on revising EU fiscal rules, though he may face challenges from senior commissioner Vladis Dombrovskis. Gentiloni's conciliatory approach has received mixed reactions, with some MEPs finding his answers vague. His role will also involve designing economic policies to address climate change and introducing a European unemployment benefit scheme.

Following the European elections, Denmark's Social Democrats succeeded by adopting a right-leaning migrant policy and a left-leaning environmental stance. New MEPs, including Pietro Bartolo, visited Brussels for the first time. The Conservative Party's leadership race commenced as Theresa May stepped down, with Brexit remaining a challenge. Adrian Vazquez Lazara awaits a seat in the European Parliament, pending Brexit. The International Labour Organisation will discuss the Future of Work in Geneva, while Nicola Sturgeon will talk about Scotland's EU ties post-Brexit in Brussels. Zuzana Caputova is set to become Slovakia's President.

The European Commission has initiated an infringement procedure against Italy due to its increasing public debt, which is the second highest in Europe after Greece. Pierre Moscovici, the European Commissioner, has stated that he is open to new data that could change the analysis. The decision may worsen relations between Brussels and Rome, with Italian MEP Angelo Ciocca from the League criticizing the Commission's approach. Italy must make budget cuts of around €3-4 billion to avoid sanctions, and the EU countries' representatives have two weeks to decide on endorsing the Commission's recommendation. Economist Cinzia Alcidi notes Italy's current isolation within the EU Council, which could make forming alliances to avoid punishment more challenging.

Cecilia Malmstrom, the outgoing European Commissioner for Trade, emphasized the need for the EU and the US to find a negotiated solution to their trade tensions, rather than imposing tariffs. She discussed the EU's stance on China, the role of trade deals in combating climate change and populism, and the importance of trade in general. Malmstrom also highlighted the EU's commitment to making trade greener and the need for China to adhere to international rules. With the upcoming European parliamentary elections, she acknowledged the potential rise of far-right MEPs but stressed the importance of voting. Malmstrom announced her departure from politics and called for increased female representation in European leadership.

Euronews correspondents Elena Cavallone and Jack Parrock report from L'Aquila, Italy, on the ongoing reconstruction following the devastating earthquake ten years prior. Funded largely by the EU, the rebuilding efforts have faced criticism over fund use and allegations of corruption. Despite this, local resident Marcella Del Vecchio expresses her intention to vote in the upcoming EU elections as a gesture of thanks for the EU's support. Another local, Andrea Mancini, shares his renewed sense of belonging and hopes for the town's future.

Anuna de Wever, a 17-year-old Belgian high school student, has become a prominent figure in the national youth movement against climate change. Leading protests for nine consecutive weeks, she emphasizes the urgency of governmental action over individual efforts. Despite meeting with politicians like French President Emmanuel Macron, she remains unimpressed by their responses. Supported by her family, Anuna continues her activism, highlighting the significant role of women in the movement and expressing her determination to influence political leaders, even though she cannot vote in the upcoming European elections.

In The Hague, a church protected an Armenian family from deportation by holding a continuous mass for three months, exploiting a Dutch law that prevents police from entering during religious services. The Tamrazyan family, who fled Armenia due to political persecution, had their asylum request denied after five years in the Netherlands. Under public pressure, the Dutch government granted asylum to the family and 700 other cases. The event highlighted significant community solidarity and the church's commitment to humanitarian values.

Serbia welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin during his visit to Belgrade, where he signed agreements on military and energy cooperation. Putin criticized Western destabilization in the Balkans, while Serbia aims to join the EU by 2025. Serbia's reliance on Russian gas is a point of leverage for Moscow. Jelena Milic of the Centre for Euro-Atlantic Studies suggests Serbia should balance its energy dependency with closer EU ties. Serbia must resolve its dispute with Kosovo to progress with EU accession. Public sentiment in Serbia shows strong support for Russia, particularly over the Kosovo crisis. Protests against Serbian President Vucic's alleged repression of media and political violence occurred just before Putin's visit, amidst rumors of new elections.

In the Netherlands, carpenter Johan Huibers built a replica of Noah's Ark inspired by a biblical vision of a great flood. Huibers believes global warming is a natural process, not significantly influenced by human activity. Contrarily, scientific studies, including those by the European Commission and the University of Exeter, predict increased flooding in Europe due to global warming, emphasizing the need for urban infrastructure adaptation. Experts highlight the potential for severe climate impacts, including rising sea levels and extreme weather patterns.

HIV-positive women in Eastern Ukraine face severe discrimination and lack of medical treatment, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. Yelena, an HIV-positive woman from Luhansk, moved to Kiev for treatment, leaving her family behind. The conflict has increased HIV incidence, with women more exposed to sexual violence and prostitution. The NGO 'Positive Women,' in partnership with the United Nations Development Program, provides support and advocates for a tolerant attitude towards HIV-positive individuals.

The European Commission is expected to present a negative opinion on Italy's draft budget, which proposes a deficit of 2.4%, exceeding the Commission's recommendations. A report on Italian debt is also anticipated, potentially leading to a procedure against Italy for excessive debt. EU governments will assess the report, with Italy appearing isolated on the issue. The procedure could require Italy to implement measures to reduce debt, with possible fines for non-compliance. Meanwhile, the Eurogroup has endorsed a Franco-German proposal for a eurozone budget aimed at strengthening the currency union, which could put additional pressure on Italy to comply with EU fiscal rules.

In the village of Novhorodske, Eastern Ukraine, known locally as New York, life persists amidst the conflict with the Russia-backed separatists. Oksana Lenko, with a grant from the UNDP, opened a bakery serving as a symbol of normality. The war has led to job losses, damaged infrastructure, and increased pressure on social systems. The European Investment Bank's Ukraine Early Recovery Programme aims to improve living conditions and support democracy. The Myrnohrad city hospital, now equipped with a new X-ray machine, provides essential medical care. As Ukraine approaches presidential elections, the EU monitors potential changes that could affect the country's direction, with concerns over the rise of populist and pro-Russia forces.

A no-deal Brexit could lead to the influx of counterfeit Italian products in the UK, such as fake prosecco, due to the loss of EU regulations that protect geographical indications. This could significantly impact the Italian agro-food sector, which heavily relies on the UK market. Confagricoltura, an Italian agricultural organization, warns that the authenticity of products like Italian mozzarella could be compromised, leading to consumer confusion and potential economic losses for genuine Italian producers.

Airbnb is revising its terms and conditions to comply with EU consumer regulations, committing to present total booking prices including extra fees and clearly inform consumers about additional charges. This move follows a meeting with EU Commissioner Vera Jourova. Airbnb, founded in San Francisco, has faced criticism for contributing to housing shortages in European cities but maintains it is an online service provider. The European Commission notes that Facebook and Twitter have yet to fully address similar regulatory issues.

The European Commission has dismissed Italy's threat to withhold EU budget contributions unless a solution is found for migrants stranded on the Diciotti boat in Catania. European Commission spokesperson Alexander Winterstein emphasized the importance of constructive cooperation among member states. Despite Italy's frontline role in the refugee crisis, migrant numbers have significantly decreased this year. Maltese MEP Alfred Sant criticized the lack of political will to implement effective solutions. Belgium's immigration minister stated that his country would not accept any of the stranded migrants.

Demonstrators in Brussels called for an end to the ivory trade, highlighting a study showing illegal sales in the EU despite a ban. The study, sponsored by a campaign group, found that a significant portion of ivory pieces sold in the EU were obtained after 1947 without proper certification. Campaigners, including Bert Wander from Avaaz, urged for closing legal loopholes and banning the ivory trade to protect elephants. The European Commission is focusing on poaching and ivory trafficking as part of a wildlife action plan, while the European Parliament recently called for a complete ban on domestic ivory trading.

Italy's 5 Star Movement and The League have proposed a draft coalition agreement that includes provisions to leave the eurozone via referendum, rewrite EU treaties, and alter fiscal policies. These proposals have caused concern among Europhiles and could disrupt the European project. The draft also suggests reconsidering Italy's EU budget contribution and requesting the European Central Bank to freeze €250bn of Italian debt. The coalition's plans for deficit spending and tax reforms could lead to significant economic challenges. EU officials have urged Italy to manage its debt and adhere to Stability Pact rules while expressing cautious optimism about the country's future commitments.

Asia Argento, an Italian actress and director, discusses her role in the #MeToo movement and her experiences with sexual harassment by Harvey Weinstein. She emphasizes the widespread nature of sexual harassment beyond the entertainment industry and criticizes the patriarchal culture in Italy, symbolized by figures like Silvio Berlusconi. Argento's activism is portrayed as empowering and significant in the fight against gender injustice.