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The fifth generation (5G) marks an important advance in mobile network capabilities. When it comes to high data rates, capacity, spectrum efficiency, and availability, 5G mobile broadband goes above and beyond what was previously possible with standard mobile broadband. The construction of 5G networks is still in the planning stages. These 5G networks will create intelligent networked communication environments by connecting people, things, data, applications, and transport networks. Mobile networks have made it possible for customers’ mobile devices (such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and so on) to connect to the internet. A variety of distinct protocols will be required to take into consideration the various aspects that 5G possess. One of these is the transport protocol, which is intended to deliver extremely high data transfer rates up to 400 Gbps. The transmission control protocol (TCP) is one of the numerous protocols that are necessary for supporting 5G’s many capabilities. Our work focuses on the detection and analysis, on the downlink (DL) side, of the congestion of the transport layer in single- and multicell environments. For the purpose of the analysis, the following metrics were analyzed: physical resource blocks (PRBs), user throughput, cell throughput, cell edge user throughput, and delay. The work emphasizes the activation of the TCP slow-start algorithm using file transfer protocol (FTP) model two according to 3GPP standards.

Portable, custom-made electronic dynamometry for the foot and ankle is a promising assessment method that enables foot and ankle muscle function to be established in healthy participants and those affected by chronic conditions. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) can alter foot and ankle muscle function. This study assessed ankle toque in participants with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and healthy participants, with the aim of developing an algorithm for optimizing the precision of data processing and interpretation of the results and to define a reference frame for ankle torque measurement in both healthy participants and those affected by DPN. This paper discloses the software chain and the signal processing methods used for voltage—torque conversion, filtering, offset detection and the muscle effort type identification, which further allowed for a primary statistical report. The full description of the signal processing methods will make our research reproducible. The applied algorithm for signal processing is proposed as a reference frame for ankle torque assessment when using a custom-made electronic dynamometer. While evaluating multiple measurements, our algorithm permits for a more detailed parametrization of the ankle torque results in healthy participants and those affected by DPN.

The negative effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the musculoskeletal system include symptoms of fatigue and sarcopenia. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of COVID-19 on foot muscle strength and evaluate the reproducibility of peak ankle torque measurements in time by using a custom-made electronic dynamometer. In this observational cohort study, we compare two groups of four participants, one exposed to COVID-19 throughout measurements and one unexposed. Peak ankle torque was measured using a portable custom-made electronic dynamometer. Ankle plantar flexor and dorsiflexor muscle strength was captured for both feet at different ankle angles prior and post COVID-19. Average peak torque demonstrated no significant statistical differences between initial and final moment for both groups (p = 0.945). An increase of 4.8%, p = 0.746 was obtained in the group with COVID-19 and a decrease of 1.3%, p = 0.953 was obtained in the group without COVID-19. Multivariate analysis demonstrated no significant differences between the two groups (p = 0.797). There was a very good test–retest reproducibility between the measurements in initial and final moments (ICC = 0.78, p < 0.001). In conclusion, peak torque variability is similar in both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 groups and the custom-made electronic dynamometer is a reproducible method for repetitive ankle peak torque measurements.

5G is the next mobile generation, already being deployed in some countries. It is expected to revolutionize our society, having extremely high target requirements. The use of spectrum is, therefore, tremendously important, as it is a limited and expensive resource. A solution for the spectrum efficiency consists of the use of dynamic spectrum sharing, where an operator can share the spectrum between two different technologies. In this paper, we studied the concept of dynamic spectrum sharing between LTE and 5G New Radio. We presented a solution that allows operators to offer both LTE and New Radio services using the same frequency bands, although in an interleaved mode. We evaluated the performance, in terms of throughput, of a communication system using the dynamic spectrum sharing feature. The results obtained led to the conclusion that using the dynamic spectrum sharing comes with a compromise of a maximum 25% loss on throughput. Nevertheless, the decrease is not that substantial, as the mobile network operator does not need to buy an additional 15 MHz of bandwidth, using the already existing bandwidth of LTE to offer 5G services, leading to cost reduction and an increase in spectrum efficiency.

Visibility is a critical factor for transportation, even if we refer to air, water, or ground transportation. The biggest trend in the automotive industry is autonomous driving, the number of autonomous vehicles will increase exponentially, prompting changes in the industry and user segment. Unfortunately, these vehicles still have some drawbacks and one, always in attention and topical, will be treated in this paper—visibility distance issue in bad weather conditions, particularly in fog. The way and the speed with which vehicles will determine objects, obstacles, pedestrians, or traffic signs, especially in bad visibility, will determine how the vehicle will behave. In this paper, a new experimental set up is featured, for analyzing the effect of the fog when the laser and LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) radiation are used in visibility distance estimation on public roads. While using our experimental set up, in the laboratory, the information offered by these measurement systems (laser and LIDAR) are evaluated and compared with results offered by human observers in the same fog conditions. The goal is to validate and unitarily apply the results regarding visibility distance, based on information arrives from different systems that are able to estimate this parameter (in foggy weather conditions). Finally, will be notifying the drivers in case of unexpected situations. It is a combination of stationary and of moving systems. The stationary system will be installed on highways or express roads in areas prone to fog, while the moving systems are, or can be, directly installed on the vehicles (autonomous but also non-autonomous).

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) are widely used in different monitoring systems. Given the distributed nature of WSN, a constantly increasing number of research studies are concentrated on some important aspects: maximizing network autonomy, node localization, and data access security. The node localization and distance estimation algorithms have, as their starting points, different information provided by the nodes. The level of signal strength is often such a starting point. A system for Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) acquisition has been designed, implemented, and tested. In this paper, experiments in different operating environments have been conducted to show the variation of Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) metric related to distance and geometrical orientation of the nodes and environment, both indoor and outdoor. Energy aware data transmission algorithms adjust the power consumed by the nodes according to the relative distance between the nodes. Experiments have been conducted to measure the current consumed by the node depending on the adjusted transmission power. In order to use the RSSI values as input for distance or location detection algorithms, the RSSI values can’t be used without intermediate processing steps to mitigate with the non-linearity of the measured values. The results of the measurements confirmed that the RSSI level varies with distance, geometrical orientation of the sensors, and environment characteristics.

This paper advocates an improved solution for the real-time error detection of texture errors that occurs in the production process in textile industry. The research is focused on the mono-color products with 3D texture model (Jacquard fabrics). This is a more difficult task than, for example, 2D multicolor textures.

This paper aims to analyse the relation between the digitalization process and the performance of the labour market in the context of the pandemic. Thus, some relevant indicators were used to measure digital proficiency (individuals using the online tools for interaction with public authorities, for sending/receiving e-mails, for finding information about goods and services, for seeking health-related information, and for doing an online course), while the performance of the labour market was evaluated through the employment rate. The main findings are related to the confirmation of the intensification of digital skills during the pandemic, compared to the period before, the increase in digitalization based mainly on online education, as well as the demonstration of the fact that countries with a high level of digital proficiency have high employment rates, especially during the pandemic.

Freezing rain is a rare and extremely dangerous meteorological phenomenon, consisting of the fall of liquid precipitation, while the air temperature at ground level falls below 0oC, favoring the freezing of raindrops and forming an ice sheet on the surfaces on which they are deposited. In Romania, the areas affected by the freezing rain phenomenon undergo significant changes regarding the structure and composition of the forest vegetation. The main purpose of this work is to figure out how to manage the forest stands affected by the freezing rain identifying optimal solutions for ecological reconstruction and prevention of significant damages. For the research of the affected areas, we placed 7 experimental areas, having the size of 500 m2 each, all the trees that were in this radius were inventoried. In this research work we evaluate the presence of this phenomenon which was reported in the Stejarul Zalău Forest District, in 2014, then in 2017, but with a lower intensity. Out of a total of 1627.6 ha, 500 ha were affected by the freezing rain, most of them being surfaces with beech forest stands with a consistency of 0.9, having a high slenderness index. Following the results obtained, it was observed that the most affected trees were the youngest. These having a reduced diameter, thin branches and a high slenderness coefficient.

According to the latest PIF report on the protection of the financial interests of the European Union, in 2021 Romania reported to the European Commission fraud related to European projects worth 1.4 billion euros. The reported amount is quite impressive as it represents over 80% of the total amounts reported as being fraudulently obtained in 2021 by all member states, making Romania a true performer in this regard at the European level. Starting from these values, using descriptive statistics, the study analyzes the data reported by Romania in the last ten years, compared to the other EU member states, data extracted from the PIF Reports (2012-2021), trying to verify if Romania’s status as a champion in terms of fraud with European funds is fully deserved or circumstantial. Although the numbers show that Romania is indeed a performer in this regard, both in terms of value and the number of reported cases, these values must be viewed in context, as they are influenced by a wide series of factors, including reporting errors, the capacity and willingness of member states to detect irregularities, as well as the particularities of the awarding procedures and contracting periods. Also, in the end, the paper presents some recommendations for strengthening efforts to combat the phenomenon of fraud related to EU funds in Romania.

This state-of-the-art review explores the emerging field of regenerative hydrogels and their profound impact on the treatment of skin wounds. Regenerative hydrogels, composed mainly of water-absorbing polymers, have garnered attention in wound healing, particularly for skin wounds. Their unique properties make them well suited for tissue regeneration. Notable benefits include excellent water retention, creating a crucially moist wound environment for optimal healing, and facilitating cell migration, and proliferation. Biocompatibility is a key feature, minimizing adverse reactions and promoting the natural healing process. Acting as a supportive scaffold for cell growth, hydrogels mimic the extracellular matrix, aiding the attachment and proliferation of cells like fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Engineered for controlled drug release, hydrogels enhance wound healing by promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and preventing infection. The demonstrated acceleration of the wound healing process, particularly beneficial for chronic or impaired healing wounds, adds to their appeal. Easy application and conformity to various wound shapes make hydrogels practical, including in irregular or challenging areas. Scar minimization through tissue regeneration is crucial, especially in cosmetic and functional regions. Hydrogels contribute to pain management by creating a protective barrier, reducing friction, and fostering a soothing environment. Some hydrogels, with inherent antimicrobial properties, aid in infection prevention, which is a crucial aspect of successful wound healing. Their flexibility and ability to conform to wound contours ensure optimal tissue contact, enhancing overall treatment effectiveness. In summary, regenerative hydrogels present a promising approach for improving skin wound healing outcomes across diverse clinical scenarios. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the benefits, mechanisms, and challenges associated with the use of regenerative hydrogels in the treatment of skin wounds. In this review, the authors likely delve into the application of rational design principles to enhance the efficacy and performance of hydrogels in promoting wound healing. Through an exploration of various methodologies and approaches, this paper is poised to highlight how these principles have been instrumental in refining the design of hydrogels, potentially revolutionizing their therapeutic potential in addressing skin wounds. By synthesizing current knowledge and highlighting potential avenues for future research, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of regenerative medicine and ultimately improve clinical outcomes for patients with skin wounds.

Summary: Chronic infection with hepatitis delta virus (HDV) affects between 12-20 million people worldwide and represents the most severe form of viral hepatitis, leading to accelerated liver disease progression, cirrhosis and its complications, such as end-stage-liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. From the discovery of HDV in 1977 by Prof. Mario Rizzetto, knowledge on the HDV life cycle and mechanisms of viral spread has expanded. However, little is still known about the natural history of the disease, host-viral interactions, and the role of the immune system in HDV persistence. Diagnosis of HDV is still challenging due to a lack of standardised assays, while accurate viral load quantification is needed to assess response and endpoints of antiviral treatment. Until recently, interferon has represented the only treatment option in patients with chronic hepatitis delta; however, it is associated with low efficacy and a high burden of side effects. The discovery of the entry inhibitor bulevirtide has represented a breakthrough in HDV treatment, by demonstrating high rates of viral suppression in phase II and III trials, results which have been confirmed in real-world settings and in patients with compensated advanced liver disease. In the meantime, other compounds (i.e. lonafarnib, new anti-hepatitis B virus drugs) are under development to provide alternative or combined strategies for HDV cure. The first international Delta Cure meeting was organised in Milan in October 2022 with the aim of sharing and disseminating the latest data; this review summarises key takeaway messages from state-of-the-art lectures and research data on HDV.

The genetic variability of five populations of Quercus petraea originating from the Transylvania and Maramureș regions of Romania was investigated in this study to provide insights into the species’ adaptability, population dynamics, and potential for preservation in the face of environmental challenges. To achieve this, sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers, in conjunction with a set of 18 primer combinations, were employed. The outcomes of the analysis revealed a range of polymorphisms spanning from 69.78% to 85.75%. Additionally, the assessment of genetic diversity using Shannon’s information index (I) yielded values ranging between 0.2887 and 0.3955, while Nei’s gene diversity (He) exhibited a spectrum from 0.1833 to 0.2582. The analysis of genetic variability, conducted via molecular variance (AMOVA), unveiled that 9% of the genetic variation was attributable to differences among the populations, while a substantial 91% resided within the populations. A further investigation of the population structure revealed that the construction of a UPGMA dendrogram based on Nei’s genetic distances elucidated the presence of two principal genetic clusters, a finding that was reinforced by a Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA). The genetic diversity revealed by Quercus petraea using SRAP molecular markers offers promising potential for upcoming breeding programs to identify optimal genitors, facilitating the development of well-adapted oak populations in the Transylvania and Maramureș regions.