Search

The present study aims to assess the sustainability of bioenergy potential from agriculture in the European Union in the period 2012–2021, with a particular focus on material flow and emissions management, bioenergy and recycling impacts, while assessing the potential of bioenergy from agriculture and analyzing the degree of self-sufficiency and import dependency in the biomass economy. While biomass has significant potential in the EU energy transition, its use is accompanied by challenges related to sustainability, carbon neutrality, efficiency and economic viability. Using a quantitative approach based on official statistical data, this research tracked the evolution of biomass imports, exports, domestic extraction and consumption, providing a comprehensive picture of the stability and adaptability of the biomass economy in the European Union. The results indicate a steady increase in domestic extraction and a stability in consumption, reflecting a high capacity of the European Union to manage biomass resources; thus, the degree of self-sufficiency has been high throughout the period, with a moderate dependence on imports, showing an adaptable economy. The conclusions suggest that in order to maintain this stability, the European Union must continue to develop balanced economic and environmental policies that support the sustainable use of biomass and contribute to the energy transition and environmental objectives.

Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that disrupts the regulation of a person’s sleep–wake cycle, leading to significant challenges in daily functioning. It is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden muscle weakness (cataplexy), sleep paralysis, and vivid hypnagogic hallucinations. A literature search was conducted in different databases to identify relevant studies on various aspects of narcolepsy. The main search terms included “narcolepsy”, “excessive daytime sleepiness”, “cataplexy”, and related terms. The search was limited to studies published until May 2023. This literature review aims to provide an overview of narcolepsy, encompassing its causes, diagnosis, treatment options, impact on individuals’ lives, prevalence, and recommendations for future research. The review reveals several important findings regarding narcolepsy: 1. the classification of narcolepsy—type 1 narcolepsy, previously known as narcolepsy with cataplexy, and type 2 narcolepsy, also referred to as narcolepsy without cataplexy; 2. the genetic component of narcolepsy and the complex nature of the disorder, which is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, disrupted sleep patterns, and potential impacts on daily life activities and social functioning; and 3. the important implications for clinical practice in the management of narcolepsy. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the different types of narcolepsies and their associated symptoms, as this can aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The review underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach to narcolepsy management, involving specialists in sleep medicine, neurology, psychiatry, and psychology. Clinicians should consider the impact of narcolepsy on a person’s daily life, including their ability to work, study, and participate in social activities, and provide appropriate support and interventions. There are several gaps in knowledge regarding narcolepsy. Future research should focus on further elucidating the genetic causes and epigenetic mechanisms of narcolepsy and exploring potential biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis. Long-term studies assessing the effectiveness of different treatment approaches, including pharmacological interventions and behavioral therapies, are needed. Additionally, there is a need for research on strategies to improve the overall well-being and quality of life of individuals living with narcolepsy, including the development of tailored support programs and interventions.

This article presents a comprehensive review on migraine, a prevalent neurological disorder characterized by chronic headaches, by focusing on their pathogenesis and treatment advances. By examining molecular markers and leveraging imaging techniques, the research identifies key mechanisms and triggers in migraine pathology, thereby improving our understanding of its pathophysiology. Special emphasis is given to the role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in migraine development. CGRP not only contributes to symptoms but also represents a promising therapeutic target, with inhibitors showing effectiveness in migraine management. The article further explores traditional medical treatments, scrutinizing the mechanisms, benefits, and limitations of commonly prescribed medications. This provides a segue into an analysis of emerging therapeutic strategies and their potential to enhance migraine management. Finally, the paper delves into neuromodulation as an innovative treatment modality. Clinical studies indicating its effectiveness in migraine management are reviewed, and the advantages and limitations of this technique are discussed. In summary, the article aims to enhance the understanding of migraine pathogenesis and present novel therapeutic possibilities that could revolutionize patient care.

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is classified in the interstitial lung disease group, being caused by inhalation exposure to sensitized allergen. Exposure to inhalant allergens is often significant in the workplace, being favoured by the long duration of time spent at work, air circulation, and alveolar hyperventilation during high physical efforts and technological processes involved. Identifying the causative agents of Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is not always easy and symptoms often appear insidiously, after long periods of exposure, which can delay diagnosis. In addition, diagnostic tests do not always provide rapid positive results or involve invasive explorations that cannot be applied or are not accepted by patients. We exemplify these findings with a case study of Hypersensitivity pneumonitis following exposure to fish products and derivatives. Although initiation of treatment and cessation of exposure may improve symptoms and reverse pulmonary interstitial changes, exacerbations and rapid progression are not usual developmental pathways. Worker sensitization, effective ventilation of workplaces, wearing protective equipment (especially protective masks adapted to the type and size of particles released) and regular assessment of employees are the main measures to reduce the risk of most respiratory diseases.

In the original publication [...]

Companies that think and tend towards sustainability and sustainable development must register and present certain levels of performance, so as to ensure the sustained support of all the company's stakeholders. The objective of the work is the synthetic presentation of the aspects related to the theories of the performance of companies listed on the stock exchange, the utility of stock indices, it proposes indicators to be taken into account by investors and other stakeholders. Also, specific stock market performance indicators are calculated for two Romanian pharmaceutical companies, emphasizing their role for stakeholders (like Earnings per Share, Dividend per Share, Equity per share or net asset per share, Stock market capitalization, Marketability, etc), starting from the information published in the annual financial statements (submitted to the competent ministry), as well as the stock market quotations. Unfortunately for stakeholders, companies present and publish information favourable to their image, which is sometimes considered unrealistic and superficial. The conclusions of the paper summarize the importance of standardizing the presentation of the performance indicators of the companies, in order to ensure a faithful image of the company, as well as the success of an existing or potential investment.

The present study aims to assess the sustainability of bioenergy potential from agriculture in the European Union in the period 2012–2021, with a particular focus on material flow and emissions management, bioenergy and recycling impacts, while assessing the potential of bioenergy from agriculture and analyzing the degree of self-sufficiency and import dependency in the biomass economy. While biomass has significant potential in the EU energy transition, its use is accompanied by challenges related to sustainability, carbon neutrality, efficiency and economic viability. Using a quantitative approach based on official statistical data, this research tracked the evolution of biomass imports, exports, domestic extraction and consumption, providing a comprehensive picture of the stability and adaptability of the biomass economy in the European Union. The results indicate a steady increase in domestic extraction and a stability in consumption, reflecting a high capacity of the European Union to manage biomass resources; thus, the degree of self-sufficiency has been high throughout the period, with a moderate dependence on imports, showing an adaptable economy. The conclusions suggest that in order to maintain this stability, the European Union must continue to develop balanced economic and environmental policies that support the sustainable use of biomass and contribute to the energy transition and environmental objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the high prevalence of cerebrovascular diseases nowadays, acute ischemic stroke stands out, representing a significant worldwide health issue with important socio-economic implications. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are important milestones for the management of this multifaceted pathology, making understanding the various stroke-onset symptoms crucial. A key role in acute ischemic stroke management is emphasizing the essential role of a multi-disciplinary team, therefore, increasing the efficiency of recognition and treatment. Neuroimaging and neuroradiology have evolved dramatically over the years, with multiple approaches that provide a higher understanding of the morphological aspects as well as timely recognition of cerebral artery occlusions for effective therapy planning. Regarding the treatment matter, the pharmacological approach, particularly fibrinolytic therapy, has its merits and challenges. Endovascular thrombectomy, a game-changer in stroke management, has witnessed significant advances, with technologies like stent retrievers and aspiration catheters playing pivotal roles. For select patients, combining pharmacological and endovascular strategies offers evidence-backed benefits. The aim of our comprehensive study on acute ischemic stroke is to efficiently compare the current therapies, recognize novel possibilities from the literature, and describe the state of the art in the interdisciplinary approach to acute ischemic stroke. As we aspire for holistic patient management, the emphasis is not just on medical intervention but also on physical therapy, mental health, and community engagement. The future holds promising innovations, with artificial intelligence poised to reshape stroke diagnostics and treatments. Bridging the gap between groundbreaking research and clinical practice remains a challenge, urging continuous collaboration and research.

Music is a complex phenomenon with multiple brain areas and neural connections being implicated. Centuries ago, music was discovered as an efficient modality for psychological status enrichment and even for the treatment of multiple pathologies. Modern research investigations give a new avenue for music perception and the understanding of the underlying neurological mechanisms, using neuroimaging, especially magnetic resonance imaging. Multiple brain areas were depicted in the last decades as being of high value for music processing, and further analyses in the neuropsychology field uncover the implications in emotional and cognitive activities. Music listening improves cognitive functions such as memory, attention span, and behavioral augmentation. In rehabilitation, music-based therapies have a high rate of success for the treatment of depression and anxiety and even in neurological disorders such as regaining the body integrity after a stroke episode. Our review focused on the neurological and psychological implications of music, as well as presenting the significant clinical relevance of therapies using music.

This review delves into neuroimmunology, focusing on its relevance to multiple sclerosis (MS) and potential treatment advancements. Neuroimmunology explores the intricate relationship between the immune system and the central nervous system (CNS). Understanding these mechanisms is vital for grasping the pathophysiology of diseases like MS and for devising innovative treatments. This review introduces foundational neuroimmunology concepts, emphasizing the role of immune cells, cytokines, and blood–brain barrier in CNS stability. It highlights how their dysregulation can contribute to MS and discusses genetic and environmental factors influencing MS susceptibility. Cutting-edge research methods, from omics techniques to advanced imaging, have revolutionized our understanding of MS, offering valuable diagnostic and prognostic tools. This review also touches on the intriguing gut–brain axis, examining how gut microbiota impacts neuroimmunological processes and its potential therapeutic implications. Current MS treatments, from immunomodulatory drugs to disease-modifying therapies, are discussed alongside promising experimental approaches. The potential of personalized medicine, cell-based treatments, and gene therapy in MS management is also explored. In conclusion, this review underscores neuroimmunology’s significance in MS research, suggesting that a deeper understanding could pave the way for more tailored and effective treatments for MS and similar conditions. Continued research and collaboration in neuroimmunology are essential for enhancing patient outcomes.

In this review article, we embark on a thorough exploration of cannabinoids, compounds that have garnered considerable attention for their potential therapeutic applications. Initially, this article delves into the fundamental background of cannabinoids, emphasizing the role of endogenous cannabinoids in the human body and outlining their significance in studying neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Building on this foundation, this article categorizes cannabinoids into three main types: phytocannabinoids (plant-derived cannabinoids), endocannabinoids (naturally occurring in the body), and synthetic cannabinoids (laboratory-produced cannabinoids). The intricate mechanisms through which these compounds interact with cannabinoid receptors and signaling pathways are elucidated. A comprehensive overview of cannabinoid pharmacology follows, highlighting their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, as well as their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Special emphasis is placed on the role of cannabinoids in neurodegenerative diseases, showcasing their potential benefits in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. The potential antitumor properties of cannabinoids are also investigated, exploring their potential therapeutic applications in cancer treatment and the mechanisms underlying their anticancer effects. Clinical aspects are thoroughly discussed, from the viability of cannabinoids as therapeutic agents to current clinical trials, safety considerations, and the adverse effects observed. This review culminates in a discussion of promising future research avenues and the broader implications for cannabinoid-based therapies, concluding with a reflection on the immense potential of cannabinoids in modern medicine.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a sensitive neuropathy of the upper limb caused by chronic compression of the median nerve. The presented study focused on highlighting the value of morphological changes of the median nerve - shown by MRI in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome. The study group included 23 patients, adults, treated in the Plastic Surgery Clinic of the County Emergency Clinical Hospital in Constanta - prospective study. Magnetic resonance imaging allowed accurate measurement of the median nerve diameter and showed significant decreases in most cases, which suggested an advanced stage of the disease - morphological changes being corroborated with clinical ones. This imagistic investigation opens a new way in establishing the surgical indication, which is required in case of reduction of the nerve diameter by at least 1.5mm at the site of compression. The criterion of diameter decrease can be a benchmark in order to establish a therapeutic algorithm in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Among the modern theories of cultural systems and supersystems, dichotomous models occupy one of the most important places. Almost all recent theories of this kind represent variations and processing of the Marx-Engels division. The most important of these theories are those of A. Coste, Z. Weber, A. Weber, R. M. MacIver, W. Ogburn, F. S. Chopin, T. Veblen, M. Tugan-Baranovsky, and others. Even within the same culture, say sensitive, any of its main systems divides (sociologically) its own values into ‘values-purposes’ and ‘values-means’, into positive and negative, leading to a pyramid of values. In each class of sociocultural phenomena, not all its values are considered equal, but stratified in a hierarchical pyramid, starting with the negative and mediocre ‘values-means’ and ending with the final, supreme ‘means-purposes’. These authors support the dichotomous division of the total sociocultural world into two different supersystems. The common feature of all dichotomous theories is that, without any explicit distinction between sociocultural and conglomerate systems, they divide the total culture of all societies into two different classes, and claim that all phenomena, within each class, are interdependent and change within the same pattern, given that the patterns of change in each class are fundamentally different. All these considerations and empirical evidence show the injustice of dichotomous theories of progress and lagging behind. At best, they fall into the well-known mistake of elevating a particular fact to the rank of a universal rule.

Alarming statistics show that the number of people affected by excessive weight has surpassed 2 billion, representing approximately 30% of the world’s population. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of one of the most serious public health problems, considering that obesity requires an integrative approach that takes into account its complex etiology, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Only an understanding of the connections between the many contributors to obesity and the synergy between treatment interventions can ensure satisfactory outcomes in reducing obesity. Mechanisms such as oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and dysbiosis play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of obesity and its associated complications. Compounding factors such as the deleterious effects of stress, the novel challenge posed by the obesogenic digital (food) environment, and the stigma associated with obesity should not be overlooked. Preclinical research in animal models has been instrumental in elucidating these mechanisms, and translation into clinical practice has provided promising therapeutic options, including epigenetic approaches, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery. However, more studies are necessary to discover new compounds that target key metabolic pathways, innovative ways to deliver the drugs, the optimal combinations of lifestyle interventions with allopathic treatments, and, last but not least, emerging biological markers for effective monitoring. With each passing day, the obesity crisis tightens its grip, threatening not only individual lives but also burdening healthcare systems and societies at large. It is high time we took action as we confront the urgent imperative to address this escalating global health challenge head-on.

În constelația celor trei mari gânditori sociali de la sfârșitul secolului al XIX-lea și începutul secolului al XX-lea, poziția lui Vilfredo Pareto cu privire la rapoartele dintre sociologie, ca știință, și filosofie este una specifică, generând consecințe, cea mai semnificativă în schema unui portret idealist al consecințelor metodei pozitiviste în sociologie. Deoarece sociologul italian pare să prelungească aversiunea clasică care supraveghează pozitivismul în filozofie până când devine o atitudine obișnuită a muncii și, în același timp, atinge lungimile extreme în care filosofia o neagă, pe baza prerogativelor pozitive ale cunoașterii, supravegherea oricărui statut epistemologic.

Aim of the study The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of autofluorescence in localisation of oral mucosal lesions at risk of malignancy. Material and methods 72 patients with oral lesions were examined using conventional light and the Oral ID device, complementing the conventional light examination. Results The concordance between the conventional light (CL) examination method and the examination method using the device based on the fluorescence of the oral mucosa was 88.9% with a Kappa coefficient of 0.755 for the tongue localization, 84.7% with a Kappa coefficient with the value 0.627 for the cheek localization, 97.3% with a Kappa coefficient with the value 0.911 for the oral floor localization, 100% with a Kappa coefficient with the value 1 for the palate and alveolar ridge localization, 97.2% with a coefficient Kappa with a value of 0.819 for the lower lip location, 98.6% with a Kappa coefficient with the value of 0.793 for the upper lip location. The average concordance between the two examination techniques is 95.24% with a Kappa coefficient with an average value equal to 0.84.Conclusions The concordance between the two examination methods was good for all the sites considered in this study. The use of the visualization method based on florescence of the oral mucosa improved the detection of oral lesion with locations difficult to examine under conventional light.

With a higher incidence in developing countries, mainly affecting males, in a ratio of 3: 1 (men: women), brain abscesses are purulent collections encapsulated or not encapsulated in the brain parenchyma, which may have as a source, the hematogenous pathway, by contiguity or by direct trauma. Risk factors are lung abscesses, arterio-venous fistulas, immunodeficiency, chronic sinusitis / otitis or dental procedures. Most patients with bacterial brain abscess require surgical treatment for optimal therapy. The two available procedures are aspiration of the abscess after the placement of the burr holes or complete excision after craniotomy. A clinical case study was performed on a 22-year-old patient, hospitalized and treated surgically for multiple brain abscesses, in the Neurosurgery Clinic of the County Emergency Hospital, Constanta. The patient is known with chronic maxillo-ethmoido-sphenoidal sinusitis with multiple hospitalizations on the ORL department, for surgical evacuation of purulent secretions, transferring to our clinic after highlighting an interhemispheric subdural empyema and right parieto-occipital brain abscess, visible on MRI contrasting of brain. Surgery is performed, by right temporo-parietal craniotomy and evacuation of the purulent collection, the post-operative evolution being clinically and imagistically favorable, after adjuvant antibiotic therapy with Meronem, Vancomycin and Metronidazole.

Suicide and attempted suicide are a major cause of death worldwide, with the highest percentage being male at a young age. In Romania, suicide by shooting has a low incidence rate due to restricted access to firearms. A clinical case study was performed on a 27-year-old patient, hospitalized and treated at the Neurosurgery Department of the County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Constanta for a craniocerebral wound by shooting, following a suicide attempt. The patient was brought to the emergency department for a shot craniocerebral wound, with a submental entry point and a left frontal exit point. The patient's condition was good, he was conscious, cooperative, without neurological deficits present. Examination of the craniocerebral CT reveals left frontal intraparenchymal hematoma, small right frontal contusions, supratentorial subarachnoid hemorrhage, left frontal-parieto-temporal subdural hematoma blade and left facial and left fronto-parietal left hemimachial fractures, with comminution at the level from left frontal and maxillary hemosinus left frontaltemporal epicranial hematoma, bilateral submandibular subcutaneous emphysema and pneumocephaly. It is operated surgically, performing a scylectomy and repairing the dural defect with a favorable post-operative evolution.

Being one of the first dinosaurs discovered in Romania, Elopteryx nopcsai is a Paravian dinosaur species whose described material is mainly based on proximal femur fragments. All the known remains assigned to this taxon have been collected from the latest Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) deposits of the Hațeg Basin. A similar fragment was collected from the Nălaț-Vad locality and is herein described. It shares multiple similarities with specimens previously related to Elopteryx and fossils related to other taxa, such as Pengornithidae and Oviraptorosauria clades, mentioned herein. The tumultuous history of the systematic classification, its possible synonymy with other taxa, and some aspects regarding the paleoecology of this species are also included in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concepțiile despre sociologia generală sunt atât de variate încât cititorul poate deveni foarte confuz în timp ce citește o carte de sociologie. Unii sociologi se ocupă de anumite probleme, în timp ce alții nu se ocupă deloc de ele. Sau, de foarte multe ori, se ocupă doar de un singur aspect al problemelor. În prezentul articol am încercat să explicăm diferitele probleme de interes pentru cititor; în plus, nu am neglijat aspectul istoric al problemelor, deoarece am considerat că ar fi util să arătăm cititorilor modul în care au fost analizate în trecut și modul în care sunt analizate în zilele noastre, prin indicarea soluțiilor sugerate. Nu am dezvoltat nici o problemă de sociologie specială: ne-am ocupat doar de principiile sociologiei generale ca știință și de problemele societății în general, fără a insista asupra unui anumit tip de societate.